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Sourdough Elephant Ears

Name: Sourdough Elephant Ears
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 300 g All-Purpose Flour; 100 g Whole Milk (Warm); 25 g Butter (Melted); 50 g Sugar; 100 g Sourdough Starter (or sourdough discard); 2 g Salt; 7 g Dried Yeast (optional); 100 g Sugar (for coating); 5 g Ground Cinnamon; 2 g Salt (a pinch!)

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Imagine a cozy kitchen filled with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly fried pastries. Sourdough Elephant Ears are a delightful treat that truly encapsulate the essence of comfort food. Perfect for a family gathering, a special brunch, or simply as an indulgent snack with a cup of coffee, these tender, crispy delights will quickly become a favorite in your home. The combination of rich sourdough flavor, cinnamon, and sugar makes each bite uniquely satisfying, evoking memories of cherished moments shared around the table.

Reasons to Love Sourdough Elephant Ears

Sourdough Elephant Ears are not just any pastry; they embody the comforting nature of homemade treats. Here’s why they’re so irresistible:

The unique sourdough flavor elevates this classic treat, making it stand out.
The crispy exterior paired with a soft interior creates a delightful texture.
They are surprisingly easy to make, perfect for bakers of all levels.
The versatility of ingredients allows for creative variations.

What You’ll Need

To create these delicious Sourdough Elephant Ears, you’ll need a balanced mix of ingredients that come together harmoniously. Each element has a role to play in enhancing flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:

300 g All-Purpose Flour
100 g Whole Milk (Warm)
25 g Butter (Melted)
50 g Sugar
100 g Sourdough Starter (or sourdough discard)
2 g Salt
7 g Dried Yeast (optional)
100 g Sugar (for coating)
5 g Cinnamon (Ground)
2 g Salt (a pinch!)

These are simple ingredients that can easily be found in your pantry, making this recipe straightforward and accessible.

Step by Step Method

Creating your Sourdough Elephant Ears is a delightful process. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect pastries:

Begin by pouring the warm milk, melted butter, and sugar into a large bowl. Mix together to dissolve the sugar completely.
If using, add the dried yeast and allow it to dissolve and foam for a few minutes, signaling it’s active.
Next, stir in the flour, salt, and sourdough starter. Mix until you have a shaggy dough that yet feels dry.
Use your hands to bring the dough together, ensuring no dry bits of flour remain. If the dough seems too dry, add a splash more milk.
Transfer the dough to your countertop and knead it for about 5 to 10 minutes until soft and supple. This can also be done in a stand mixer if preferred.
Once kneaded, place the dough into a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm environment. If using commercial yeast, this could take 1 to 2 hours, while just using starter could take 4 to 8 hours — you’re aiming for a 50% rise.
After the dough has risen, divide it into equal pieces—no need for a scale unless you prefer precision.
Shape each piece into a rough ball and let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes on the countertop.
Heat your preferred oil in a large pot (rice bran or vegetable oil works well) to about 170C (340F). Refer to notes below regarding oil types and pot sizes.
While the oil heats, roll each ball into “elephant ear” shapes.
In a separate bowl, combine the cinnamon, sugar, and pinch of salt to create the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Once the oil is ready, gently place one or two pieces of dough into the hot oil at a time. Fry for a few minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy.
Carefully remove the cooked pieces from the oil and dip them into the cinnamon sugar mixture while still hot.
Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, crispy goodness!

Prep ~ 30 minutes, Cook ~ 10 minutes, Total ~ 40 minutes, Servings ~ 6, Kcal ~ 150 each (estimate).

Plan Ahead

If you’re preparing for a special occasion, these Sourdough Elephant Ears can actually be prepped ahead of time. You can make the dough and let it rise, then cover it and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to fry, just let the dough come back to room temperature and finish with the frying and coating steps. This not only saves you time but also allows you to enjoy freshly made pastries at a moment’s notice.

How to Store Leftovers

Should you have any Sourdough Elephant Ears left over, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days. For longer storage, you might consider freezing them. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat them in the oven at a low temperature to restore their crispiness. Look for the golden brown color and crisp texture as cues that they’re fresh and ready to enjoy.

Perfect Pairings

Sourdough Elephant Ears are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with other treats and beverages. Here are some suggestions:

A steaming cup of coffee or tea
Fresh fruit preserves or jams for dipping
Whipped cream for a touch of indulgence
A side of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert

Flavor Twists and Substitutions

Don’t hesitate to make these Sourdough Elephant Ears your own with a few notable variations:

Chocolate Chip Dips: Melt chocolate and use it for dipping the fried ears for a decadent touch.
Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts to the cinnamon sugar for a delightful crunch.
Fruit Infusion: Incorporate dried fruits or zest of citrus in the dough for a different flavor profile.
Glazed Treats: Drizzle a simple glaze over the top for added sweetness and flair.
Savory Versions: Experiment with garlic and herbs for a completely different, savory spin.

Pro Tips for Best Results

To ensure your Sourdough Elephant Ears come out perfectly every time, keep these professional tips in mind:

Ensure your oil is at the right temperature for frying. A thermometer can be helpful.
Don’t overcrowd the pot; this can lower oil temperature and affect cooking.
Allow enough resting time for the dough, as this enhances flavor and texture.
If using commercial yeast, keep an eye on the dough rising to prevent over-proofing.
Be mindful of the size of your dough pieces; uniformity helps in even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, whole wheat flour can be substituted, but it may affect the texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have a sourdough starter? You can use a bit of yeast instead, or even make a quick version by incorporating a bit of bread flour and water for a few hours before using.
Can I bake these instead of frying? While traditionally deep-fried, they can be baked, but the texture will differ significantly.
How can I make them sweeter? Simply increase the sugar in the dough or add an extra dusting of cinnamon sugar after frying.
What should I do if the dough is too sticky? Add a little more flour until the dough reaches a manageable consistency.

Final Thoughts

Sourdough Elephant Ears are a deliciously unique snack that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Their beautiful golden appearance and delightful crunch make them a perfect treat for any gathering or a cozy day at home. I encourage you to whip up a batch soon, and you might find they become a beloved staple in your kitchen repertoire. If you’re looking for more enchanting ways to enjoy sourdough, don’t miss out on exploring brown butter sourdough chocolate chip cookies or enhancing your baking skills with crusty dill pickle sourdough bread. Enjoy your culinary adventures!