Description
This recipe recreates the classic fried dough treat from fairs, offering a delightful combination of crispy, golden exterior and soft, fluffy interior. Perfectly dusted with powdered sugar, this easy-to-make fried dough brings nostalgic carnival flavors right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ⅔ cup milk
For Frying and Serving
- Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)
- Powdered sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar thoroughly to create a uniform mixture.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Knead Dough: Pour in the melted butter and milk, mixing together with a fork until the dough starts to form. Transfer the dough to a clean board and knead it by hand for about 2 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Rest the Dough: Shape the dough into a ball and allow it to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to let the gluten relax.
- Divide and Roll Out: Cut the rested dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece out to about 3/8-inch thickness to prepare for frying.
- Heat Oil: In a deep pan, heat about 1 inch of oil to 375°F (180°C) over medium heat to ensure the dough fries evenly and gets crispy.
- Fry the Dough: Carefully place rolled dough pieces into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for approximately 1 minute until golden brown, flipping once halfway through cooking.
- Drain and Cool: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried dough and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Generously sprinkle with powdered sugar while still warm and enjoy this soft, crispy fair-style fried dough treat.
Notes
- Make sure the oil temperature is steady at 375°F to achieve the perfect crispness—too hot and the dough will burn, too cool and it will absorb excess oil.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan to maintain consistent oil temperature and even cooking.
- This dough can be flavored with a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Use a thermometer for accurate oil temperature; if unavailable, test with a small piece of dough to see if it bubbles and rises immediately.
- Fried dough is best enjoyed fresh but can be briefly reheated in the oven to restore crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
