Of course! Sugar-Coated Fried Pastries are a beloved treat across many cultures, known by names like Buñuelos, Loukoumades, Zeppole, or simply fried dough. They are light, fluffy, and irresistibly coated in cinnamon sugar.
Here is a classic, versatile recipe for making them at home.
Sugar-Coated Fried Pastries (Basic Buñuelos / Fried Dough)
This recipe makes about 20-25 pastries.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
· 2 cups all-purpose flour
· 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
· 2 teaspoons baking powder
· ½ teaspoon salt
· 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or vegetable oil)
· ¾ cup warm milk (or water)
· 1 large egg
· 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
· Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work well)
For the Coating:
· 1 cup granulated sugar
· 1-2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
· ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (for a classic coating) OR honey or maple syrup (for a different style)
Instructions:
- Make the Dough:
· In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
· In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
· Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon until a soft, sticky dough forms. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
· Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 15-30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to handle.
- Heat the Oil:
· Pour about 2 inches of oil into a heavy-bottomed pot, Dutch oven, or deep fryer. Heat the oil to 350°F – 365°F (175°C – 185°C). Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy. If you don’t have one, test by dropping a small piece of dough in; it should sizzle vigorously and rise to the surface without burning.
- Shape and Fry:
· Once the oil is hot, it’s time to shape the dough. You have two easy options:
· Option 1: Spoon Drop. Simply drop rounded teaspoonfuls of the sticky dough directly into the hot oil. This is the easiest method.
· Option 2: Shape with Wet Hands. Lightly oil or wet your hands to prevent sticking. Take small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon) and gently shape them into rough balls or patties.
· Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until they are puffed up and deep golden brown on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pot, as this will lower the oil temperature.
· Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the pastries from the oil. Let them drain on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or on a plate lined with paper towels.
- Coat the Pastries:
· Cinnamon-Sugar Method: While the pastries are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
· Buttered Cinnamon-Sugar Method (Rich & Classic): Brush each warm pastry with melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This helps the coating stick better and adds extra flavor.
· Honey Glaze Method (Greek Loukoumades style): Skip the sugar coating. Drizzle the warm pastries with honey or maple syrup and sprinkle with a little cinnamon.
- Serve:
· Serve immediately while they are still warm and deliciously crisp on the outside and soft on the inside.
Pro Tips for Success:
· Oil Temperature is Key: If the oil is too cool, the pastries will absorb oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they will brown on the outside before cooking through.
· Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing develops gluten, which can make the pastries tough instead of light and tender.
· Keep the Dough Simple: For an even quicker version, you can use canned biscuit dough or pizza dough! Separate the dough, cut it into small pieces, and fry as directed.
· Flavor Variations:
· Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough.
· Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy note.
· Fill them with Nutella or pastry cream after frying using a piping bag.
· Storage: These are best enjoyed immediately. They lose their crispness over time but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day. Re-crisp them in an air fryer or oven for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade, warm, sugar-coated delights! They are perfect for a special breakfast, dessert, or holiday treat.