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Fried Dough with Vanilla and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 6 reviews
  • Author: Caroline
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A simple and delicious fried dough recipe featuring a lightly sweetened dough fried until golden brown and optionally dusted with powdered or cinnamon sugar. Perfect for a quick snack or treat, served warm with a crispy outside and soft inside.


Ingredients

Scale

Dough

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Frying and Serving

  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
  • Cinnamon sugar, for dusting (optional)


Instructions

  1. Mix dry ingredients. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt to combine evenly.
  2. Combine wet ingredients. In a separate small bowl, mix the milk with the vanilla extract until blended.
  3. Make the dough. Gradually pour the milk and vanilla mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a sticky dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add more milk one tablespoon at a time until it comes together.
  4. Knead the dough. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface and knead gently for about one minute to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
  5. Shape dough balls. Divide the dough into portions roughly the size of golf balls, rolling each into a smooth ball.
  6. Heat the oil. Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep pot or skillet and heat over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a candy or instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
  7. Fry the dough. Carefully lower a few dough balls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd. Fry each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until the dough turns golden brown.
  8. Drain excess oil. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried dough from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
  9. Repeat frying. Continue frying the remaining dough balls in batches, maintaining the oil temperature.
  10. Serve warm. Let the fried dough cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness and flavor.

Notes

  • The dough should be sticky but manageable with lightly floured hands and surface.
  • Use a candy thermometer to maintain the oil temperature accurately at 350°F to ensure proper frying.
  • Do not fry for too long; 2 to 3 minutes per side is sufficient to achieve golden brown and cooked-through texture.
  • Best enjoyed fresh and warm right after frying for optimal taste and texture.
  • Calories listed do not account for oil absorbed during frying or added sugar toppings.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg