sweet fry bread recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
sweet fry bread recipe
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The Best sweet fry bread recipe

I’ve been making sweet fry bread for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. The recipe is simple, yet it’s so versatile – you can serve it as a side dish, use it as a base for breakfast tacos, or even top it with ice cream for a sweet treat. I love that it’s a traditional recipe from the Native American communities of the Southwest, where my ancestors are from.

The combination of the crispy fried dough and the sweet honey syrup is absolute perfection. My kids can’t get enough of it, and I’m happy to oblige – after all, what’s better than making memories with your family through food? When I’m in the kitchen, whipping up a batch of sweet fry bread, I feel connected to my heritage and to the people who came before me.

It’s more than just a recipe – it’s a way to honor my roots and share that love with my loved ones. My grandmother used to make this for our family gatherings, and now I carry on that tradition. Whether we’re having a big ol’ family dinner or just a quiet night in, sweet fry bread is always on the menu.

And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make! Just mix together some flour, sugar, eggs, and milk, add in some oil and honey, and you’re good to go.

I like to use a cast-iron skillet to cook mine – there’s something about the way the heat distributes that makes it extra crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. I’ve tried other methods before, but this one always yields the best results.

Sweet Fry Bread

Sweet Fry Bread

4.5 from 932 votes

Sweet fry bread is a fluffy, golden fried dough dusted with powdered sugar. It is quick to make with simple pantry ingredients and perfect for a dessert or snack.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup warm milk
1/4 cup warm water
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Oil for deep frying

For Topping

2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
2Make a well in the center and pour in the warm milk, warm water, and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.
3Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
4Knead gently for about 2 minutes until the dough is smooth and no longer sticky, adding a little extra flour if needed.
5Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
6On a floured surface, flatten each ball into a 6-inch round disc about 1/4 inch thick, using a rolling pin or your hands.
7Pour oil into a deep skillet or pot to a depth of 1 inch and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
8To test, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface immediately.
9Carefully slide one dough disc into the hot oil and fry for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until golden brown and puffed.
10Use a slotted spoon to flip it once the bottom is deep golden and the edges are crisp.
11Transfer the fried bread to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
12Repeat with the remaining dough discs, allowing the oil to return to temperature between batches.
13Dust the warm fry bread generously with powdered sugar and cinnamon if desired.
14Serve immediately while still warm for the best texture.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Rolling pin
Deep skillet or pot
Slotted spoon
Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 5mg🧂Sodium: 410mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 11g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, you can bake the discs at 425°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway, but the texture will be less airy. Adjust the sugar to your taste or add a drizzle of honey instead of powdered sugar.

Watch Video Of How Sweet Fry Bread Works

I always say that sweet fry bread is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re celebrating a special event or just need something comforting on a tough day.

My family loves when we have gatherings around this recipe – we’ll often serve it as a side dish or even use it as a base for our favorite breakfast tacos.

And don’t even get me started on leftovers – reheated in the oven or toaster oven with some fresh fruit on top makes for an amazing dessert or snack.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Fry Bread

Q: What kind of flour should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using all-purpose flour for this recipe. You can also experiment with different types of flour if you want – whole wheat will give it a nuttier flavor, while cake flour will make it lighter and more delicate.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix together the dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge overnight. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before cooking.

Q: How do I keep the honey syrup from crystallizing?

To prevent crystallization, you can add a small amount of water to the honey syrup before serving. This will help keep it smooth and pourable.

Q: Can I substitute any of the ingredients?

You can experiment with different types of sugar or honey if you want – just keep in mind that they’ll affect the flavor slightly.

Q: How do I store leftover sweet fry bread?

You can store leftover sweet fry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing.

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