Easy Cinnamon-Sugar Elephant Ears Recipe
Introduction
Elephant ears are a classic American treat that’s crispy, golden, and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. This easy recipe lets you enjoy homemade fried pastry that’s light, fluffy, and perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.
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. Gradually stir in the warm water until a dough forms, adding water slowly as you may not need it all.
- Step 2: Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to relax the gluten.
- Step 3: Roll the dough slightly and cut it into 6 equal pieces.
- Step 4: Roll each piece into a circle about ½ inch thick.
- Step 5: Heat about 3 inches of oil in a deep pot to frying temperature. Fry each dough circle until golden brown and slightly puffed, then flip to cook the other side.
- Step 6: Drain the fried dough on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Step 7: Mix together sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle this mixture over the warm dough pieces.
- Step 8: Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your homemade elephant ears!
Tips & Variations
- Use a candy thermometer to keep the oil between 350°F and 375°F for even frying without greasiness.
- Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the cinnamon sugar for a seasonal twist.
- If you want extra crispiness, roll the dough thinner before frying.
- For a savory version, skip the cinnamon sugar and sprinkle with garlic powder and Parmesan cheese after frying.
Storage
Store leftover elephant ears in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in a warm oven to bring back crispiness. Avoid storing in the refrigerator as this can make the dough tough and chewy.
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 for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and frying for best results.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. These oils will fry the dough evenly without imparting extra flavor.
PrintEasy Cinnamon-Sugar Elephant Ears Recipe
This Easy Elephant Ears recipe is a delightful homemade treat featuring crispy, golden fried pastry dough topped generously with cinnamon sugar. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, these elephant ears offer a sweet and satisfying indulgence reminiscent of classic American fair favorites.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 elephant ears 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups Flour
- ½ tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Baking Powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water
Other
- Oil for Frying (enough to fill 3 inches in a deep pot)
- 2 Tbsp Sugar
- 2 tsp Cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually stir in the warm water until a cohesive dough forms, adjusting the water quantity as needed.
- Rest the Dough: Allow the dough to rest for 5 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
- Shape the Dough: Roll the dough out slightly and divide it into 6 equal pieces. Then, roll each piece into a circle about ½ inch thick.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pot, heat oil to about 350°F (175°C), filling it to approximately 3 inches deep for frying.
- Fry the Elephant Ears: Fry each dough circle in the hot oil until golden brown and puffed slightly, about 1-2 minutes per side. Flip to cook evenly on both sides.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried dough from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar: Mix the cinnamon and sugar together, then sprinkle the mixture over the warm elephant ears while still hot to ensure the topping sticks.
- Serve: Serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture. Enjoy your delicious homemade elephant ears!
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature is correct to avoid greasy or undercooked dough.
- Do not crowd the pot when frying; fry in batches if necessary for even cooking.
- For a crispier texture, roll the dough thinner, but be careful as thinner dough fries faster.
- Leftovers can be reheated in an oven to regain crispness but are best enjoyed fresh.
- Adjust sugar and cinnamon quantities to taste for the topping.
Keywords: Elephant ears, fried pastry, cinnamon sugar, American dessert, easy sweet treat
