Air-Fryer Tricks To Fix Elephant Ears

Elephant ears are a popular treat at fairs, carnivals, and outdoor events in the United States. They are made by deep-frying dough until it puffs up and becomes golden brown. They are then typically topped with powdered sugar and cinnamon, creating a sweet and crispy dessert. While traditional elephant ears are deep-fried, it is possible to make them in an air fryer. This method uses less oil and still achieves a similar crispy and delicious result.

How to make the dough

To make the dough, you will need the following ingredients:

• Flour (all-purpose or self-rising)
• Liquid (water, milk, or a combination of both)
• Fat (shortening, butter, or oil)
• Leavening agent (baking powder or active dry yeast)
• Salt
• Sugar (optional)

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing the flour, salt, and any other dry ingredients (such as sugar or baking powder) in a large mixing bowl. Ensure that the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.

Step 2: Add Liquid and Fat

Slowly add the liquid (warm water and/or milk) to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough begins to form. You may not need all the liquid, so add it gradually to avoid making the dough too sticky. If you are using butter or shortening, melt it and add it to the mixture. The fat will add richness and flavour to the dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Once the dough has come together, turn it out onto a floured surface and gently knead it until it forms a smooth ball. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour on your hands and the work surface. If it feels too dry, add a small amount of liquid. This process should take about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rest

Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten in the flour to relax, making the dough easier to roll out and giving the leavening agent time to work.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has rested, divide it into 6 to 8 equal portions. Use a rolling pin to roll each portion into a thin circle, about 1/2-inch thick. If you don't have a rolling pin, you can use your hands or fingertips to flatten the dough.

Step 6: Shape the Elephant Ears

Use a knife or a pizza cutter to cut the rolled-out dough into the desired shape, typically large circles or ovals resembling elephant ears. You can also get creative and make smaller portions for mini elephant ears.

Step 7: Prepare for Frying

At this point, you should heat your air fryer to 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the model. You may or may not need to preheat it, so check your air fryer's instructions. Prepare a plate or baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil from the fried dough.

Now you are ready to fry your elephant ears! Place them into the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd the basket. Fry the dough for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it is puffed and golden brown. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as different air fryer models may vary.

Once they are done, remove the elephant ears from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. You can now enjoy your freshly made elephant ears! Top them with cinnamon and sugar, or get creative with other sweet or savoury toppings.

Frying the dough

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by removing the buttermilk biscuits from the can and laying them out on a large cutting board. Using a rolling pin, gently flatten each biscuit into larger circles, aiming for an even thickness of approximately 1/4 inch. This step helps the dough cook more evenly and provides a larger surface area for toppings.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) if your model requires preheating. This ensures that the dough starts cooking at the optimal temperature, promoting even browning and crisping.

Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or brush it with melted butter to prevent the dough from sticking. You can also use parchment paper, but ensure it is perforated or add holes to allow proper airflow.

Step 4: Place the Dough in the Air Fryer

Arrange the flattened biscuits into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don't overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the dough in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can affect cooking results.

Step 5: Air Fry the Dough

Set the air fryer to cook at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. After the initial cooking time, flip the dough and continue air frying for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the specific model of your air fryer and the thickness of your dough.

Step 6: Remove and Brush with Butter

Once the dough is cooked to a golden brown and puffed-up texture, carefully remove it from the air fryer and place it on a serving plate. While the dough is still warm, brush each piece generously with melted butter. This adds richness and helps the sugar and cinnamon adhere to the surface.

Step 7: Sprinkle with Sugar and Cinnamon

After brushing with butter, it's time to sprinkle powdered sugar over the warm dough. You can also add ground cinnamon to the sugar for a classic flavor combination. The warmth of the dough will help the butter melt, allowing the sugar and cinnamon to stick and create a sweet and flavorful coating.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your freshly cooked Air Fryer Fried Dough while it's still warm, as this is when it's at its crispiest and most delicious. You can enjoy it as is or get creative with additional toppings, such as chocolate sauce, fruit compote, or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips for Success:

• Roll the dough to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
• Preheat your air fryer for optimal cooking results.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper airflow and even cooking.
• Flip the dough halfway through the cooking process for even browning.
• Brush the dough gently with butter to coat it evenly without making it soggy.
• Experiment with various toppings to find your favorite combinations.
• Serve the fried dough immediately for the best texture and taste.
• Adjust cooking times as needed, depending on your air fryer model and dough thickness.

Brushing with butter

When brushing with butter, use a basting brush to apply a thin layer of melted butter to your food or the air fryer basket. This will enhance the flavour and texture of your dish without making it overly greasy. Be sure to coat all sides of the food evenly to avoid uneven cooking. You can also mix spices, herbs, and seasonings with the melted butter for extra flavour.

If you are cooking meat, rub the flavoured butter into all the joints and crevices for maximum flavour. For fatty foods like burger patties and bacon, it's best to avoid using butter as it can result in excessive grease and smoke. In these cases, cooking oils with a higher smoke point, such as olive or vegetable oil, are a better option.

When using butter in an air fryer, it's important to monitor the temperature to prevent the butter from burning. Butter has a smoking point of 350°F, so be sure to keep your air fryer temperature below this point. You can also clarify the butter before using it, as clarified butter has a higher smoking point of 450°F.

Additionally, when using butter in an air fryer, it's crucial to clean the appliance thoroughly after each use. Leftover grease can cause smoking, charring, and unpleasant flavours in subsequent dishes. To clean your air fryer, start by turning it off and letting it cool down. Then, use a kitchen towel to wipe away any excess grease. Create a mixture of warm water and soap, and fill it inside the air fryer basket to cut through the grease. Finally, rinse the basket with warm water and ensure it's completely dry before using it again.

Adding toppings

Elephant Ears are a popular carnival and fair food in the United States, known for their crispy exterior and soft, doughy interior. While traditionally deep-fried, they can also be made in an air fryer with less oil.

The toppings you choose for your Elephant Ears can elevate this treat to the next level. Here are some creative ways to add toppings and enhance the sweetness and flavour:

Powdered Sugar and Cinnamon

The classic combination of powdered sugar and cinnamon is a popular choice for Elephant Ears. The sugar adds a sweet finish, while cinnamon provides a warm and comforting aroma. You can mix these two ingredients together and sprinkle them generously over the Elephant Ears. This traditional option is a favourite for a reason!

Fruit Fillings

For a fruity twist, add a spoonful of fruit preserves or pie filling to the centre of your Elephant Ear before folding and air frying. This option provides a burst of flavour and a contrast of textures. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent treat.

Chocolate Lovers

Indulge your sweet tooth by adding some chocolate chips or chunks to the centre of your Elephant Ear before folding and air frying. The warm, melted chocolate will ooze out, creating a gooey and decadent treat. Alternatively, you can drizzle chocolate sauce on top of your Elephant Ear for a more subtle chocolate touch.

Caramel and Other Syrups

Drizzle caramel syrup, chocolate sauce, or strawberry sauce on top of your Elephant Ears for a sweet and sticky treat. You can also get creative with other flavoured syrups to find your perfect combination.

Nutty Delight

For a crunchy and savoury element, sprinkle some finely chopped nuts like pecans or almonds on top of your Elephant Ear before folding and air frying. This adds a contrast of textures and a depth of flavour that pairs well with the sweetness of the dough.

Glazed Elephant Ears

For an extra sweet and shiny finish, make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and a small amount of milk or water. Drizzle this glaze over your Elephant Ears after air frying for an extra layer of flavour and a beautiful presentation.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of these toppings or create your own unique variations. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customising your Elephant Ears!

Reheating and storing

Elephant ears are best enjoyed fresh and warm, straight out of the fryer. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them for later.

Storing Elephant Ears

Elephant ears can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. They will lose some of their crispiness over time, but they will still be edible. Alternatively, you can store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days.

Reheating Elephant Ears

If you want to enjoy your elephant ears warm again, you have several options for reheating them:

• Air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and warm the elephant ears for 1-2 minutes until they are heated through and crispy.
• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the elephant ears on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: For a quick option, microwave the elephant ears for 20-30 seconds. This method may not retain their crispiness.
• Toaster oven: You can also use a toaster oven to reheat your elephant ears.

Frequently asked questions