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Easy Cinnamon-Sugar Elephant Ears Recipe

4.8 from 150 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. Rest the Dough: Allow the dough to rest for 5 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
  3. 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.
  4. Heat the Oil: In a deep pot, heat oil to about 350°F (175°C), filling it to approximately 3 inches deep for frying.
  5. 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.
  6. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried dough from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  7. 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.
  8. 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