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Fried Dough Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 19 reviews
  • Author: Amanda
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Fried Dough recipe offers a simple, classic treat featuring fluffy, golden dough balls fried to perfection and optionally dusted with powdered or cinnamon sugar for extra flavor. It’s a quick and delicious snack or dessert that can be enjoyed warm.


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 Topping

  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 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 until fully combined.
  2. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate small bowl, mix together the milk and vanilla extract to create the liquid mixture.
  3. Form dough: Gradually pour the milk mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a sticky dough forms. If the dough seems too dry, add more milk a tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together.
  4. Knead dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently knead for about one minute to ensure ingredients are well combined.
  5. Portion dough: Divide the dough into smaller portions about the size of golf balls and roll each into a smooth ball.
  6. Heat oil: In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or skillet, heat approximately 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), using a candy or instant-read thermometer.
  7. Fry dough: Carefully place a few dough balls into the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Drain excess oil: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove fried dough and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
  9. Repeat frying: Continue frying the remaining dough balls until all are cooked.
  10. Serve: Allow the fried dough to cool slightly. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar, then serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • The dough should be sticky but manageable; flour your hands and surface as needed to prevent sticking.
  • Using a candy thermometer is essential to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for evenly cooked dough.
  • Do not overcrowd the pot when frying to avoid lowering the oil temperature and uneven cooking.
  • Frying time is short—about 2 to 3 minutes per side—so watch closely to avoid overcooking or burning.
  • This fried dough is best served fresh and warm for optimal taste and texture.
  • Calories listed do not account for oil absorbed during frying or any additional sugar dusting.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg