Easy Cronuts Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving that perfect blend of flaky croissant and classic donut, this Easy Cronuts Recipe is basically your pastry daydream come true. Using simple shortcuts and foolproof methods, you’ll have golden, crispy cronuts that are soft inside, glazed to perfection, and generously filled with creamy vanilla pudding. Whether you’re baking for a weekend treat or looking to seriously impress your brunch guests, this recipe brings big bakery flavor right to your own kitchen—no pastry degree required!

Ingredients You’ll Need

What truly makes this Easy Cronuts Recipe so brilliant is how it transforms a handful of common ingredients into something spectacular. Each item brings a unique quality—think fluffy layers, luscious filling, and that irresistible sweet finish.

• Pillsbury Uncut Crescent Sheets: These provide the signature flakiness and buttery layers, but with zero fuss or complicated rolling.
• Vanilla Pudding Cup: This shortcut gives you a velvety-smooth filling without the hassle of making custard from scratch.
• Powdered Sugar: Essential for a thick glaze that sets beautifully and adds that glossy, sweet sheen.
• Vanilla: Just a touch boosts the fragrance and flavor of your glaze, making everything taste like a bakery treat.
• Milk: A little splash loosens the glaze just enough for easy drizzling.
• Vegetable Oil (for Frying): Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for the crispiest, most golden results.

How to Make Easy Cronuts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Frying Oil

Start by filling a heavy-bottomed pan with about two inches of vegetable oil. Set it over medium heat and use a kitchen thermometer to ensure it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is the sweet spot for getting your Easy Cronuts Recipe puffed up nicely without soaking up too much oil.

Step 2: Fold and Shape the Dough

Lay out the uncut crescent sheet and gently fold it in half, then fold it in half again in the other direction. This creates those coveted layers! Using a biscuit cutter, cup, or glass, cut out three-inch circles. Save the scraps, as you’ll gather and reroll them for an extra cronut or two.

Step 3: Cut the Centers

Take a small round cutter (about one inch) or the back of a piping tip and punch out the center of each larger circle. Don’t toss these mini rounds—they fry up into adorable little cronut holes that are just as tasty!

Step 4: Fry the Cronuts

Carefully lower your cronuts into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Fry each one for about ninety seconds per side or until they’re golden brown and puffed. Remove with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Let your Easy Cronuts Recipe cool fully before the next delicious step!

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

Whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla, and one tablespoon of milk until smooth. If the glaze seems too thick, add a splash more milk until it reaches your desired drizzling consistency.

Step 6: Fill the Cronuts

Once your cronuts have cooled, gently slice each one in half horizontally. Spoon about two tablespoons of vanilla pudding into the center, then replace the top. The creamy center is what truly sets apart this Easy Cronuts Recipe!

Step 7: Glaze and Set

Drizzle each filled cronut generously with your prepared glaze, letting it run down the sides. For the best result, allow the glaze to set before serving, though it’s totally understandable if you sneak a warm one straight away.

How to Serve Easy Cronuts Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your cronuts with a sprinkling of powdered sugar, a handful of colorful sprinkles, or even a dash of cinnamon. You can also shave a little chocolate or zest some fresh citrus peel over the tops for extra flair.

Side Dishes

Pair your Easy Cronuts Recipe with fresh fruit salad, a dollop of whipped cream, or a hot, frothy coffee. These treats are rich and satisfying, so simple accompaniments help balance the flavors and round out a brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile your cronuts high on a beautiful cake stand or arrange them in a basket lined with parchment paper. Try skewering cronut holes on sticks for a whimsical treat, or package individual cronuts in little boxes as edible gifts for friends and neighbors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any cronuts left (which, honestly, is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Line the container with a paper towel to keep them from getting soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze unfilled, ungarnished cronuts by letting them cool completely, then wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and storing in a zip-top bag. Thaw at room temperature and fill and glaze just before serving for maximum freshness.

Reheating

Bring refrigerated or thawed cronuts back to life with a quick zap in the microwave—about 8 to 10 seconds does the trick. If you prefer a crispier texture, a minute in a 350-degree oven also works beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use regular crescent rolls if I can’t find uncut sheets?

Absolutely! Simply pinch the seams together well before folding and cutting. The result will still deliver that classic Easy Cronuts Recipe texture and taste.

Do I have to fill them with pudding, or can I try another filling?

You can get creative with the filling. Try chocolate pudding, fruit preserves, lemon curd, or even whipped cream for your Easy Cronuts Recipe—whatever your sweet tooth desires!

How do I avoid the oil getting too hot or cool while frying?

Keep an eye on your thermometer and adjust the heat as needed to stay around 350 degrees. If you’re frying in batches, allow the oil to come back up to temperature before adding the next round.

Is the glaze necessary, or can I just dust with sugar?

The glaze provides a gorgeous, sweet finish, but you can absolutely keep it classic and dust with plain powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar instead!

Can I make the Easy Cronuts Recipe dough the night before?

Yes! Cut the dough into rounds and store them on a baking sheet, covered tightly with plastic wrap, in the fridge overnight. Fry fresh the next morning for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cronuts Recipe is pure joy in pastry form—quick, impressive, and totally crave-worthy. I hope you’ll give it a try and experience the magic for yourself. Happy frying, and may your kitchen be filled with sweet, flaky goodness!

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