Potato Fried Cakes

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Potato Fried Cakes are crispy, sweet treats with a hint of nutmeg and vanilla, perfect for breakfast or dessert, appealing to those who enjoy rich, fried pastries.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups hot mashed potatoes
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons melted shortening
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup sweet milk
  • 5 teaspoons baking powder

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together, then roll out with a rolling pin.
  2. Cut out with a donut cutter.
  3. Heat a can of shortening on the stove to form grease.
  4. Bring the grease to a boil.
  5. Put donuts in the hot grease until they turn a golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using buttermilk instead of sweet milk. Additionally, if you don't have shortening, vegetable oil works well for frying. When mixing your ingredients, be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cakes. Nutmeg can be substituted with cinnamon for a different flavor profile. For a twist, try adding chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet variation.

Serving Suggestions

These Potato Fried Cakes are delightful served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzled with maple syrup. They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a sweet brunch. Consider serving alongside a fruit salad or with coffee for a complete breakfast experience. They also complement desserts like Jello-No Bake Mini Cheesecake for a varied dessert table.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Potato Fried Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or air fryer until warmed through and crispy, avoiding a microwave as it can make them soggy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Potato Fried Cakes contains roughly 440 calories, with 6g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 978mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).

440 kcal 22% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.3g 13% DV
Total Fat 1.8g 2% DV
Carbs 65.8g 24% DV
Fiber 4.9g 18% DV
Sugar 8.3g 17% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 978.2mg 43% DV
Potassium 433.8mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 14.5mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3.8mcg
Vitamin C 28.8mg 32% DV
Calcium 84.4mg 6% DV
Iron 2.2mg 12% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

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 cakes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying. This can enhance the flavors and make the process quicker when you're ready to cook. Just remember to let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out.

What type of potatoes should I use?

For the best results, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. These varieties yield a fluffy texture ideal for mashed potatoes, which helps achieve the right consistency for the cakes. Avoid waxy potatoes as they may lead to a denser cake.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

While frying gives the cakes their signature flavor and crispy texture, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Brush the tops with melted butter before baking for added richness, but be aware that the texture will differ from traditional fried cakes.

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).

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