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Crispy Elephant Ears Recipe

Crispy Elephant Ears Recipe


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4.7 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 9 1x

Description

Signature elephant ears pastry brings nostalgic carnival memories to home kitchens. Simple cinnamon-sugar dough creates crispy, golden treats perfect for sweet afternoon snacking.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
  • ¾ cup (177 ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
  • 2 tbsps unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup (57 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Mixing Base: Thoroughly blend dry components in a large mixing bowl, guaranteeing uniform distribution of all powdery elements with gentle whisking motions.
  2. Wet Integration: Seamlessly fold softened butter, warm milk, and fragrant vanilla into the dry foundation, stirring until a smooth, consistent batter materializes with no residual dry pockets.
  3. Dough Development: Transfer mixture onto a lightly floured surface, kneading with deliberate yet tender movements to cultivate a silky, elastic consistency that springs back when touched.
  4. Relaxation Phase: Envelop dough with a damp cloth, allowing it to rest and mature for a precise duration, enabling gluten networks to stabilize and flavor complexity to deepen.
  5. Shaping and Transformation: Skillfully manipulate the rested dough, sculpting it into its intended form, preparing for the culminating baking process that will elevate its texture and golden-brown perfection.

Notes

  • Control Moisture Carefully: Ensure the dough remains slightly tacky but not overly sticky, which helps achieve the perfect crisp and golden texture of elephant ears.
  • Butter Temperature Matters: Use softened butter at room temperature to guarantee smooth incorporation and optimal dough consistency without creating lumps.
  • Rest for Elasticity: Allow the dough to rest covered for 30-45 minutes, which relaxes gluten and develops a more tender, easier-to-roll pastry.
  • Frying Precision: Maintain oil temperature between 350-375°F for even browning and preventing greasy, undercooked pastry; use a thermometer for accuracy.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 9
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 36 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg