Puffy Fried Bread
Puffy Fried Bread offers a delightful, crispy exterior with a light, airy interior. These golden diamond-shaped treats are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, especially when served with butter or honey. Their simple ingredients and quick frying process make them an irresistible comfort food for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift the flour, measure, and sift again with salt, baking powder, and sugar.
- Cut in the shortening, then add milk to make a soft dough just firm enough to roll.
- Cover the bowl and let the dough stand for 30 to 60 minutes.
- Roll the dough ¼ inch thick on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut into diamond-shaped pieces.
- Heat about 1 inch of salad oil in a frying pan to 370°-380°F.
- Add a few pieces at a time; turn immediately to puff evenly.
- Turn back to brown on both sides, then drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with butter or honey.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your oil is at the correct temperature, around 370°-380°F, to achieve that perfect puff. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with butter or margarine. Be careful not to overwork the dough; it should be soft and pliable. If you're looking for a sweeter version, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar after frying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve puffy fried bread warm, drizzled with honey or a pat of butter for a delightful treat. They pair wonderfully with savory dishes like chili or can be enjoyed as a sweet snack alongside recipes like Banana Pudding Supreme. Consider offering fresh fruit or a light salad on the side for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover puffy fried bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Puffy Fried Bread contains roughly 37 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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. After mixing, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out and frying. This can enhance the flavors and make it more convenient for serving later.
What can I use instead of salad oil for frying?
You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even peanut oil for frying puffy fried bread. These oils have high smoke points, making them ideal for deep frying and achieving that perfect golden color and crispiness.
How do I prevent the bread from absorbing too much oil?
To minimize oil absorption, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the dough. Frying in batches allows the temperature to remain consistent. Additionally, draining the fried bread on paper towels immediately after cooking will help remove excess oil.
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).