Description
Golden, puffy, and soft on the inside with a lightly crisp exterior, this homemade Fry Bread is a simple, versatile classic made from basic pantry ingredients. Perfect for topping with honey and sugar for a sweet treat or using as a base for savory tacos and flatbreads.
Ingredients
2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp granulated sugar
1/2 tsp instant or active dry yeast
1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 cup whole milk, warmed
1 tbsp vegetable oil, plus more for frying
Instructions
- Melt the butter and allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Warm the milk until just comfortable to the touch, then combine it with the melted butter.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Pour the milk-butter mixture into the dry ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Lightly flour your hands and knead the dough a few times to form a smooth ball. Add 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the bowl, coat the dough, cover with a damp towel, and let rest for 15–20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet or cast-iron pot to 350°F (175°C).
- After resting, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Gently shape each into a 5–6 inch round using your fingers—do not roll or overwork the dough.
- Carefully fry one or two pieces at a time, 30 seconds to 1 minute per side, until golden brown and puffed. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining dough.
- Serve warm with your favorite sweet or savory toppings.
Notes
Use milk for a richer flavor, or substitute water for a lighter texture.
Keep oil at 350°F (175°C) for the best crispness and minimal greasiness.
For a sweet version, top with powdered sugar, honey, or cinnamon sugar.
For savory use, add taco toppings, chili, or garlic butter and herbs.
Store leftovers at room temperature up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fry bread
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg