*Kinklings
Kinklings are delightful, fried yeast dough strips or shapes with a crispy exterior and soft interior, perfect for breakfast or snack. Their mildly sweet flavor and tender texture make them a crowd-pleaser for both children and adults, ideal for sharing at family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the yeast cake in water and set aside.
- Scald the milk and shortening together until hot, then cool slightly.
- Beat eggs in a large bowl, add sugar and salt, and mix well.
- Add the yeast mixture, milk and shortening mixture, to the eggs and stir to combine.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until all flour has been incorporated and dough is soft but not sticky.
- Cover the dough and let rise until doubled in bulk, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into 1 1/2 to 2-inch strips, diamond shapes, or triangles.
- Let the cut dough rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the dough pieces until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the yeast is fresh and properly dissolved in warm water before adding. Consider using half all-purpose flour and half whole wheat for a heartier version. If you want to experiment with flavors, adding a hint of nutmeg or cinnamon can enhance the taste. Ensure your frying oil is at the correct temperature for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Kinklings are delightful as a breakfast treat or a snack alongside coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with Pineapple Fruit Compote for a refreshing contrast. Try serving them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. For a savory twist, serve them with Hot Reuben Dip for a unique appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover kinklings in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness, rather than using the microwave, which can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of *Kinklings contains roughly 259 calories, with 5g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1586mg per serving (69% 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 instant yeast instead of a yeast cake?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for the yeast cake. Use about 2 teaspoons of instant yeast. There’s no need to dissolve it in water; you can simply mix it directly with the dry ingredients. This will save you some time, and your kinklings will still rise beautifully.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it may be due to cold temperatures or inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that you’re allowing the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. If it still doesn’t rise, try kneading it a bit longer or letting it rest for more time to encourage fermentation.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the kinklings for a healthier alternative. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the cut dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. They may not have the same crispy texture as fried ones, but they will still be delicious.
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).