This Beer Fried Dough with Cinnamon Sugar is straight-up fair food for grown-ups — a golden, puffy treat with a malty kick from the beer and a warm coating of cinnamon sugar.

It’s crispy on the outside, soft and airy inside, and dangerously easy to devour. Whether you call them fry bread, elephant ears, or just pure fried joy, this version gets an upgrade from the beer batter base.

Perfect for weekend treats, parties, or turning your kitchen into the best part of a summer fair.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup beer (lager, cream ale, or wheat beer — nothing too hoppy)
• 1 tbsp melted butter or neutral oil
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Cinnamon Sugar:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Optional: pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth

Beer Tip: Use a crisp lager, cream ale, or blonde ale for light texture and mild flavor. Avoid IPAs — the bitterness clashes with the sweetness.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Add beer and melted butter. Stir with a spatula or your hands until a soft, shaggy dough forms.

Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead just until smooth — about 1–2 minutes.

Let rest, covered, for 15–20 minutes.

Step 2: Mix Cinnamon Sugar

In a shallow bowl, stir together sugar, cinnamon, and any optional spices. Set aside.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or pot, heat 2–3 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C).

While it heats, divide dough into 6–8 pieces. Roll each into a rough circle or oval about ¼ inch thick.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

Fry dough pieces one or two at a time, 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown and puffed.

Drain briefly on paper towels, then immediately toss in cinnamon sugar to coat while still warm.

Serving Suggestions

• Top With:
  • Drizzled honey or maple syrup
  • Chocolate or caramel sauce
  • Whipped cream or ice cream
  • A squeeze of lemon for contrast
• Serve With:
  • Spiced hot cider
  • Milk stout or cream ale
  • Coffee or chai for dunking

Beer Pairing

• In the dough:
  • Vienna lager
  • Cream ale
  • Hefeweizen or blonde ale
• In your glass:
  • The same beer used in the dough
  • Milk stout or porter for dessert pairing
  • Radler for a citrusy contrast

Final Thoughts

Beer Fried Dough with Cinnamon Sugar is sweet, crispy, and comfort food at its finest — with a malty beer twist that sets it apart from anything you’d get at a fair.

Simple to make, impossible to resist, and always best served warm with sticky fingers and a cold drink.

Cheers to deep-fried joy, cinnamon clouds, and beer in your batter! 🍩🍺🔥

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From crispy beer-battered classics to bold mains, cheesy dips, breads, and even desserts — these roundups bring together the best of beer-infused cooking. Whether you’re hosting a game day, planning a backyard BBQ, or just experimenting in the kitchen, there’s a beer recipe collection for every craving.

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• 🍻 Beer Mac & Cheese – Creamy, quick& easy, made to impress.
• 🍰 Beer-Infused Desserts & Sweets – Sweet treats made better with beer.
• 🎉 Oktoberfest & Seasonal Ideas – Perfect pairings for parties, fall feasts, and festive gatherings.