Crispy, Buttery, and Dusted with Cinnamon Sugar – Just Like the Fair!
Kitchies! Let’s talk about pure nostalgia—those crispy, golden, cinnamon-sugar-coated Elephant Ears that you can’t resist at the fair. The smell alone takes me back to childhood summers, walking through the carnival, gripping a warm, flaky pastry, and licking cinnamon sugar off my fingers. But guess what? You don’t have to wait for the fair to come to town!
Homemade Elephant Ears are ridiculously easy to make, and they taste even better when fresh out of your own kitchen. Crispy on the outside, soft in the middle, and covered in a perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar, these pastries are pure magic. Whether you’re making them for a fun weekend treat or a cozy family brunch, this recipe will have everyone coming back for more!
Why You’ll Love These Homemade Elephant Ears
✔️ Crispy, buttery, and perfectly golden brown
✔️ Simple ingredients—nothing fancy needed!
✔️ No yeast, no rising time—ready in under 30 minutes
✔️ A fair-food favorite made in your own kitchen
✔️ Pairs perfectly with coffee, hot chocolate, or just on their own!
Cuisine: American | Servings: 6-8
Tips for the Best Elephant Ears
✔️ Roll the dough thin—this gives you that signature crispy texture!
✔️ Fry at the right temperature—too low, and they’ll be greasy; too high, and they’ll burn.
✔️ Coat while warm—the cinnamon sugar sticks best to hot pastries.
✔️ Use real butter for brushing—it enhances the flavor and gives extra crispiness.
Substitutions and Variations
- No whole milk? Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Want a twist? Try adding nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for extra warmth.
- Feeling indulgent? Drizzle with honey, caramel, or chocolate sauce!
- Savory option? Skip the sugar and brush with garlic butter and parmesan cheese.
Make a Healthier Version
- Bake instead of fry: Brush with butter and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Use whole wheat flour: For extra fiber and a heartier texture.
- Reduce sugar: Swap some sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute.
And there you have it!
Warm, crispy Homemade Elephant Ears that taste just like the ones from the fair—but even better because they’re made with love. Enjoy them as a sweet breakfast, a cozy dessert, or just because you deserve a treat!
🐘✨ Let me know how they turn out!
Relevant Categories:
Desserts, Fried Treats, Fair Food, Quick Snacks
Tags:
elephant ears, fair food recipe, homemade fried dough, cinnamon sugar pastry
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Store the dough wrapped in plastic in the fridge for up to 24 hours before rolling and frying.
2. Can I air-fry these?
Yes! Brush them with butter and air-fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway.
3. What oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil all work well!
4. Can I freeze Elephant Ears?
Yes! Freeze the fried, cooled pastries for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10 minutes.
5. What’s the difference between Elephant Ears and Funnel Cakes?
Elephant Ears are flat and crispy, while Funnel Cakes are made with batter drizzled into the oil for a more lacy, fluffy texture.
🐘 Enjoy your Homemade Elephant Ears and happy snacking! 🍩
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Homemade Elephant Ears
Description
Let’s talk about pure nostalgia—those crispy, golden, cinnamon-sugar-coated Elephant Ears that you can’t resist at the fair.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 2-3 minutes on a floured surface until smooth. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Roll and Shape
- Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a thin circle (about ⅛-inch thick)—the thinner, the crispier!
Step 3: Fry Until Golden
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry each dough circle one at a time, cooking for 30-45 seconds per side until golden brown.
- Use tongs to remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
- While still warm, brush with melted butter (optional) and generously sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
