There’s a certain joy that comes from simplicity in cooking, and today I’m excited to share a delicious remedy for those tired of fast food routines: Crispy Youtiao, or Chinese Doughnut Sticks. Picture this: the first bite reveals a golden crust that crackles, giving way to a tender and light center that captures just the right amount of air—pure bliss.
I stumbled upon this recipe while exploring traditional Chinese breakfast items, and I quickly found it’s a fantastic way to elevate your morning routine or snack game. It might look impressive, but I assure you, anyone can whip these up with just a handful of pantry staples. Whether savored solo or paired with your favorite dipping sauce, these savory delights are a sure-fire way to impress family and friends alike. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making these irresistible Chinese Doughnut Sticks that are destined to become a household favorite!
Why are Chinese Doughnut Sticks a must-try?
Unmatched texture: The crispy exterior juxtaposed with a soft, airy center creates a delightful contrast that’s simply irresistible.
Easy preparation: No culinary degree needed! This straightforward recipe allows anyone to indulge in homemade goodness.
Versatile enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or an appetizer, you can dip them in sauces or enjoy them plain.
Crowd-pleaser: These delectable treats are sure to wow your family and friends, making them the star of any gathering.
Tantalizing aroma: The fragrance of frying dough will fill your kitchen, drawing everyone in for a taste!
For those craving more easy-to-prepare delights, don’t miss my other homemade snack recipes.
Chinese Doughnut Sticks Ingredients
Transform your cooking with these simple, yet delicious crispy Chinese doughnut sticks!
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – 500 g – Essential for that perfect texture, giving the dough its structure.
- Baking Powder – 2 tbsp – This leavening agent ensures your dough rises beautifully, creating a light center.
- Baking Soda – 1 tsp – Helps enhance browning and adds a slight tang to the flavor.
- Salt – 1 tsp – Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Sugar – 2 tbsp – Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements of the dough.
- Egg – 1 large – Provides richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Water – 200 ml – Hydrates the flour for the right consistency in your dough.
- Vegetable Oil – 3 tbsp – Contributes to the elasticity of the dough while frying.
For Deep-Frying
- Oil for Deep-Frying – Use enough to submerge the dough sticks for that crispy finish!
How to Make Chinese Doughnut Sticks
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Combine all the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar—in a stand mixer or large bowl. Add the egg and vegetable oil, then mix until a dough forms, about 5 minutes.
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Rest the dough by covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it sit for 15 minutes if mixing by hand or until smooth and elastic if using a mixer.
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Roll out the dough into a long rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Brush the top lightly with oil and set it uncovered to rest for 2 hours, or if short on time, just 1 hour.
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Slice the rectangle into 3 cm wide strips. Create a line in the center of one strip using a wet chopstick, then press another strip over it to form the signature shape.
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Heat oil in a deep pot to 180-190°C (400°F). This ensures the dough sticks fry evenly and develop that crispy exterior.
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Fry the prepared strips by gently stretching them and placing them in the hot oil. Fry until they turn a beautiful golden brown, around 1 minute per side, keeping an eye on them!
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Drain the Youtiao on a cooling rack to maintain their crispiness, ensuring they’re deliciously crunchy when served.
Optional: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Doughnut Sticks
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Chinese Doughnut Sticks fresh for the best flavor, but they can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 day in an airtight container.
Fridge: If you need to store them longer, keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days, wrapped in plastic wrap or in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your dough sticks for up to 1 month. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight bag.
Reheating: To bring back their crispiness, reheat from frozen in a toaster oven, preheated to 180°C (350°F), for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy again.
Expert Tips for Crispy Chinese Doughnut Sticks
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Knead Consistently: Ensure your dough is thoroughly mixed until smooth to avoid dense or gummy sticks. The right texture is key for crispy Chinese doughnut sticks.
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Patience in Resting: Don’t rush the resting times! Allow the dough to rest properly to develop the desired elasticity and rise—this leads to a lighter, airier final product.
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Correct Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is hot enough (180-190°C / 400°F) before frying. Too cold oil can make them soggy, while too hot can burn the outside before the inside cooks.
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Stretch Evenly: When shaping the strips, stretch them gently and evenly before placing in the oil. This helps maintain their delicate structure and crisp factor.
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Cool on a Rack: Always drain the fried Youtiao on a cooling rack, not paper towels. This method prevents steam from making them soggy, keeping them perfectly crispy!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Chinese Doughnut Sticks are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them fresh whenever you crave! You can prepare the dough (steps 1 and 2) up to 24 hours in advance—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can roll out and cut the dough (steps 3 and 4) and keep the strips in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, covering it with a clean kitchen towel for up to 3 hours at room temperature. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat your oil and fry them as instructed; they’ll taste just as delicious as freshly made!
Chinese Doughnut Sticks Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and add some personal flair to your Chinese Doughnut Sticks!
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful twist on texture and taste.
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Pumpkin Spice: Add 1/2 cup of pureed pumpkin and a teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the dough for a fall-inspired flavor that’s simply irresistible.
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Savory Herb: Mix in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped herbs like chives or parsley for a fragrant and savory edge to your dough.
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Sweet Cinnamon: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on the cooked sticks while they’re still warm for a sweet cinnamon treat that’s perfect for snacking.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the dough mixture for an exciting and spicy version that adds heat to your palate!
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Cheese Lover’s Delight: Fold in grated cheese like cheddar or mozzarella before shaping for a cheesy, mouthwatering surprise in every bite.
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Nut Butter Glaze: Drizzle warm peanut butter or almond butter over the sticks after frying for a luscious, nutty finish that elevates the overall flavor experience.
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Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Serve with melted dark chocolate for an indulgent dessert option—perfect for those with a sweet tooth!
What to Serve with Crispy Youtiao?
Imagine how wonderful it would be to complement the crunchy delight of these golden sticks with a harmonious assortment of flavors!
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Soy Dipping Sauce: A savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sesame oil enhances the umami profile of Youtiao. It adds a deliciously salty contrast.
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Chili Oil: For those who crave a little heat, a drizzle of chili oil elevates the experience, providing a zesty kick that will awaken your taste buds.
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Scallion Pancakes: Pairing these crispy doughnut sticks with flaky scallion pancakes makes for a delightful brunch spread that bursts with flavor and texture.
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Congee: This creamy rice porridge offers a soothing counterpart to the crunch of Youtiao. Dip them into the warm congee for a heartwarming breakfast.
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Fancy Tea: Accompany your meal with a fragrant jasmine or oolong tea. The floral notes of the tea balance the savory richness of the Youtiao beautifully.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: The bright, juicy sweetness of seasonal fruits balances the fried dough’s richness. A refreshing accompaniment that adds color and nutrition.
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Coconut Milk Dessert: For a sweet finish, serve Youtiao with a side of velvety coconut milk drizzled over fresh fruits for an exotic twist.
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Sesame Balls: Round out your meal with these crispy, sweet treats that offer another delightful texture while harmonizing the flavors of your spread.
Indulging in these pairings will surely create a delightful feast that elevates your experience with Chinese Doughnut Sticks!
Crispy Chinese Doughnut Sticks Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right flour for Chinese Doughnut Sticks?
Absolutely! For the best results, use high-quality all-purpose flour, which provides the necessary structure and texture for the dough. Look for flour with a protein content of around 10-12%. Avoid cake flour, as it won’t give the same chewiness and crispiness to your Youtiao.
How should I store leftover Chinese Doughnut Sticks?
To enjoy your Chinese Doughnut Sticks at their best, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 day to keep them crisp. If you need to keep them longer, wrapping them in plastic and placing them in the refrigerator will preserve them for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool down completely before storing.
Can I freeze Chinese Doughnut Sticks?
Yes, you can freeze them! To do this, first cool your fried sticks completely. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be stored for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat from frozen in a toaster oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes or until crispy.
What if the dough is too sticky or too dry?
Good question! If your dough is too sticky, you can sprinkle a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, kneading it in until it reaches a workable consistency. Conversely, if it’s too dry, add water, a teaspoon at a time, until the dough comes together smoothly. The mixing should always yield a soft, elastic dough that isn’t overly tacky.
Are there any allergy considerations with Chinese Doughnut Sticks?
Definitely. Common allergens in this recipe include wheat (from all-purpose flour) and eggs. If you’re preparing this for someone with allergies, consider using a gluten-free flour blend formulated for baking and an egg substitute like a flaxseed meal or applesauce. Always check labels if you’re using pre-packaged ingredients to ensure they’re safe.
How long do the cooked Youtiao remain fresh?
Cooked Chinese Doughnut Sticks are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept at room temperature for up to a day. If stored properly in an airtight container, they can retain flavor in the refrigerator for about 3 days. For maximum flavor and texture, I recommend reheating them in the oven or a toaster oven instead of the microwave to help regain their crispiness.
Crispy Chinese Doughnut Sticks That'll Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine all the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar—in a stand mixer or large bowl. Add the egg and vegetable oil, then mix until a dough forms, about 5 minutes.
- Rest the dough by covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it sit for 15 minutes if mixing by hand or until smooth and elastic if using a mixer.
- Roll out the dough into a long rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Brush the top lightly with oil and set it uncovered to rest for 2 hours, or if short on time, just 1 hour.
- Slice the rectangle into 3 cm wide strips. Create a line in the center of one strip using a wet chopstick, then press another strip over it to form the signature shape.
- Heat oil in a deep pot to 180-190°C (400°F). This ensures the dough sticks fry evenly and develop that crispy exterior.
- Fry the prepared strips by gently stretching them and placing them in the hot oil. Fry until they turn a beautiful golden brown, around 1 minute per side, keeping an eye on them!
- Drain the Youtiao on a cooling rack to maintain their crispiness, ensuring they're deliciously crunchy when served.