Here’s a fun and delicious Fried Carnival Braids recipe inspired by fairground treats! These sweet, crispy, twisted dough strips are similar to funnel cake or elephant ears but shaped into cute braids. Perfect for a festive breakfast, dessert, or snack.
Fried Carnival Braids (Twisted Doughnuts)
Prep Time: 20 mins (+ 1 hour rise) | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 1 hour 35 mins
Servings: 8–10 braids
Dough Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup warm milk (~110°F)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup melted butter (or oil)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Frying & Topping:
- Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
- ½ cup granulated sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon (for coating)
- Powdered sugar (optional)
- Chocolate sauce or caramel drizzle (optional)
Instructions:
1. Make the Dough:
- In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix warm milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, kneading until smooth (~5 mins by hand or mixer).
- Cover and let rise 1 hour (or until doubled).
2. Shape the Braids:
- Punch down dough and roll into a ½-inch-thick rectangle.
- Cut into ½-inch-wide strips (about 8–10 strips).
- Take 3 strips, pinch tops together, and loosely braid. Pinch ends to seal.
3. Fry to Perfection:
- Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry 1–2 braids at a time for 1–2 mins per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
4. Coat & Serve:
- Toss warm braids in cinnamon sugar or dust with powdered sugar.
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel if desired.
Tips:
- No yeast? Use 1 tbsp baking powder + 1 cup buttermilk instead (skip rising).
- Air Fryer Option: Brush with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 mins, flipping halfway.
- Add flavor: Mix lemon zest into dough or dip in maple syrup.
Enjoy these crispy, sugary braids—they’ll vanish like magic!
