Cinnamon Sugar Elephant Ears are a nostalgic treat that bring back memories of county fairs and cozy kitchens. These golden, crispy pastries puff up beautifully and get coated in a simple cinnamon-sugar mixture that melts into every flaky layer. Whether you’re making them from scratch or starting with store-bought dough, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love These Elephant Ears

Crispy & Golden: Every bite has that satisfying crunch you crave.
Sweet & Spiced: Coated in the perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar.
Easy to Make: Minimal ingredients and no special tools required.
Fun for Everyone: A family favorite that’s great for both kids and adults.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Elephant Ears

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this simple and delicious fair-style treat:

– Refrigerated Pie Crust or Puff Pastry (thawed if frozen)
– Granulated Sugar
– Ground Cinnamon
– Unsalted Butter, melted
– Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting

Suggested Measurements:

• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or 1 sheet puff pastry)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• Optional: 1 tbsp powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon together. Set aside.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface. Roll out pie crust or puff pastry into a large thin circle or oval. If you prefer, you can cut the dough into smaller sections to make mini elephant ears.

Step 3: Brush with Butter & Coat in Sugar
Brush the entire surface with melted butter. Generously sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, pressing gently so it sticks.

Step 4: Fold & Roll (Optional for Palmiers)
For palmiers-style elephant ears, fold both sides inward toward the center until they meet, then fold again to form a log. Slice into ½-inch pieces and flatten slightly.
Or for fair-style elephant ears, skip folding and keep the dough flat for frying.

Step 5: Cook (Fry or Bake)
– To Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place dough pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden.
– To Fry (traditional method): Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Fry flattened dough rounds one at a time for 30–60 seconds per side until puffed and golden. Drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Finish & Serve
While warm, dust with additional cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar if desired. Serve immediately!

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

10 minutes

Total Time:

20 minutes

Servings:

4–6 elephant ears (or more if making minis)

Serving Suggestions

– Serve with chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping
– Top with whipped cream and fresh fruit for a dessert twist
– Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on warm ears for a delicious contrast
– Dust with powdered sugar for a classic finish

Extra Tips

– Don’t skip pressing in the sugar—it helps caramelize and stick.
– Use puff pastry for extra flakiness if you want more lift.
– Watch the oil temp if frying—too hot and they’ll burn, too cool and they’ll absorb too much oil.
– Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to bring back the crisp.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use homemade dough?
Absolutely! A basic yeast dough or pastry dough works beautifully if you want to make it from scratch.

2. Can I make them ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and sugar mix ahead, but cook just before serving for best crispiness.

3. Can I use air fryer?
Yes! Brush with butter, sprinkle sugar, and air fry at 375°F for 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp.

4. Are they freezer-friendly?
You can freeze cooked elephant ears and reheat in the oven or air fryer until crisp.

5. Can I add other spices?
Definitely try nutmeg, cardamom, or even pumpkin spice for variations.

6. Is butter necessary before the sugar?
Yes, it helps the sugar stick and adds richness to the flavor.

7. Can I make these gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free pie crust or puff pastry. Be sure to check your other ingredients are certified gluten-free too.

8. Can I make them savory?
Sure! Skip the sugar and top with garlic butter, cheese, or herbs instead.

9. Can I store leftovers?
Store cooled elephant ears in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Re-crisp in a hot oven before serving.

10. What if I don’t have a rolling pin?
Use a glass bottle or anything cylindrical to gently roll out the dough.

Conclusion

These Cinnamon Sugar Elephant Ears are pure joy crisp, sweet, and utterly irresistible. Whether you bake them, fry them, or toss them in the air fryer, they deliver that nostalgic, sugary satisfaction with every bite. Whip up a batch for your next party, movie night, or just because you deserve a sweet treat this easy and delicious!

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