Prepare these delightful Orange-Glazed Crullers with your loved ones, as they make a perfect activity to enjoy with grandchildren or during gatherings. The make-ahead dough allows for convenient planning, making these treats a wonderful addition to any occasion. This recipe brings together a soft and flavorful dough with a tangy orange glaze, resulting in a delectable combination of textures and flavors.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 package (¼ ounce) active dry yeast
- ¼ cup warm water (110° to 115°)
- ¾ cup warm 2% milk (110° to 115°)
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- Oil for deep-fat frying
GLAZE:
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 teaspoon grated orange peel
PREPARATIONS:
- In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in water. Beat in the warm milk, softened butter, eggs, sugar, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Continue beating until smooth.
- Stir in enough of the remaining flour to form a soft dough. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to grease the top. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough overnight.
- Punch the dough down and divide it in half. Return one portion to the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll out the second portion into an 18×9-inch rectangle. Cut the dough widthwise into ¾-inch strips.
- Fold each strip in half lengthwise and twist it several times. Pinch the ends to seal the strips. Place the twisted dough on greased baking sheets. Repeat this process with the remaining dough. Cover the baking sheets and let the dough rise until almost doubled in size, approximately 35-45 minutes.
- In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat oil to 375°F (190°C). Fry the crullers, a few at a time, for about 1 minute on each side or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to turn the crullers. Drain the fried crullers on paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine the glaze ingredients: confectioners’ sugar, orange juice, and grated orange peel. Brush the warm crullers with the glaze.
YIELD:
- Makes about 3 dozen crullers
In conclusion, Orange-Glazed Crullers are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed while creating lasting memories with loved ones. These deep-fried sweets, made from a make-ahead dough, provide a fun and delicious activity that is perfect for gatherings or spending quality time with grandchildren. The combination of a soft and flavorful dough, twisted into unique shapes, and a tangy orange glaze creates a truly irresistible treat.
Crullers, derived from the Dutch word “krullen” meaning “to curl,” were brought to the United States by German settlers. They have since become popular snacks in both New England and the Midwest. The rich history behind these deep-fried treats adds an extra layer of appreciation when enjoying their deliciousness.
By following this recipe, you can create crullers that are light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. The make-ahead dough allows for easy planning, ensuring that you have freshly fried crullers whenever you desire. The orange glaze adds a zesty and tangy touch, perfectly complementing the dough’s richness.
Frying the crullers to a golden brown creates a delightful crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and tender interior. The glaze adds a glossy finish and an additional burst of citrus flavor. These crullers are best enjoyed warm, but they can be stored for a short time in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or as a fun activity with loved ones, these Orange-Glazed Crullers are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. So, gather your ingredients, roll out the dough, and enjoy the process of creating these delightful treats that have been enjoyed for generations.
