Easy elephant ears, those crispy, sugary delights that evoke memories of county fairs and childhood joy, are surprisingly simple to make at home! Forget the long lines and inflated prices; with this recipe, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible treats in your own kitchen in under 30 minutes.
While the exact origin of elephant ears is debated, similar fried dough pastries have existed in various cultures for centuries. From the beignets of France to the sopapillas of the American Southwest, the concept of frying dough and dusting it with sugar is a universal comfort food. The American version, often associated with fairs and festivals, gained popularity in the mid-20th century, becoming a beloved symbol of summertime fun.
What makes easy elephant ears so universally appealing? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The crispy, slightly chewy dough, the warm, melting butter, and the sweet, cinnamon-infused sugar create a symphony of sensations that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to customize! Add a drizzle of chocolate, a sprinkle of nuts, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. But beyond the taste, there’s also the convenience factor. This recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, making it a perfect last-minute dessert or a fun activity to do with the kids. So, are you ready to create some magical memories? Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (16 ounces) refrigerated pizza dough
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- Optional toppings: honey, chocolate syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh fruit
Preparing the Dough and Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to prep our dough and get that delicious cinnamon-sugar mixture ready. This is where the magic begins!
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the middle position. This will ensure even baking and prevent the elephant ears from burning on the bottom.
- Prepare a baking sheet. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This is crucial! Parchment paper prevents the elephant ears from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.
- Let the pizza dough come to room temperature. Remove the pizza dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will make it much easier to roll out. Cold dough is stiff and resistant, and we want it nice and pliable.
- Mix the cinnamon and sugar. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir well until evenly mixed. This is our flavor bomb! The ratio of cinnamon to sugar is perfect, but feel free to adjust it to your liking. If you’re a cinnamon fanatic, add a little extra!
- Melt the butter. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. You can also melt it in a small saucepan over low heat. Just be careful not to burn it! Melted butter is essential for creating that crispy, golden-brown crust.
Rolling, Shaping, and Coating
Now for the fun part! We’re going to roll out the dough, shape it into those iconic elephant ears, and coat them in that irresistible cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Roll out the pizza dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 12×16 inches. The thinner you roll it, the crispier the elephant ears will be. But be careful not to roll it too thin, or it might tear.
- Brush with melted butter. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the entire surface of the dough with the melted butter. Make sure to get every nook and cranny! The butter is what helps the cinnamon-sugar stick and creates that flaky texture.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough. Don’t be shy! We want a generous coating of that sweet, spicy goodness.
- Fold the dough. Fold the dough in half lengthwise, bringing one long edge over to meet the other.
- Brush with melted butter again. Brush the top of the folded dough with more melted butter.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture again. Sprinkle the buttered dough with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Fold again. Fold the dough in half lengthwise again, so you have a long, narrow strip.
- Slice the dough. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 1-inch thick strips.
- Shape the elephant ears. Gently twist each strip of dough a few times to create a spiral shape. Then, coil the twisted dough into a circle, tucking the end underneath to secure it. This is what gives them that classic elephant ear look!
- Place on baking sheet. Place the shaped elephant ears on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
Baking and Adding Toppings
Almost there! Now it’s time to bake these beauties until they’re golden brown and crispy. And then, the best part: adding your favorite toppings!
- Bake in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the elephant ears are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly.
- Let cool slightly. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the elephant ears cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent them from getting soggy.
- Add your favorite toppings. While the elephant ears are still warm, drizzle them with honey or chocolate syrup, sprinkle them with powdered sugar, or top them with whipped cream and fresh fruit. The possibilities are endless! Get creative and have fun!
Tips and Variations
Here are a few extra tips and ideas to make your elephant ears even more amazing:
- Use different extracts. Add a few drops of vanilla extract or almond extract to the melted butter for a more complex flavor.
- Add spices. Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger.
- Use different sugars. Try using brown sugar or coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer, more caramel-like flavor.
- Add nuts. Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds, over the elephant ears before baking.
- Make them savory. Skip the cinnamon-sugar and use grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian herbs for a savory version.
- Air Fryer Option: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the shaped elephant ears in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Troubleshooting
Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are a few common problems and how to fix them:
- Elephant ears are not crispy. Make sure you’re rolling the dough thin enough. Also, ensure your oven is hot enough. You can also try baking them for a few extra minutes.
- Elephant ears are burning. Reduce the oven temperature slightly and keep a closer eye on them. You can also try placing a sheet of aluminum foil over the elephant ears during the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from burning.
- Cinnamon-sugar mixture is falling off. Make sure you’re using enough melted butter to help the mixture stick. You can also gently press the mixture into the dough before baking.
- Dough is too sticky. Add a little more flour to your work surface.
Enjoy your homemade elephant ears! They’re perfect for a quick and easy dessert, a fun snack, or a special treat for any occasion. I hope you love them as much as I do!
Conclusion:
This easy elephant ears recipe is truly a game-changer, and I genuinely believe it deserves a permanent spot in your baking repertoire. Why? Because it delivers that irresistible combination of crispy, flaky, and sweet in a fraction of the time and with minimal effort compared to traditional methods. Forget spending hours kneading dough and waiting for it to rise! This shortcut version uses readily available ingredients and a clever technique to achieve that authentic elephant ear texture and taste that we all crave.
Think about it: warm, golden-brown pastry, generously coated in cinnamon sugar, melting in your mouth with every bite. It’s the perfect treat for a cozy weekend breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or even a simple yet impressive dessert to share with friends and family. The aroma alone, as these bake in the oven, is enough to fill your home with warmth and happiness.
But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! While the classic cinnamon sugar topping is always a winner, don’t be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on things. For a richer, more decadent treat, try drizzling melted chocolate over the finished elephant ears. A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk adds a touch of elegance. Or, for a more adventurous flavor profile, consider using a blend of spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
Serving suggestions are endless! Enjoy these easy elephant ears warm, straight from the oven, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience. Pair them with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat. They also make a fantastic addition to a brunch spread, alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and other breakfast favorites. And if you happen to have any leftovers (though I highly doubt it!), they can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave.
I’ve personally made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I’m confident that you’ll love it just as much as I do. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward instructions make it accessible to bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of homemade elephant ears without all the fuss. I promise you, this recipe will become your new go-to for satisfying those sweet cravings.
And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please share your photos and comments. Let me know what variations you tried, what your family and friends thought, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create and share recipes that you’ll love. Happy baking! I am sure you will enjoy these easy elephant ears as much as I do!
Easy Elephant Ears: A Simple Recipe You'll Love
Easy and delicious elephant ears made with refrigerated pizza dough, cinnamon, and sugar. A quick and fun treat perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Instructions
Recipe Notes
- Flavor Variations: Add vanilla or almond extract to the melted butter. Experiment with spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger. Use brown sugar or coconut sugar for a richer flavor.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the elephant ears before baking.
- Savory Option: Skip the cinnamon-sugar and use grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.
- Air Fryer Option: Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Troubleshooting:
- Not Crispy: Roll dough thinner, ensure oven is hot enough, bake longer.
- Burning: Reduce oven temperature, cover with foil during last few minutes.
- Cinnamon-Sugar Falling Off: Use more butter, press mixture into dough.
- Dough Too Sticky: Add more flour to work surface.