Fried bread dough is one of those irresistible treats that bring joy with every bite. Whether you know it as fry bread, funnel cake, or just good old fried dough, this crispy, golden delight is loved by many around the world. If you’ve ever wondered how to make fried bread dough at home, you’re in the right place! This article will walk you through the process step-by-step, with easy-to-follow instructions and tips to get that perfect crispy outside and soft inside every time.
What Is Fried Bread Dough?
Fried bread dough is essentially dough that is deep-fried until it puffs up and turns golden brown. It can be made with either yeast dough that rises or quick dough that uses baking powder. The result is a warm, fluffy, and slightly crispy bread that’s perfect as a snack or dessert. You can enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with cinnamon sugar, honey, or even savory toppings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a basic list of ingredients for a classic fried bread dough recipe:
– All-purpose flour (about 2 cups)
– Sugar (2 tablespoons)
– Baking powder (1 teaspoon) or yeast (1 tablespoon active dry yeast) if you prefer a yeast dough
– Salt (½ teaspoon to 1 teaspoon)
– Milk (around ¾ to 1 cup, warm)
– Egg (1 large, optional but adds richness)
– Butter (4 tablespoons, melted, optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying (enough for deep frying)
– Vanilla extract (optional, 1 teaspoon)
– Powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for dusting
You can adjust these ingredients depending on whether you want a quick bread dough or a yeast-risen dough.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fried Bread Dough
1. Prepare the Dough
For a quick dough (no yeast):
– In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
– In a separate bowl, mix the milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
– Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
– If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time.
– Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about a minute until smooth.
For a yeast dough:
– Dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm milk and let it sit until frothy (about 5-10 minutes).
– Mix in the flour, salt, melted butter, and egg.
– Knead the dough until smooth.
– Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for at least 2 hours or overnight until doubled in size.
2. Shape the Dough
– Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions.
– Flatten each ball with your hands or a rolling pin to about ¼ inch thickness.
– Don’t worry about making perfect circles; rustic shapes add charm and crispiness.
3. Heat the Oil
– Pour vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 2 inches.
– Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 350°F–375°F (175°C–190°C).
– Test the oil by dropping a small pinch of dough in; it should bubble vigorously immediately.
4. Fry the Dough
– Carefully place the flattened dough pieces into the hot oil, away from you to avoid splatters.
– Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and puffed.
– Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip and remove the fried bread.
– Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy
– Serve the fried bread warm.
– Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for a sweet treat.
– Alternatively, top with honey, jam, or even savory toppings like beans and cheese for a classic fry bread experience.
Tips for Perfect Fried Bread Dough
– Oil temperature is key: Too hot, and the bread will burn outside but stay raw inside. Too cool, and it will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature steady.
– Use a thermometer: If possible, use an instant-read or candy thermometer to maintain the right frying temperature.
– Let the dough rest: For yeast dough, patience during rising makes the bread lighter and fluffier.
– Keep fried bread warm: Place cooked pieces in a warm oven while frying the rest to serve them all hot.
Variations to Try
– Sweet fried dough: Add cinnamon and sugar to the dough or sprinkle on top after frying.
– Savory fry bread: Skip the sugar in the dough and top with taco ingredients or cheese.
– Stuffed fried bread: Fill dough pieces with fruit preserves or cheese before frying for a delicious surprise.
Fried bread dough is incredibly versatile and fun to make, perfect for family gatherings, fairs, or just a cozy weekend treat.
Fried bread dough is simple to make and utterly delicious. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can enjoy this crispy, fluffy delight anytime at home. Give it a try and watch your kitchen fill with the irresistible aroma of homemade fried bread!