Are you craving something sweet and crispy? Cinnamon Sugar Elephant Ears are the perfect snack for you! Made with just a few simple ingredients, these treats are easy to whip up and are sure to impress your friends and family. Follow along as I share tips, tricks, and variations to make your cinnamon sugar dreams come true! Let’s dive in and create this delicious recipe together.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for a last-minute dessert or snack.
- Deliciously Flaky: The use of puff pastry results in a light and flaky texture that is simply irresistible.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add toppings like chocolate or caramel to suit your taste.
- Fun to Make: Shaping the elephant ears adds a playful element to your baking, making it enjoyable for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
– 1 sheet of puff pastry
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Optional ingredients
– Flour for dusting
– Pinch of sea salt
In this recipe, I focus on simple, tasty ingredients. The puff pastry gives these treats a flaky base. Granulated sugar adds sweetness, while ground cinnamon brings warmth and spice. Unsalted butter is key for richness.
I also suggest using flour for dusting. This prevents sticking when rolling out the pastry. A pinch of sea salt is optional but can enhance the flavor. It balances the sweetness and adds depth.
These ingredients come together to create a snack that’s hard to resist. You can enjoy them warm, fresh from the oven, or save some for later. The choice is yours!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation steps
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Roll out the puff pastry to 1/8 inch thickness.
Start by preheating the oven. This step is key for a crispy finish. While the oven heats, grab your puff pastry. Lay it on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to thin the pastry evenly. Aim for a rectangle shape. This will help it puff nicely.
Mixing ingredients
– Combine sugar and cinnamon.
– Brush pastry with melted butter.
In a bowl, mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon. Stir until well combined. This blend is what makes your elephant ears sweet and tasty. Next, take melted butter and brush it over the rolled pastry. Cover every inch to add flavor.
Shaping and baking
– Fold pastry and slice.
– Bake until golden brown.
Now, fold each long side of the pastry toward the center. Overlap them slightly. This creates the shape of elephant ears. Slice the folded pastry into 1-inch thick pieces. Gently flatten each piece. Space them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake these treats for about 12-15 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and a puffed-up shape. Enjoy the warm, sweet aroma that fills your kitchen!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the recipe
To achieve the best puff in your elephant ears, work with cold puff pastry. Thaw it in the fridge, not on the counter. This keeps the butter in the dough firm. The cold butter creates steam during baking, which helps the pastry puff up nicely.
Add extra sugar if you want a sweeter treat. After you bake the elephant ears, sprinkle more cinnamon sugar on top. This creates a crunchy layer that enhances the flavor. A pinch of sea salt also boosts sweetness. It gives a nice contrast to the sugar.
Serving suggestions
For presentation, serve your elephant ears warm on a fun plate. Dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a pretty touch. You can also arrange them in a fan shape for an eye-catching display.
Pair your elephant ears with sauces for dipping. Chocolate sauce or caramel sauce works well. The warm pastries and sweet dips create a treat that everyone will love. Enjoy your tasty snack with friends or family!
Pro Tips
- Use Cold Puff Pastry: Ensure your puff pastry is cold when rolling it out. This helps achieve a flakier texture as it puffs in the oven.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different spices such as nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a unique twist.
- Don’t Skimp on Butter: Generously applying melted butter not only enhances flavor but also helps the cinnamon sugar adhere better to the pastry.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the elephant ears to cool slightly before serving. This helps them maintain their shape and texture.
Variations
Flavor variations
You can have fun with different flavors for your elephant ears. Here are two tasty ideas:
– Chocolate cinnamon elephant ears: Add chocolate to the mix! Melt some chocolate and brush it over the pastry before sprinkling on the cinnamon-sugar. This adds a rich twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
– Apple cinnamon elephant ears: Chop up some apples and mix them with cinnamon and sugar. Spread this mix on the pastry before folding. The apples add a fresh, fruity note to your treat.
Dietary modifications
If you need to change the recipe for dietary needs, here are some options:
– Gluten-free options: Use gluten-free puff pastry instead of regular puff pastry. Many brands offer great options that still puff up nicely. Just check the package for baking times.
– Vegan substitutions: Replace the butter with a plant-based option. You can use coconut oil or vegan butter. Also, check that your puff pastry is vegan-friendly to keep this treat plant-based.
These variations and modifications keep your elephant ears fun and inclusive for everyone!
Storage Info
How to store
To keep your cinnamon sugar elephant ears fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to keep them crispy and tasty. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you want to enjoy them later, take them out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating tips
When you’re ready to eat your elephant ears again, the oven is your best friend. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the elephant ears on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat them for about 5 to 7 minutes. This will bring back their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy. Enjoy your tasty treat just like fresh!
FAQs
Common questions
What do I do if my pastry is too sticky?
If your pastry is too sticky, sprinkle a little flour on your work surface. This helps make it easier to roll. If it still sticks, chill it in the fridge for 15 minutes. This cools the butter and makes rolling easier.
Can I make elephant ears ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the elephant ears in advance. Cut and shape them, then store them in the fridge for a day before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold.
Recipe and ingredient queries
What is puff pastry?
Puff pastry is a light, flaky pastry made from layers of dough and butter. It puffs up when baked due to steam. This creates a deliciously airy texture that is perfect for sweet treats like elephant ears.
Can I use pre-made cinnamon sugar?
Absolutely! Using pre-made cinnamon sugar can save you time. Just ensure it tastes good to you, as different brands may vary in flavor. You can always add a pinch of sea salt for an extra flavor boost!
You now have the tools to make delicious elephant ears. We covered ingredients, steps for prep, and tips for success. Remember, puff pastry should be thin and flaky for the best results. Don’t hesitate to explore fun flavor variations or dietary swaps. Store them right to keep that fresh taste. Baking can be creative and rewarding. Enjoy every crispy bite you mak
