Making Fried Cookie Dough Without A Deep Fryer

How to Make Fried Cookie Dough Without a Deep Fryer

Deep-fried cookie dough is a unique dessert that is warm and crispy on the outside, with a gooey and melty inside. While it is typically made using a deep fryer, it is possible to achieve similar results without one. Here's a guide on how to make this indulgent treat without specialized equipment.

How to Make Fried Cookie Dough Without a Deep Fryer

Forming the dough into balls and freezing them

To make fried cookie dough without a deep fryer, you'll need to form the dough into balls and freeze them before frying. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Prepare your favourite cookie dough recipe or use store-bought cookie dough. Keep in mind that the dough should be thick enough to hold its shape when frozen.
• Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
• Freeze the dough balls for at least 1 hour or until they are firm. You can also place them in an airtight container and freeze them for up to 2 days before frying.
• Once the dough balls are frozen, you can proceed to the next steps of preparing the batter and heating the oil for frying.

It is important to note that the freezing step is crucial to the success of this recipe. Freezing the dough balls helps them hold their shape during frying and prevents them from falling apart. It also allows you to prepare the dough in advance and fry them at a later time.

Additionally, you can experiment with different flavours and ingredients in your cookie dough, such as adding chocolate chips, candy bars, or trying different types of dough, such as sugar cookie dough or chocolate dough. Just ensure that the dough is thick enough to hold its shape when frozen.

Preparing the batter

The batter is what will give your fried cookie dough that crispy, golden texture on the outside. It's important to get the right consistency to ensure your cookie dough is fully coated before frying. Here's a step-by-step guide to preparing the batter:

Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. The amount of each ingredient will vary depending on the recipe you are following, but these are the basic components of the batter.

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk them together until they are well mixed and there are no lumps.

In a separate small bowl, combine the wet ingredients: milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk them together until they are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.

Now, slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Pour the liquid mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients in a steady stream while whisking continuously. This will help prevent lumps from forming. Keep whisking until you have a smooth and thin batter.

The batter is now ready to be used for frying your cookie dough. If you are not using it immediately, it is best to keep it covered at room temperature. Do not place it in the refrigerator, as the batter may thicken and become difficult to work with.

When you are ready to fry your cookie dough, give the batter a quick whisk to ensure it is still smooth and free-flowing. Then, simply dip your chilled cookie dough balls into the batter, making sure they are completely coated, before carefully dropping them into the hot oil for frying.

Remember, the key to successful batter is achieving the right consistency. It should be thin enough to coat the cookie dough evenly, but not so thin that it doesn't provide a crispy coating. With these steps, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious fried cookie dough treats!

Heating the oil

Firstly, choose an appropriate oil with a high smoking point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil. You will need a substantial amount, roughly 4-5 cups or 1 quart, to ensure your cookie dough balls can be fully submerged during frying.

Next, select a suitable pot or frying pan that can withstand high temperatures and is large enough to accommodate the volume of oil. A heavy pot or pan is preferable as it will help distribute heat more evenly.

Now, pour the oil into the pan to a depth of about 2-3 inches. Too little oil may not sufficiently cover the cookie dough, resulting in uneven cooking, while too much oil can be hazardous and cause spillage or splattering.

Before turning on the heat, insert a deep-fry or candy thermometer into the oil. This tool will help you monitor the temperature and ensure it stays within the optimal range.

Turn on the heat to medium or medium-high. You want the oil to gradually heat up rather than reaching high temperatures too quickly, which can be dangerous. The ideal temperature for frying cookie dough is between 360°F and 375°F.

Keep a close eye on the thermometer as the oil heats up. When it reaches the desired temperature range, you can begin frying your batter-coated cookie dough balls. It is crucial to maintain this temperature throughout the frying process, so you may need to adjust your burner's heat setting accordingly.

Remember always to exercise caution when working with hot oil. Use long utensils to carefully lower the coated cookie dough into the oil, and avoid overcrowding the pan by frying only a few pieces at a time.

By following these steps and paying close attention to temperature control, you'll be able to heat the oil effectively and safely for frying your cookie dough treats!

Coating the dough balls in batter

Before you begin coating the dough balls, ensure that you have prepared your batter. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients, which typically include flour, baking powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Then, add wet ingredients such as milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk the mixture until you achieve a thin, smooth, and lump-free batter. It's important to use this batter soon after preparing it, as it may thicken over time.

Now, let's talk about coating the dough balls. Start by removing the chilled or frozen dough balls from the refrigerator or freezer. If your dough has been frozen, it's a good idea to let it thaw slightly so that it's easier to work with. Prepare a small bowl of flour and gently roll each dough ball in the flour before dipping it in the batter. This flour coating will help the batter adhere better to the dough.

Using a fork or your hands, carefully dip each dough ball into the batter, ensuring that it is completely coated. Take your time with this step, as you want an even and thorough coating. Allow any excess batter to drip back into the bowl. This step is crucial, as too much batter can affect the texture and appearance of the final product.

Once the dough ball is evenly coated, you can gently place it into the hot oil for frying. Be careful not to crowd the pot or pan, as this can affect the oil temperature and the overall frying process. Fry the batter-coated dough balls in batches to ensure even cooking.

By following these detailed steps for coating the dough balls in batter, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious fried cookie dough treats!

Frying the dough balls

Preparing the Dough Balls:

Before frying, ensure your cookie dough balls are properly chilled or frozen. This step is crucial as it helps the dough hold its shape during frying. Place the shaped dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least an hour or up to two days. Alternatively, you can freeze them for about 20 minutes while you prepare the batter and heat the oil.

Preparing the Batter:

In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients for the batter: flour, baking powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. Then, in a separate small bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, whisking continuously until you achieve a thin, smooth, and lump-free batter.

Heating the Oil:

For deep frying, use a pot or a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Pour in enough vegetable oil to reach a depth of about 2-3 inches. Attach a deep-fry thermometer to the side of the pot and heat the oil over medium heat. You want to achieve an oil temperature of around 360°F to 375°F. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain this temperature range.

Take your chilled or frozen dough balls and dip them into the batter, turning them over with a fork or your hands to ensure they are completely coated. Allow the excess batter to drip back into the bowl. This step ensures a light and crispy coating on your fried dough balls. Carefully place the coated dough balls into the hot oil, frying 3-5 balls at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the dough balls for about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per side, or until they are puffed and a dark golden brown all over. Use a frying skimmer or slotted spoon to gently turn them over and ensure even cooking. Maintain the oil temperature between 360°F and 375°F throughout the frying process.

Draining and Serving:

Once the dough balls are fried to a golden brown, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain any excess oil. Dust the fried dough balls with powdered sugar, and if desired, drizzle them with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch. These fried cookie dough balls are best served warm and fresh, but they can be kept warm in a low-temperature oven until ready to serve.

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