Elephant Ear Crispies
Elephant Ear Crispies are flaky, cinnamon-sugar pastries with a delightful crunch, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, appealing to those who love warm, sweet baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine scalded milk, butter, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
- Allow the mixture to cool before adding the yeast dissolved in warm water.
- Add the beaten egg and gradually incorporate the flour into the mixture.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and cover with a bowl; let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Divide the dough into two parts and roll each out to about 10 x 12 inches.
- Brush each rolled-out dough generously with softened butter.
- Sprinkle with 1/3 cup sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon on each.
- Roll each piece like a jelly roll and slice into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
- Place the slices on buttered cookie sheets and flatten with the bottom of a glass as flat as possible.
- Sprinkle with more cinnamon-sugar and let rise for 20 minutes.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, fry the slices instead of baking them. You can also substitute the scalded milk with almond milk for a dairy-free option. If you don't have active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast instead, but skip the proofing step. For added flavor, mix in a teaspoon of vanilla extract with the wet ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful crispies warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey for extra sweetness. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a complete snack experience, consider serving alongside Pepper Jellied Cream Cheese for a savory contrast, or enjoy with fresh fruit on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Elephant Ear Crispies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elephant Ear Crispies contains roughly 185 calories, with 5g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1446mg per serving (63% 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 make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. After mixing, cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. Before baking, allow it to come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes to ensure a good texture.
What can I use instead of cinnamon?
If you're not a fan of cinnamon, you can replace it with nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, a sprinkle of cocoa powder can add a rich, chocolatey twist to your crispies.
How do I know when the crispies are done baking?
The crispies are done when they are lightly browned on the top and firm to the touch. To be sure, you can insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
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).