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Elephant Ears

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Elephant ears, also known as funnel cakes or pandowdy, are a beloved carnival treat that brings the joy of fair food right into your kitchen. These large, crispy fried dough discs have a delicate, airy interior and a crunchy exterior. The magic happens when they are generously coated in a warm mixture of cinnamon and sugar, creating an irresistible sweet and spicy flavor profile. Perfect for dessert after a hearty meal, a special weekend breakfast, or a nostalgic snack for kids and adults alike, this recipe uses simple pantry staples like flour, yeast, and milk. With just a bit of time to let the dough rise, you can enjoy freshly fried, homemade elephant ears that rival any roadside stand.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 15
Calories: 247.9
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description
Elephant ears, also known as funnel cakes or pandowdy, are a beloved carnival treat that brings the joy of fair food right into your kitchen. These large, crispy fried dough discs have a delicate, airy interior and a crunchy exterior. The magic happens when they are generously coated in a warm mixture of cinnamon and sugar, creating an irresistible sweet and spicy flavor profile. Perfect for dessert after a hearty meal, a special weekend breakfast, or a nostalgic snack for kids and adults alike, this recipe uses simple pantry staples like flour, yeast, and milk. With just a bit of time to let the dough rise, you can enjoy freshly fried, homemade elephant ears that rival any roadside stand.
Ingredients
  • 1 package (1/4 oz.) active dry yeast
  • 1 cups To 2 c flour
  • 1 cups Warm water (110-115 degrees) Oil for deep-fat frying
  • 1 cups Warm milk (110-115 degrees) TOPPING:
  • 3 tablespoons Sugar
  • 1 cups Sugar
  • 1 tablespoons Salt (yes, Tbsp.) 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
  • 3 tablespoons Shortening
Directions
  1. 1
    In a large bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. 2
    Add the warm milk, sugar, salt, and shortening to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
  3. 3
    Gradually stir in the flour until a soft, sticky dough forms.
  4. 4
    Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. 5
    Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
  6. 6
    While the dough rises, heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 375&# 194;°F (190ðC).
  7. 7
    In a shallow bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar for the topping.
  8. 8
    Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8-10 equal pieces.
  9. 9
    On a floured surface, roll each piece of dough into a thin, large circle, approximately 10-12 inches in diameter.
  10. 10
    Carefully slide one dough circle into the hot oil and fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and puffed.
  11. 11
    Remove from oil and drain briefly on paper towels.
  12. 12
    Immediately sprinkle the hot elephant ear generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture while still warm.
  13. 13
    Repeat with remaining dough and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 15

Amount Per Serving
Calories 247.9kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 12.6g20%
Saturated Fat 4.4g23%
Cholesterol 1.2mg1%
Sodium 14781.5mg616%
Total Carbohydrate 30.4g11%
Dietary Fiber 1.5g6%
Sugars 14.4g
Protein 4.5g9%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: elephant ears, fried dough, cinnamon sugar, carnival food, funnel cake, deep fried, yeast dough, dessert, snack, fair food, homemade, sweet treat, crispy, fluffy, comfort food, vegetarian, party food, breakfast
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/elephant-ears/