Are you craving a crispy, golden-brown treat that's surprisingly easy to make? Forget complicated yeast doughs! This elephant ear recipe delivers all the deliciousness without the fuss. These giant, flaky fried pastries are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth, and they're much simpler to whip up than you might think. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is your ticket to homemade happiness. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this unbelievably easy, delicious, and satisfying dessert!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup cold vegetable shortening, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup ice water
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Cinnamon sugar, for dusting (optional: mix 1/4 cup sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in the cold butter and shortening using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Work quickly to keep the butter and shortening cold.
- Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix.
- Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a flakier final product.
Step 2: Roll and Cut
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a very thin, large rectangle (about 1/8 inch thick). The thinner you roll it, the crispier your elephant ears will be. If the dough becomes too difficult to handle, chill it for another 10-15 minutes before continuing.
- Cut the rectangle into large triangles or squares, depending on your preference.
Step 3: Fry the Elephant Ears
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature accurately.
- Carefully place a few elephant ear pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy elephant ears.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the fried elephant ears with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Dust and Serve
- While still warm, dust the elephant ears generously with cinnamon sugar. You can also drizzle them with honey or your favorite glaze.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy, sweet delight! These are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Elephant Ears:
- Keep it Cold: Cold butter and shortening are crucial for a flaky texture. Use ice water as well.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough will develop the gluten, leading to a tough final product.
- Thin is In: The thinner you roll the dough, the crispier your elephant ears will be.
- Monitor the Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is essential for even cooking and preventing burning.
Variations:
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder to the cinnamon sugar for a spicy kick.
- Chocolate Delight: Drizzle melted chocolate over the fried elephant ears instead of cinnamon sugar.
- Fruity Fun: Top with fresh berries and a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Nutritional Information (per elephant ear, approximate):
- Calories: Around 200-250
- Fat: Around 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: Around 25-30g
- Protein: Around 2-3g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion size. Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade elephant ears! They’re a perfect treat for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. This easy recipe ensures delicious results every time.