📝 About This Recipe
Transport yourself to the vibrant atmosphere of a summer carnival with these iconic, hand-stretched Elephant Ears. This classic fast-food dessert features a pillowy, yeast-risen dough fried to a perfect golden crisp and dusted with a generous layer of cinnamon sugar. Each bite offers a nostalgic contrast between the warm, airy interior and the sweet, crunchy exterior that has made this a midway favorite for generations.
🥗 Ingredients
The Yeast Starter
- 1.5 cups Warm Water (between 105°F and 115°F)
- 2.25 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (one standard packet)
- 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar (to feed the yeast)
The Dough
- 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt (fine sea salt preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Milk Powder (adds richness and tenderness)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Shortening (melted and cooled slightly)
Frying and Topping
- 1 quart Vegetable Oil (for deep frying)
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (for the coating)
- 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (high quality Ceylon or Saigon)
- 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar (optional for dusting)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and the active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and fragrant.
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2
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, salt, and milk powder.
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3
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture along with the melted vegetable shortening.
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4
Using a dough hook or a sturdy wooden spoon, mix until a shaggy dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium-low speed for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
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5
Lightly grease a clean bowl with oil. Place the dough inside, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
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6
While the dough rises, prepare the topping by mixing 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon in a wide, shallow dish. Set aside.
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7
Gently punch down the risen dough to release air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 8 equal-sized balls.
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8
In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Use a candy thermometer to ensure accuracy.
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9
Take one dough ball and flatten it with your hands. Stretch it outward into a thin, irregular circle or oval about 6-8 inches wide. The center should be thinner than the edges.
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10
Carefully slide the stretched dough into the hot oil. Fry for about 1-2 minutes on the first side until it puffs up and the bottom is a deep golden brown.
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11
Use tongs to flip the dough carefully. Fry for another 1 minute on the second side until evenly colored.
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12
Remove the fried dough from the oil and let it drain for just 10 seconds on a wire rack or paper towels.
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13
While still very hot, press both sides of the dough into the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well-coated. Repeat with the remaining dough balls.
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14
Serve immediately while warm for the best texture and flavor.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always use a thermometer to maintain the oil at 375°F; if the oil is too cold, the dough will be greasy, and if too hot, it will burn before cooking through. Stretch the dough as thin as possible without tearing it to achieve those signature crispy bubbles and ridges. For an extra-tender dough, you can substitute the water with warm whole milk and omit the milk powder. Don't crowd the pan; fry only one or two pieces at a time to keep the oil temperature stable. If the cinnamon sugar isn't sticking, lightly brush the fried dough with a tiny bit of melted butter before coating.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of warm apple compote or salted caramel sauce for dipping. Pair with a cold glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade to cut through the sweetness. Top with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream while the dough is still hot for a 'mode' experience. Offer a variety of toppings like Nutella, strawberry jam, or honey for a customizable dessert bar. Enjoy alongside a hot cup of black coffee or a spicy chai latte.