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Fried Dough That Tastes JUST Like The One From The Fair Recipe

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4.4 from 3 reviews

This fried dough recipe captures the delicious, nostalgic taste of fair-style fried dough with a simple homemade dough that’s lightly sweetened and fried to golden perfection. Topped with a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s a quick and easy treat reminiscent of classic carnival and fair snacks.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • ⅔ cup milk

For Frying and Serving

  • Oil for frying (enough for 1 inch depth in pan)
  • Powdered sugar for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar thoroughly to ensure even distribution of leavening agents and seasoning.
  2. Add wet ingredients and knead dough: Pour in the melted butter and milk, mixing initially with a fork until a sticky dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured board and knead by hand for around 2 minutes until smooth and cohesive.
  3. Rest the dough: Shape the dough into a ball and let it rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to allow it to relax and hydrate.
  4. Divide and roll out dough: Cut the dough into 8 equal pieces. On a floured surface, roll each piece out to about 3/8 inch thickness, ensuring even thickness for uniform frying.
  5. Heat oil: Pour enough oil into a deep skillet or frying pan to reach approximately 1 inch in depth. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 375°F (180°C), using a thermometer for accuracy.
  6. Fry the dough: Carefully place the rolled dough pieces into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each piece for 1 minute on the first side.
  7. Flip and finish frying: Turn each dough piece over and fry for an additional 1 minute on the other side until both sides are golden and cooked through.
  8. Serve: Remove the fried dough from the oil and drain on paper towels. Immediately sprinkle generously with powdered sugar and serve warm for the best flavor.

Notes

  • Maintain oil temperature around 375°F (180°C) for crispy, non-greasy fried dough.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking and to prevent oil temperature from dropping.
  • Use a thermometer to check oil temperature if possible for best results.
  • The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for a few hours; bring to room temperature before frying.