Knee Patches
Knee patches are crispy, cinnamon-scented fried dough squares perfect as a sweet snack or dessert, offering warm flavors and a satisfying crunch for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, milk, egg, and salt in a bowl until well combined.
- Flatten the dough and cut into squares, adding more flour or milk if needed for the right consistency.
- Deep-fry the dough squares in at least 2 1/2 inches of hot cooking oil until golden brown.
- Stack the fried squares on a plate and sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. If you don't have milk, you can substitute with almond milk or even water, but be aware that this may alter the flavor slightly. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the cinnamon flavor. If the dough is too sticky, gradually incorporate more flour until you reach the desired consistency. Consider serving these alongside a sweet dip for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Knee Patches warm, sprinkled with a generous amount of cinnamon. They pair wonderfully with a side of Sweet Cream-Style Potato Salad for a complete meal or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. You can also garnish them with fresh fruits or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the fried dough squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to a week. Reheat by placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness, or use an air fryer for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Knee Patches contains roughly 854 calories, with 20g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value) and protein (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, allow the dough to come to room temperature before cutting and frying. This way, you can enjoy fresh Knee Patches whenever you like.
What type of oil is best for frying?
For deep frying, use oils with a high smoke point such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils will ensure that your Knee Patches fry evenly and achieve that beautiful golden brown color without absorbing too much oil.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While deep frying gives Knee Patches their characteristic texture, you can bake them as a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
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).