Mardi Gras Fried Dough (Print Version)
Golden, crisp fried dough squares dusted with sugar for a festive New Orleans-inspired delight.
# What You Need:
→ Dough
01 - 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
02 - 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
03 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
04 - 3 cups all-purpose flour
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
07 - 1 large egg
→ For Frying
08 - 1 quart vegetable oil
→ Topping
09 - 1 cup granulated sugar (for dusting)
# How To Make:
01 - Dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon of the sugar in the warm milk. Let stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
02 - Whisk together the flour, remaining 1 tablespoon sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
03 - Add the melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture to the flour. Mix until a dough forms.
04 - Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
05 - Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
06 - Punch down the dough. Roll out on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into 2-inch squares or strips.
07 - Heat oil to 350°F in a deep pot or fryer.
08 - Fry dough pieces in batches for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown and puffed.
09 - Remove with a slotted spoon and drain briefly on paper towels. While still warm, toss generously in granulated sugar.
10 - Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- Frying dough at home feels like a celebration waiting to happen
- The ingredients are humble staples you probably already have
02 -
- Oil temperature matters more than almost anything else
- Dough that is too thick will stay raw in the middle
03 -
- Keep finished pieces warm in a 200 degree oven while frying the rest
- Do not overcrowd the pot or the oil temperature will drop too much