Old Hats
Old Hats are crispy, sweet breakfast treats made from simple ingredients like sour milk and flour, perfect for a quick, satisfying start to the day with maple syrup.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the egg, sour milk, and soda together.
- Add salt and baking powder to the mixture.
- Gradually add enough flour to form a soft dough that can be rolled out.
- Cut the dough into thin strips.
- Fry the strips in hot fat until they are brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with maple syrup.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best results, use fresh sour milk or substitute with buttermilk. If you don't have sour milk, you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to regular milk. Ensure your frying fat is hot enough to achieve a crispy texture; test with a small piece of dough first. If you like a sweeter flavor, consider adding a touch of sugar to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Old Hats warm, drizzled generously with maple syrup for a delightful sweetness. They pair well with fresh fruit, such as berries or bananas, and a side of yogurt for a balanced breakfast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside scrambled eggs or a light salad. They also make a fun snack any time of day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Old Hats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as they can become soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Hats contains roughly 258 calories, with 4g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 724mg per serving (31% 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 regular milk instead of sour milk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to it and letting it sit for about 5 minutes to curdle. This will create a similar acidity to sour milk, giving your Old Hats the right flavor and texture.
What type of flour should I use?
All-purpose flour works best for this recipe. However, if you're looking for a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour, which will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.
Can these be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out. For a quicker option, consider making a batch of Rookie Cookies Uncooked Fudge for a sweet treat alongside your Old Hats.
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).