Mardi Gras Fried Dough (Printable version)

Crispy golden fried dough dusted with powdered sugar delivers a festive, irresistible treat.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
05 - 2 large eggs
06 - 3/4 cup whole milk
07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
08 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ For Frying

09 - 4 cups vegetable oil for deep frying

→ Topping

10 - 1 cup powdered sugar

# How to Make It:

01 - Whisk together flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl until evenly distributed.
02 - In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until fully blended and smooth.
03 - Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients and stir until soft, slightly sticky dough comes together.
04 - Turn dough onto lightly floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes until smooth and elastic.
05 - Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into 3 x 2-inch rectangles or diamond shapes.
06 - Heat vegetable oil in deep pot to 350°F.
07 - Fry dough pieces in batches, turning once, until puffed and golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
08 - Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels briefly.
09 - Generously dust warm pieces with powdered sugar on all sides.
10 - Serve immediately while warm for optimal texture and flavor.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • These fried dough pillows come together in under an hour with ingredients you likely have in your pantry right now
  • Nothing beats the sound of sugar hitting hot, golden dough—its like edible celebration
  • They are surprisingly forgiving, meaning even first-time fryers can achieve that sought-after puffy, tender interior
02 -
  • Hot oil can splatter when dough is added—stand back slightly and lower pieces gently with tongs or a slotted spoon
  • If the oil smokes, its too hot—remove from heat briefly to avoid burnt flavor
  • These are best eaten within 30 minutes while still warm
03 -
  • Room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly and help create consistent dough
  • A splatter guard or mesh screen can save your stovetop from oil spots
  • Leftovers can be revived in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes, though they are truly best fresh

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