elephant ear recipe
The Best elephant ear recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how it brings everyone together. My husband will sneak one while they’re still warm, and the kids love helping roll out the dough (even if it means a little extra flour ends up on the floor). It’s one of those recipes that feels special without being fussy, and it’s perfect for everything from after-school snacks to casual gatherings with friends. And let’s not forget the health benefits—using whole wheat flour or cutting back on sugar makes it a little lighter, so you can enjoy it without too much guilt. It’s comfort food at its best, and I always keep the ingredients on hand because you never know when a craving will strike.
Crispy Elephant Ear Pastries
A delightful fried or baked pastry known as elephant ears, featuring a light, flaky dough dusted with cinnamon sugar. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, these treats are quick to make and irresistibly crispy.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup ice water
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. -
2
Gradually add ice water and vinegar, mixing just until the dough comes together. Do not overwork the dough. -
3
Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and roll each into a thin, irregular oval shape (about 1/8-inch thick) to resemble an elephant ear. -
4
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking. For frying, heat oil in a deep fryer or skillet to 375°F (190°C). -
5
For baking: Place dough shapes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with melted butter and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. For frying: Fry each dough piece for 1-2 minutes per side until golden, then drain on paper towels. -
6
In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon. While the pastries are still warm, brush with melted butter and generously sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture. -
7
Serve warm and enjoy immediately for the best crispy texture.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Deep fryer or large skillet (optional for frying)
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crispy Elephant Ear Pastries Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Elephant Ear Pastries
1. What are elephant ears, and how do they get their name?
Elephant ears are a popular fried dough pastry, named for their large, flat shape that resembles an elephant’s ear. They’re also known as “beaver tails” in some regions and are typically dusted with cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, or other sweet toppings.
2. Can I make elephant ears without a deep fryer?
Yes! While deep-frying gives the best crispy texture, you can bake elephant ears in the oven for a lighter version. Roll the dough thin, brush with butter, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden. They won’t be as crispy but will still be delicious.
3. What’s the best dough to use for elephant ears?
A simple yeast-based dough works best—similar to pizza or bread dough. Some recipes use store-bought pizza dough or puff pastry for convenience, but homemade dough yields the best texture. Let it rise until doubled for light, airy results.
4. How do I prevent elephant ears from absorbing too much oil?
To minimize oil absorption, ensure the oil is at the right temperature (350–375°F/175–190°C) before frying. If the oil is too cool, the dough will soak up oil; if too hot, it will burn. Also, drain fried elephant ears on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.
5. What are some creative toppings for elephant ears?
Beyond classic cinnamon sugar, try drizzling with Nutella, caramel, or melted chocolate. For a savory twist, sprinkle with garlic powder, Parmesan, or everything bagel seasoning. Fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a dusting of matcha powder also make great toppings!