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fry cake

How to Make Perfect Fry Cakes

Here’s a detailed recipe combining the best elements of two classic approaches:

Ingredients
  

  • Frying Oil: Vegetable or canola enough to fill your fryer or pot with at least 2 inches of oil
  • Dry Ingredients:
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Wet Ingredients:
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 3 tablespoons melted cooled butter
  • Optional Toppings: Sugar cinnamon sugar, or powdered sugar

Instructions
 

  • Heat the Oil: Preheat your frying oil to 375°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy to ensure even cooking and prevent greasiness.
  • Prepare the Dough:
  • In a large bowl, sift together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter until well combined.
  • Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough tender.
  • Shape the Fry Cakes:
  • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it to a thickness of 1/2 inch.
  • Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large and one small) to create the fry cakes and their holes.
  • Let the cut dough rest for 5 minutes to ensure even frying.
  • Fry the Cakes:
  • Carefully place a few fry cakes into the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Use a slotted spoon to remove the cakes and drain them on a cooling rack placed over paper towels or newspaper.
  • Add Toppings: While still warm, coat the fry cakes in your desired topping.