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Elephant Ears Recipe

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★★★★★

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://thefoodrecipe.com/elephant-ears-recipe/