Easy Elephant Ears Recipe
Easy Elephant Ears are a delightful, crispy treat made by frying thinly stretched pizza dough and then generously sprinkling it with a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture. This simple recipe results in a warm, golden pastry perfect for dessert or snack time.
- Author: Dylan
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 elephant ears 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Elephant Ears Dough
- 1 package pizza dough (about 13.8 oz)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil), about 2 cups
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Prepare the Dough: Lightly flour your work surface and stretch the pizza dough as thinly as possible without tearing. Aim for a large, flat, round or oval shape about 1/8 inch thick to ensure crispy frying.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 2 inches of oil into a deep skillet or pan and heat to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry but not smoking.
- Fry the Dough: Carefully place the stretched dough into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip the dough gently and evenly.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried dough and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar: While the elephant ear is still warm, sprinkle a generous amount of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the surface. The warmth helps the sugar stick and create a sweet, crunchy coating.
- Serve Warm: Serve your elephant ears fresh and warm for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Stretching the dough evenly will ensure uniform cooking and crispiness.
- Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to maintain the oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F for optimal frying.
- You can adjust the cinnamon sugar ratio to taste or try adding powdered sugar for variety.
- Leftover elephant ears can be reheated briefly in an oven to regain crispiness but are best eaten fresh.
- For a dairy-free option, ensure your pizza dough contains no dairy ingredients.
Keywords: elephant ears, fried dough, cinnamon sugar dessert, easy snack, fair food