Mardi Gras Fried Dough (Printer-friendly)
Golden fried dough pillows with powdered sugar offer a crispy, festive delight perfect for gatherings.
# What you'll need:
→ Dough
01 - 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
02 - 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
05 - 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ For Frying
10 - 4 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)
→ Topping
11 - 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
# Method:
01 - In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon of the sugar in warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
02 - Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla. Mix until combined.
03 - Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
04 - Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
05 - Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
06 - Punch down dough and roll out on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into 2 by 2-inch squares or diamonds using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
07 - Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large, heavy pot to 350°F.
08 - Fry dough pieces in batches without crowding for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until puffed and golden brown. Turn with a slotted spoon as needed.
09 - Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. While still warm, generously dust fried dough with powdered sugar on all sides.
10 - Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- These bring the festive energy of Fat Tuesday straight into your kitchen
- The dough comes together with ingredients you already have in your pantry
- Nothing beats the moment you bite into warm, sugar-dusted perfection
02 -
- I once forgot to let the dough rise properly and ended up with flat, tough crackers instead of puffy pillows
- Getting your oil temperature right is the difference between light, airy dough and heavy, grease-soaked disappointment
03 -
- A pizza cutter makes the quickest, cleanest cuts through the dough without dragging
- Sifting your powdered sugar directly into a mesh strainer makes for the most even, professional-looking coating