Deep-Fried Bowties
Delightful deep-fried bowties with a tender, flaky texture, coated in confectioners sugar. Perfect for festive occasions or special treats, appealing to those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine buttermilk, egg yolks, sugar, vanilla, grated orange peel, and salt.
- Slowly blend in melted Crisco and stir in 3/4 cup of flour.
- Place the dough on a floured board and knead in enough remaining flour to make a soft dough.
- Roll the dough into a 12 x 12-inch square on a floured surface.
- Cut the square into 4 x 1 1/2-inch strips.
- Make a 1-inch slit down the middle of each strip and pull one end through the slit to form a bow.
- In a deep saucepan, heat 2 inches of Crisco to 375°F.
- Fry several bowties at a time for about 1 1/2 minutes or until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Sift confectioners sugar over both sides of the fried bowties before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure your oil is at the right temperature before frying; use a thermometer for accuracy. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a bit of vinegar or lemon juice. For a twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor, reminiscent of other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These deep-fried bowties are delightful served as a dessert or snack. Dust them generously with confectioners sugar and pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence. They also make a fun treat for parties alongside other sweets like the Pride Of Iowa Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried bowties in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deep-Fried Bowties contains roughly 86 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 883mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular butter instead of Crisco?
Yes, you can substitute melted butter for Crisco in the recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, as Crisco provides a unique flakiness. If using butter, ensure it is fully melted and cooled before adding to the wet ingredients.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually knead in small amounts of flour until it reaches a workable consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour at once, as this can lead to tough bowties. Remember, the goal is a soft but manageable dough that holds its shape during frying.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature before rolling and cutting into strips.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).