Elephant Ears Recipe

Introduction

Elephant ears are a delightful fried treat with a crispy exterior and a warm, fluffy inside. Coated in cinnamon sugar, they offer a perfect balance of sweet and spice that’s irresistible as a snack or dessert.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup warm water (or as needed)
• Neutral oil, for frying
• 2 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a soft dough forms. You may need slightly less than a full cup of water.
2. Step 2: Cover the dough with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 5 minutes.
3. Step 3: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into 6 equal pieces and roll each into a circle about 1/2 inch thick.
4. Step 4: Heat about 3 inches of neutral oil in a deep pot to 390°F (200°C). Fry each dough circle for about 1 minute per side until golden brown.
5. Step 5: Remove the fried dough and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
6. Step 6: Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. While the elephant ears are still warm, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar generously over each piece.
7. Step 7: Serve warm and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to maintain the oil temperature for crisp and evenly cooked elephant ears.
• Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for extra warmth and spice.
• For a savory twist, skip the sugar and sprinkle with garlic powder and grated Parmesan instead.

Storage

Elephant ears are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat briefly in a warm oven to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can 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 covered for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and frying.

What oil is best for frying elephant ears?

Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best for frying to achieve a crispy texture without overpowering flavors.

Elephant Ears Recipe

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 113 reviews

Elephant Ears are a classic, crispy fried dough treat sprinkled with a delightful cinnamon sugar coating. Perfectly golden and fluffy on the inside, these sweet snacks are quick to prepare and deliver a delicious, nostalgic flavor that’s great for any occasion.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 elephant ears 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup warm water (or as needed)

Frying

• Neutral oil (for frying, about 3 inches deep)

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 2 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Mix dough: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add warm water, mixing carefully until a soft dough forms. You may not need the entire cup of water.
2. Rest dough: Cover the dough bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 5 minutes to relax the gluten and make rolling easier.
3. Roll dough: Turn the rested dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each piece into a circular shape about 1/2-inch thick, ensuring even thickness for uniform cooking.
4. Heat oil: In a deep pot, heat about 3 inches of neutral oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 390°F (199°C), ideal for frying to achieve a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
5. Fry dough: Carefully place each dough circle into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 1 minute, or until the dough turns a deep golden brown.
6. Drain: Remove the fried dough and let it rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil, ensuring a light and crispy texture.
7. Coat with cinnamon sugar: While the elephant ears are still warm, sprinkle them generously with the cinnamon and sugar mixture. The warmth helps the sugar adhere and enhances flavor.
8. Serve immediately: Enjoy your fresh, warm elephant ears for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• You can adjust the thickness of the rolled dough based on preference, thinner will be crispier, thicker will be softer inside.
• Maintain oil temperature carefully for optimal frying; too low and the dough absorbs oil, too high and it burns.
• For easier rolling, lightly flour your rolling surface and rolling pin.
• Serving fresh and warm is key to enjoying the best texture and flavor.
• Use neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil for frying due to their high smoke points.

Keywords: Elephant Ears, Fried Dough, Cinnamon Sugar, Sweet Snack, Dessert