Are you a sweet tooth or a savory fan? Either way, we’ve got you covered with these 18 crispy fried dough recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic donuts and churros to beignets and funnel cakes, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and indulgent or savory and satisfying, our collection of crispy fried dough recipes has got you covered. We’ve included a mix of traditional favorites and modern twists to keep things interesting, so whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to try something new, there’s sure to be something on this list that catches your eye.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular and delicious crispy fried dough recipes out there, from classic homemade donuts to savory fried dough bites. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started and see which recipe will become your new favorite!
Classic Homemade Donuts
Start your day with a sweet treat by making these soft and fluffy homemade donuts from scratch. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked donuts in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth after each addition.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
5. Once hot, use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop the dough into the oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Fry for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffed up.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the size of the donuts)
Easy Churros with Chocolate Sauce
These classic Spanish treats are easier than ever to make at home, thanks to this simple recipe. Pair them with a rich chocolate sauce for the ultimate dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of churro dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting
– Chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
– Heavy cream or half-and-half
– Vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. Fry the churro dough according to package instructions, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Drain excess oil on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar.
4. Melt chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate with heavy cream or half-and-half in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
5. Stir until smooth, then add vanilla extract if desired.
6. Serve warm churros with the rich chocolate sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fluffy Beignets with Powdered Sugar
Treat your taste buds to a classic Southern delight! These soft and airy beignets are drizzled with powdered sugar, making them irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, and salt.
3. Gradually add warm water, sugar, milk, and eggs, whisking until smooth.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes or until it becomes elastic.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C) again. Punch down the dough and fry beignets in batches, cooking for 2 minutes on each side.
7. Drain excess oil and dust with powdered sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch
Golden Fried Dough Balls (Zeppole)
These crispy, sweet, and airy fried dough balls are a beloved Italian tradition. Perfect for festivals or as a special treat, Zeppole are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add sugar, milk, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
3. Cover and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil (about 1/4 cup each).
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffed up.
7. Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total frying time.
Crispy Fried Dough Twists
Crispy Fried Dough Twists Recipe
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these crispy fried dough twists, perfect as a snack or dessert. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying the crunchy goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add in the warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a long rope shape.
6. Twist the rope into a spiral shape, tucking the ends under the twist to secure.
7. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to about 375°F (190°C).
8. Fry the twists in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
9. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Funnel Cakes with Berries
Sweet Funnel Cakes with Berries Recipe
Get ready to indulge in a classic fairground treat with a fruity twist! Sweet funnel cakes are a staple at any carnival or festival, and by adding fresh berries, you’ll elevate this sweet delight to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or any combination)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add granulated sugar, milk, and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients; whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a deep frying pan with about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop the batter into the hot oil in small, circular motions.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffed up.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and top with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Savory Fried Dough with Garlic Butter
Elevate your snack game with this crispy, buttery, and aromatic treat that’s perfect for a quick indulgence or as a side to your favorite soups or salads.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired size.
4. Roll out each piece into a thin sheet (about 1/8 inch thick).
5. Fry the dough in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Mix melted butter with garlic and brush onto fried dough while still warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Cider Donut Holes
These bite-sized donuts are infused with the warmth of apple cider and topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar coating, making them the perfect fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– Confectioners’ sugar and cinnamon for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add apple cider and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until smooth.
6. Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop the dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd.
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and sprinkle with cinnamon.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Fried Dough Sticks with Cinnamon Sugar
These crispy, sweet, and irresistible fried dough sticks are the perfect snack or dessert to satisfy your cravings. With a simple recipe and minimal ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the vegetable oil while stirring with a fork until the dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a long stick shape (about 1/4 inch thick).
6. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the dough sticks for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Mix the sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the fried dough sticks while still warm.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, including frying time.
Pumpkin Spice Fried Doughnuts
Get ready to fall in love with these crispy, fluffy, and aromatic Pumpkin Spice Fried Doughnuts, infused with the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Perfect for a cozy autumn afternoon or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
– Pumpkin puree or pumpkin spice for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger; mix until smooth.
3. Knead dough on floured surface for 5 minutes.
4. Cover and let rise in warm place for 1 hour.
5. Heat oil in deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Fry doughnuts in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil; dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: approximately 30 minutes
Cheesy Fried Dough Bites
Looking for a tasty treat that combines the best of crispy and cheesy? Look no further! These bite-sized morsels are perfect for snacking, movie nights, or as a fun addition to your favorite gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Cut into 1-inch squares and place on prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Brush each dough square with beaten egg and sprinkle with cheese mixture.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Fried Dough Bites!
Maple Glazed Fried Dough
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this irresistible maple glazed fried dough! This easy-to-make treat is perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired size.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the dough for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffed.
6. Remove the fried dough from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of warm water.
8. Brush the maple glaze over the fried dough, while still warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Fried Dough with Honey and Nuts
Sweet Fried Dough with Honey and Nuts Recipe
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this simple yet indulgent recipe, combining crispy fried dough with the richness of honey and crunch of nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey, for serving
– Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work well), for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add milk to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the hot oil, frying for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove fried dough from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve warm, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (depending on frying time)
Lemon Curd-Filled Fried Dough
Elevate your fried dough game with a tangy twist: filling it with a zesty lemon curd! This sweet and savory treat is perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Lemon curd (store-bought or homemade, about 1/2 cup)
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add oil and warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough until smooth, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired size.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
6. Place about 2 tablespoons of lemon curd in the center of each circle.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing edges to seal.
8. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to medium-high heat.
9. Fry the dough for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
10. Drain excess oil with paper towels and dust with powdered sugar (if desired).
11. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Spicy Fried Dough with Chili Oil
Experience the perfect combination of crispy, spicy, and savory with this simple recipe for Spicy Fried Dough with Chili Oil. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, this treat is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chili oil (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped scallions, and/or grated ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cut the dough into small pieces and flatten each piece slightly.
5. Fry the dough in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
6. Remove from oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Brush with chili oil while still warm.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped scallions, and/or grated ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana-Stuffed Fried Dough
This sweet and indulgent treat combines the warmth of fried dough with the natural sweetness of bananas. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, and salt.
2. Gradually add sugar and milk, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
3. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the oil, about 1/4 cup each.
5. Flatten each ball slightly with a spatula to create room for the banana filling.
6. Place a slice of banana in the center of each dough circle.
7. Fold the dough over the banana and press edges together to seal.
8. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
9. Drain excess oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Red Bean Paste Fried Dough
This traditional Asian dessert combines the nutty flavor of red bean paste with crispy fried dough, perfect for a sweet treat or snack. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create these addictive treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/2 cup red bean paste (available in most Asian grocery stores)
– Optional: sesame seeds or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
2. Gradually add water to form a dough. Knead until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the dough balls until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Serve fried dough warm with red bean paste spread on top. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Dough with Caramel Drizzle
This classic fairground treat gets a sweet upgrade with a drizzle of rich caramel sauce. Perfect for satisfying your cravings, these crispy fried dough bites are easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
3. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., strips, circles).
5. Fry in hot oil for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels.
7. Drizzle with caramel sauce and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the crispy, golden goodness of fried dough with these 18 mouthwatering recipes. From classic donuts and churros to savory twists and sweet treats, there’s something for every palate. Discover how to make fluffy beignets, golden zeppole, and crispy fried dough balls, as well as more unique flavors like pumpkin spice and lemon curd-filled. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends. So go ahead, get creative, and fry up some fun!