Puff Balls

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Puff Balls are sweet, crispy fried treats with a tender interior, perfect for snacking or dessert, appealing to those who enjoy fluffy, sugary delights.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 4 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons shortening
  • cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
  2. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into hot fat.
  3. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about several minutes.
  4. Drain the puff balls on paper towels.
  5. Roll in powdered sugar or regular sugar before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a dash of nutmeg to the batter. If you prefer a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cake flour. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure the puff balls become crispy. Use a candy thermometer to maintain the ideal frying temperature of around 350°F.

Serving Suggestions

Serve puff balls warm, rolled in powdered sugar for a sweet treat. They pair beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or can be enjoyed alongside a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert. Consider serving them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a fruit compote for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover puff balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes, which will help restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving them, as this may make them soggy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Puff Balls contains roughly 1430 calories, with 17g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (68% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1891mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).

1430 kcal 72% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 16.8g 34% DV
Total Fat 68.8g 88% DV
Carbs 189.1g 69% DV
Fiber 5.6g 20% DV
Sugar 65.1g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1891.5mg 82% DV
Potassium 739.7mg 16% DV
Cholesterol 167.3mg 56% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 51.9mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 23.9mg 27% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 886.2mg 68% DV
Iron 5.9mg 33% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe, but the texture will be denser. You may want to combine it with a bit of all-purpose flour for a lighter result. Start with a 50/50 mix and adjust based on your preference.

What is the best oil for frying puff balls?

For frying puff balls, use oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils can withstand high temperatures without burning, ensuring your puff balls cook evenly and become golden brown.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the batter just before frying for optimal texture. If you must make it ahead, store it in the refrigerator for no more than a few hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before frying to achieve the best results.

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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