Golden Breakfast Fried Dough Rounds

These Golden Breakfast Fried Dough Rounds are a delightful treat that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for breakfast or brunch. With their golden-brown hue and light, airy texture, they’re reminiscent of donuts but simpler to make. Serve them plain or with your favorite toppings like honey, jam, powdered sugar, or even savory dips!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Crispy & Fluffy: The frying process creates a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender and light.
• Customizable: Enjoy them sweet or savory—top with sugar, syrup, or cheese for variety.
• Perfect for Sharing: These rounds are ideal for family breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or festive mornings.

 Ingredients (Makes 12–15 Rounds):

• 3½ cups (390 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp (5 g) fine salt
• 1 tbsp (15 g) unsalted butter , softened
• 1 cup (200 ml) lukewarm water , plus extra for dusting
• Vegetable oil , for deep-frying

 Step-by-Step Directions:

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt until evenly distributed.

Step 2: Incorporate Butter

1. Add the softened butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Add Water Gradually

1. Pour in the lukewarm water in a slow, steady stream while stirring with your hand or a wooden spoon. Continue stirring until the dough begins to come together.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

1. Transfer the shaggy dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead vigorously for 5–6 minutes , until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. If needed, dust with a bit more flour to prevent sticking.

Step 5: First Rest

1. Shape the dough into a ball, place it back in the bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest for 15 minutes . This relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 6: Divide & Second Rest

1. Divide the dough into two equal portions . Cover them again and let rest for another 15 minutes to ensure maximum tenderness.

Step 7: Roll Out Thinly

1. On a floured surface, roll one portion of dough as thinly as possible (1–2 mm ) using a lightly floured rolling pin. The thinner the dough, the more it will puff when fried.

Step 8: Cut Circles

1. Using a small bowl or cookie cutter (6–8 cm diameter ), press out rounds from the dough. Gather the scraps, re-roll, and cut until all the dough is used. Repeat with the second portion of dough.

Step 9: Heat Oil

1. In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, pour enough vegetable oil to reach 2–3 cm up the sides. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) . To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil—it should sizzle and float to the surface immediately.

Step 10: Fry the Dough Rounds

1. Carefully slide 2–3 dough rounds into the hot oil, ensuring they have enough space to puff up. Fry for 1–2 minutes per side , or until golden brown and crispy.
2. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried rounds from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the fried dough rounds warm, plain or with your favorite toppings. Popular options include:
   • A dusting of powdered sugar
   • A drizzle of honey or maple syrup
   • A dollop of jam or Nutella
   • A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar
   • Savory options like cheese or herb-infused butter

Tips for Success:

• Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) to ensure even frying without burning or undercooking.
• Thin Rolling: Roll the dough as thinly as possible for maximum puffiness and crispiness.
• Reuse Scraps: Don’t waste the dough scraps—re-roll them gently and cut more rounds for frying.
• Storage: Fried dough rounds are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day . Reheat briefly in the oven or toaster oven to restore crispiness.

Nutritional Information (per round, makes 15):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 4g

These Golden Breakfast Fried Dough Rounds are a simple yet irresistible way to start your day. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, these crispy, golden treats are versatile enough to suit any taste. Perfect for special occasions or lazy weekend mornings, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Fry them up, top them as you like, and enjoy the magic of homemade fried dough!