Little Sweet Ears
Little Sweet Ears are delicate, golden fried pastries with a hint of nutmeg, perfect for a sweet treat with honey or praline sauce. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they appeal to those who enjoy light, flavorful desserts or snacks suitable for sharing at gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg) together in a large bowl and make a well in the center.
- Blend eggs, melted butter, milk, and orange peel together.
- Add the egg mixture all at once to the flour mixture.
- Stir to blend well.
- Cover and chill thoroughly for about 2 hours.
- Roll out one-half of the dough to 1/8-inch thickness at a time.
- Cut into 4-inch rounds.
- Fry 3 or 4 at a time in deep, hot fat until puffed and golden, about 1 to 2 minutes on each side.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Keep warm and drizzle with honey or warm praline sauce before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg mixture. If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cake flour. For a twist, you can experiment by incorporating spices like cinnamon or cardamom. Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying for perfect puffiness, and avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the temperature.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful treats can be served as a sweet breakfast or a snack, paired with fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced meal. Drizzle with honey or warm praline sauce for an extra indulgence. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, serve alongside Coconut Muffins for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Little Sweet Ears in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm them in a toaster oven or on a skillet over low heat until crispy again. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Sweet Ears contains roughly 66 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 576mg per serving (25% 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 in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. When you're ready to fry, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling it out.
What oil is best for frying?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point works best for frying these Little Sweet Ears. Options like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are ideal. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can impart an unwanted flavor.
Can I freeze Little Sweet Ears?
Yes, you can freeze them after frying. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be reheated directly from the freezer in a hot oven for a few minutes.
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).