Inspired by Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, these French-style crullers are a tender, airy twist on the Dutch “crisp and crumbling cruller” served at the Van Tassel feast. Piping hot and coated in a buttery, spiced, rum-infused glaze, they’re irresistible—Ichabod Crane himself wouldn’t be able to resist!
Why You’ll Love These Crullers
These crullers combine a light, airy texture with the warm, comforting flavors of fall. The spiced choux paste pairs perfectly with a buttery rum glaze that can be made with dark, amber, or spiced rum. For a non-alcoholic version, simply substitute milk and a touch of rum extract. They’re ideal for brunch, dessert, or even a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients
Choux Paste:
- 1 cup flour
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp cloves
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup butter
- 4 eggs
- 6–8 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Buttered Rum Glaze:
- 1½ cups icing sugar
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp cloves
- 1½ oz rum (or milk + 1 tsp rum extract for non-alcoholic)
Instructions
1. Make the Choux Paste:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- In a saucepan, bring water and butter to a boil. Add the flour mixture all at once and stir rapidly until a smooth ball forms.
- Transfer to a stand mixer and let cool to room temperature.
- Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. The dough will be smooth and sticky.
2. Pipe the Crullers:
- Fit a pastry bag with a large star tip.
- Pipe 2-inch circles onto parchment paper. Cut the paper so each cruller rests on its own small square.
3. Make the Glaze:
- In a bowl, whisk together icing sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Add melted butter and rum, whisking until smooth. Cover and set aside.
4. Fry the Crullers:
- Heat vegetable oil in a wide skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Slide each cruller (with parchment) into the oil, then gently remove the parchment after 10 seconds.
- Fry 3–4 crullers at a time for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and puffed.
- Drain on a rack-lined baking sheet.
5. Glaze While Hot:
- Dip each cruller top-side down into the warm glaze. Twist to coat fully and transfer to a rack.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips & Tricks
- Use spiced or dark rum for a richer flavor.
- Warm the glaze slightly if it thickens before dipping.
- These crullers are best served the same day, while still warm and tender.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with coffee, cider, or hot chocolate for a cozy fall treat. Perfect for a Sleepy Hollow-inspired feast, brunch, or holiday dessert spread.
Inspired Menu from The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
- Pies: Toffee Apple Pie, Pumpkin Cheese Pie
- Donuts: Hot Buttered Rum Glullers, Peach Crisp Donuts
- Cakes: Gingerbread Stout Bundt, Spiced Mead Honey Cake
- Savoury: Cider Brined Roast Chicken, Cheesy Orzo Kale Stuffed Pumpkins
- Cocktails: Katrina Van Tassel’s Spiced Apricot Cocktail, Headless Horseman Burnt Honey Old Fashioned