Introduction to Homemade Elephant Ears
If you’ve ever been to a fair, you’ve likely seen the tantalizing fried dough known as elephant ears. This classic treat is crispy, buttery, and sprinkled with a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. In this elephant ears recipe, we’ll recreate that delicious flavor and texture right in your own kitchen. These treats are perfect for a cozy night in, a family gathering, or any time you’re craving something sweet and nostalgic.
Ingredients for the Cinnamon Sugar Fried Dough
To make these delicious homemade elephant ears, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup milk (whole or 2% recommended)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
These ingredients are easy to find and will come together to make a delicious fried dough dessert that tastes just like the ones from the fair.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Fried Dough Dessert
Creating this easy elephant ears recipe is simple. Follow these steps to make your own crispy, cinnamon-sugar treats at home.
Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the melted butter and milk, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Divide and Roll the Dough
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a thin circle, about 1/4 inch thick. The dough should be thin but not transparent.
Heat the Oil
- In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
Fry the Dough
- Carefully place one piece of dough into the hot oil. Fry for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Use tongs to remove the fried dough from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the topping.
- While the dough is still warm, dredge it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Repeat these steps with the remaining pieces of dough, and enjoy your warm, sweet cinnamon sugar fried dough!
Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry Elephant Ears
To make sure your elephant ears turn out perfectly every time, here are some tips:
- Roll the Dough Thin: The thinner you roll the dough, the crispier your elephant ears will be. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick.
- Monitor the Oil Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the dough will cook too quickly on the outside while remaining doughy on the inside. Use a thermometer to keep it at a steady 350°F.
- Use Fresh Oil: Reusing oil can impact the flavor and crispiness of the dough. Fresh oil will give you the best results.
For more delicious fair food-inspired treats, try this Crispy Air Fryer Funnel Cake Recipe for a tasty twist on another classic.
Delicious Variations on the Easy Fair Food Recipes
One of the best things about elephant ears is that they’re easy to customize. Here are some variations to try:
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the warm elephant ears for an extra indulgent treat.
- Caramel Coated: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top of the cinnamon sugar coating.
- Fruit Topping: Top your elephant ears with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or any fruit of your choice.
These variations add a fun twist to the classic fried dough dessert, making it even more enjoyable!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making homemade elephant ears is simple, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcrowding the Pan: Fry only one or two pieces at a time. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and can make the dough soggy.
- Frying at Low Temperature: If the oil is too cool, the dough will absorb excess oil and become greasy. Always check the temperature before frying.
- Skipping the Drain Step: Let the fried dough rest on paper towels before coating it with cinnamon sugar to remove any excess oil.
Avoiding these mistakes will ensure you get crispy, delicious elephant ears every time.
Serving Suggestions for Your Elephant Ears Recipe
These puff pastry elephant ears are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of toppings:
- Ice Cream: Serve warm elephant ears with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
- Fruit Compote: A spoonful of warm fruit compote, such as cherry or apple, adds a tangy-sweet flavor that complements the cinnamon sugar.
- Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra-special presentation.
With these serving ideas, your elephant ears will be a hit, no matter the occasion.
FAQ About Elephant Ears Recipe
1. Can I make this elephant ears recipe with puff pastry?
Yes, you can use puff pastry for a quicker version. Simply roll it thin, cut into pieces, and fry as directed.
2. Can I bake the elephant ears instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown, for a lighter version.
3. Can I make these elephant ears in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F and cook each piece for 4-5 minutes until crispy.
4. What’s the best oil for frying elephant ears?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work well due to their high smoke points.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to crisp them back up.
6. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying.
7. Are elephant ears the same as funnel cakes?
While both are fried dough desserts, elephant ears are flat and crispy, whereas funnel cakes are made with a batter and are light and airy.
8. How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes about 8 large elephant ears, depending on the size of each piece of dough.
Conclusion
With this easy recipe, you can enjoy the taste of the fair right at home. These homemade elephant ears are crispy, sweet, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re looking for a fun dessert or a nostalgic treat, this cinnamon sugar fried dough is sure to satisfy. So grab your ingredients, heat up the oil, and enjoy a batch of delicious elephant ears with friends and family!