Easy Elephant Ears

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Crispy, sweet elephant ears with cinnamon and sugar, perfect for a quick snack or dessert. They are light, flaky, and full of warm, comforting flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 can biscuits
  • 1/4 cup cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup sugar

Instructions

  1. Roll biscuits extra thin.
  2. Deep fry in hot oil until golden brown.
  3. Mix cinnamon and sugar together.
  4. Coat the fried biscuits with the cinnamon and sugar mixture.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat biscuits or a gluten-free alternative. If you prefer less sugar, reduce the amount in the cinnamon-sugar mix or substitute with a sugar alternative. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect golden brown color. Keep an eye on the biscuits while frying, as they can cook quickly. Also, feel free to experiment with flavored sugars, like vanilla or orange.

Serving Suggestions

Serve elephant ears warm, dusted with extra cinnamon-sugar for a delightful treat. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert. For a fun twist, consider adding fruit toppings or serving alongside fresh berries. These are perfect for brunch or as a sweet snack any time of day.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover elephant ears in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them chewy rather than crispy. For best results, enjoy them fresh out of the fryer.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Easy Elephant Ears contains roughly 359 calories, with 7g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value), protein (15% of the Daily Value), and potassium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 718mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).

359 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.4g 15% DV
Total Fat 9.7g 12% DV
Carbs 61.8g 22% DV
Fiber 1.5g 5% DV
Sugar 3.9g 8% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 718.5mg 31% DV
Potassium 545.4mg 12% DV
Cholesterol 0.8mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 10.9mg 12% DV
Calcium 51.7mg 4% DV
Iron 3.1mg 17% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 homemade biscuit dough instead of canned biscuits?

Absolutely! Homemade biscuit dough works great for this recipe. Just roll it out to the same thickness as the canned biscuits. You can even add a touch of vanilla or almond extract to enhance the flavor. Just make sure to adjust the frying time as homemade biscuits may vary in thickness.

What kind of oil is best for frying elephant ears?

For frying elephant ears, it's best to use oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils can withstand the high temperatures needed for frying without burning. Ensure the oil is deep enough to fully submerge the biscuits for even cooking.

Can I make these elephant ears ahead of time?

While elephant ears are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture ahead of time. If you need to make them in advance, fry them and let them cool completely before storing. When ready to serve, just reheat in the oven to regain that crispy texture.

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).

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