Step right up and get ready to indulge in a classic fairground delight—County Fair Elephant Ears! These golden, crispy pastries are a beloved staple at carnivals and fairs, but now you can recreate the magic in your own kitchen. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, fluffy treat, dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with your favorite toppings. Whether you're hosting a backyard gathering or simply craving a sweet snack, this recipe will transport you straight to the fairgrounds. Don’t miss out on the chance to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make delicacy that promises to be a showstopper!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar. Whisk the dry ingredients together until they are well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, large egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be slightly lumpy.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the batter rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the baking powder to activate and will result in a fluffier texture.
- While the batter is resting, heat oil in a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). You'll need enough oil to fully submerge the elephant ears, about 2-3 inches deep.
- Once the oil is hot, use a ladle or large spoon to scoop out a portion of the batter (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup) and carefully drop it into the hot oil. You can use the back of the ladle to spread the batter into a rough, ear-like shape.
- Fry the batter for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to carefully flip the elephant ear halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Once cooked, remove the elephant ear from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- While still warm, dust the elephant ear generously with powdered sugar. You can also add additional toppings like cinnamon sugar or chocolate sauce if desired.
- Repeat the frying process with the remaining batter, ensuring the oil temperature remains consistent. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning the elephant ears.
- Serve the elephant ears warm and enjoy your homemade County Fair treat!
Tips
- Let the Batter Rest: Allowing the batter to rest for 15 minutes is crucial. This not only helps the baking powder activate but also results in a fluffier texture that will make your elephant ears irresistible.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through; too cool, and your elephant ears will absorb too much oil. Aim for a consistent 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
- Shape with Care: When dropping the batter into the oil, use the back of a ladle to gently spread it into a rough ear shape. Don’t worry about perfection; the rustic look adds to the charm!
- Experiment with Toppings: While powdered sugar is a classic choice, feel free to get creative! Consider adding cinnamon sugar, chocolate sauce, or even fresh fruit to elevate your elephant ears to the next level.
- Serve Warm: These treats are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve them immediately after frying for a delightful experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 30mg
