Absolutely! Let’s refine the vegan cronut recipe further, focusing on simplicity, clarity, and flavor. This version will ensure you achieve that perfect flaky texture and delicious filling without overwhelming steps.
Ultimate Vegan Cronuts Recipe
Ingredients
For the Cronut Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk), warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup vegan butter (cold, cut into small cubes)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- Vegan Pastry Cream:
- 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Optional Toppings:
- Cinnamon sugar (1 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon cinnamon)
- Sprinkles or crushed nuts
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warmed almond milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to curdle slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the vanilla extract.
Mix the Dough:
- Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Add the cold vegan butter cubes and mix until incorporated. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Knead and Chill:
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes until smooth. Form into a ball, place in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for better flavor).
Step 2: Laminate the Dough
- Roll Out the Dough:
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
Fold and Layer:
- Take half of the remaining vegan butter (¼ cup) and spread it evenly over two-thirds of the dough. Fold the unbuttered third over the middle section, then fold the remaining third over that (like folding a letter). This creates layers.
- Roll out again into a rectangle and repeat this folding process two more times. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for another 30 minutes.
Step 3: Shape the Cronuts
Cut Out Shapes:
- Roll out the laminated dough to about ½ inch thick again. Use a large round cutter to cut out circles, then use a smaller cutter to remove the center to create rings.
Proof:
- Place cut cronuts on parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Frying
Heat Oil:
- In a deep pot or fryer, heat vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C).
Fry Cronuts:
- Carefully add cronuts to the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Make Pastry Cream Filling
Prepare Pastry Cream:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together almond milk, cornstarch, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 6: Fill and Glaze
Fill with Pastry Cream:
- Once cooled slightly, use a piping bag fitted with a round tip to fill each cronut with vegan pastry cream through one of the sides.
Prepare Glaze:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Glaze Cronuts:
- Dip each cronut in the glaze or drizzle it over them using a fork.
Add Toppings:
- If desired, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or other toppings while glaze is still wet.
Step 7: Serve
- Allow glaze to set for a few minutes before serving your delicious vegan cronuts! Enjoy them fresh for the best texture.
Tips for Success
- Chill Your Ingredients: Keeping your butter cold during lamination is crucial for creating flaky layers.
- Don’t Rush Proofing: Allowing your cronuts to rise properly ensures they’re light and airy.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add flavors like lemon zest or cocoa powder to your pastry cream for variety!
These vegan cronuts are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a delightful treat for yourself! Enjoy!
