Welcome to Love With Recipes, where we bring you delightful treats and nostalgic flavors! Today, we’re sharing a recipe for a delightful dessert known as Chinese Pretzels. Despite the name, these crispy delights aren’t really pretzels, nor are they authentically Chinese, but they have earned their place as a cherished treat, fondly remembered as “Ferris Wheels” from store shelves. Whether enjoyed as they are or with a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness, these crispy treats are sure to win hearts. Let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe.
Chinese Pretzels Recipe
Description:
These crispy treats, affectionately known as Chinese Pretzels or Ferris Wheels, offer a delightful crunch with a hint of sweetness. They are quick to make and perfect for enjoying as is or sprinkled with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Recipe Yield: 6 dozen pretzels
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups cornstarch
- 1 cup flour
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Oil:
Begin by heating 2 inches of oil in a deep pan or pot to 385°F (195°C). This high temperature ensures that the pretzels will become crispy and golden. -
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of cornstarch, 1 cup of flour, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt. This dry mix forms the base of the batter and provides the crispiness you’re aiming for. -
Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup of evaporated milk, 1 1/4 cups of water, and 1 egg. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. -
Form the Batter:
Gradually add the milk mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until the batter is smooth and well combined. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the rosette iron but not too runny. -
Heat the Rosette Iron:
Place the rosette iron into the hot oil to heat it up. Make sure the iron is hot before dipping it into the batter. This step is crucial to ensure the pretzels release easily from the iron. -
Dip and Fry:
Carefully dip the heated rosette iron into the batter. Be sure to only dip it just enough to cover the top of the iron, without submerging it completely. Then, place the iron into the hot oil. -
Release and Cook:
Gently shake the iron to release the pretzel into the hot oil. Heat the iron briefly between batches to ensure each pretzel cooks evenly. Cook the pretzels until they are delicately browned, turning them once to ensure even cooking. -
Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pretzels from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil. Stir the batter occasionally as you work, as the cornstarch can settle at the bottom. -
Optional: Add Sweetness:
For a sweeter treat, sprinkle the pretzels with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a delightful touch and enhances the flavor of these crispy snacks.
Enjoy these crispy, golden pretzels as a fun snack or dessert! They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends or simply indulging in on your own. Whether you’re reminiscing about old favorites or discovering a new treat, these pretzels are sure to bring a smile to your face. 😊
