Easy Cinnamon Sugar Elephant Ears Recipe
Introduction
Elephant ears are a classic treat that bring the fair right to your kitchen. Crispy fried dough dusted with cinnamon sugar makes for a simple, irresistible dessert or snack. This easy recipe lets you enjoy this sweet indulgence anytime at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 cup warm water
- Oil for frying
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Slowly stir in the warm water until a dough forms; you may not need all the water.
- Step 2: Let the dough rest for 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Roll the dough out slightly and cut it into 6 pieces.
- Step 4: Roll each piece into a circle about ½ inch thick.
- Step 5: Heat oil to about 3 inches deep in a pot over medium heat.
- Step 6: Fry each dough circle until golden brown and puffed, then flip to cook the other side.
- Step 7: Drain the fried dough on paper towels.
- Step 8: Mix sugar and cinnamon in a bowl and sprinkle over the warm dough.
- Step 9: Serve immediately while warm and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Use vegetable or canola oil for frying, as they tolerate high heat well.
- If you prefer, you can brush the fried dough lightly with melted butter before adding the cinnamon sugar for extra richness.
Storage
Elephant ears are best enjoyed fresh and warm. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat briefly in a warm oven to restore crispness, but avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it wrapped tightly for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and frying.
What oil temperature is best for frying elephant ears?
Heat the oil to about 350°F (175°C) for frying. This ensures the dough cooks through and becomes golden and crispy without absorbing too much oil.
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Easy Cinnamon Sugar Elephant Ears Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This easy Elephant Ears recipe features crispy, golden-fried pastry dough circles dusted with sweet cinnamon sugar. Perfect as a delightful dessert or treat, these elephant ears are quick to prepare and cook, offering a classic American fair treat experience right at home.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups Flour
- ½ tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Baking Powder
- 1 cup warm water (adjust as needed)
Topping
- 2 Tbsp Sugar
- 2 tsp Cinnamon
For Frying
- Oil for frying (enough to fill 3 inches in a deep pot)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Slowly stir in the warm water until a dough forms, adding the water gradually as not all may be needed. Mix until the dough is cohesive.
- Rest the dough: Let the dough sit for 5 minutes to relax the gluten, which will make rolling easier and the texture tender.
- Divide and roll out: Roll the dough out slightly and cut it into 6 equal pieces. Then, roll each piece into approximately ½ inch thick circles to ensure even frying and fluffiness.
- Heat the oil: Pour enough oil into a deep pot to measure about 3 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium heat to frying temperature, around 350°F (175°C), ideal for frying dough.
- Fry the dough circles: Carefully place the dough circles into the hot oil. Fry them until golden brown and they puff up slightly on one side, then flip to cook the other side evenly, about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the fried dough from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the excess oil and crisp up.
- Prepare cinnamon sugar topping: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon thoroughly.
- Apply the topping and serve: While the elephant ears are still warm, sprinkle them generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture, allowing it to stick and melt slightly. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- The warm water used for the dough should be around 100-110°F to help activate any leavening and make mixing easier.
- You can adjust the oil temperature if you find the dough browning too fast or too slow to ensure crispy and fully cooked elephant ears.
- For added flavor, you can brush the elephant ears lightly with melted butter before sprinkling the cinnamon sugar.
- Serve elephant ears immediately after frying to enjoy the crunch; they may become soggy if stored for long.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Elephant ears, fried dough, cinnamon sugar pastry, fair food, American dessert, easy fried pastry
