Name: Homemade Youtiao (Chinese Deep-Fried Dough Sticks) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1/2 cup filtered water; 1 large egg; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 3/4 teaspoon salt (plus more for serving); 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed; Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

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Introduction

Youtiao, also known as Chinese fried dough sticks, are crispy, airy, and golden snacks perfect for breakfast or with congee. These puffed-up delights are simple to make at home with just a few ingredients and a little patience. Enjoy them fresh and warm for the best flavor and texture.

A white plate with many golden brown fried dough sticks piled on it; some are whole, long, and smooth with a slightly crispy texture, and a few are broken to show a fluffy, light interior with a soft, airy crumb; the plate sits on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup filtered water
1 large egg
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt (plus more for serving)
2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cubed)
Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the water and egg until smooth. In a separate large bowl or stand mixer bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 2: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Pour in the egg-water mixture and mix using a dough hook attachment until no dry flour remains.
Step 3: Lightly flour a surface and knead the dough for about 30 seconds until smooth. Shape it into a log roughly 3/4-inch thick, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 4: Remove the dough from the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. Roll the dough into a 10-inch by 6-inch rectangle.
Step 5: Cut the dough into ten long strips. To create the traditional paired texture, place two strips on top of each other, moisten one side lightly with water, then press them together along the center with a chopstick.
Step 6: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or deep pan to 400°F (204°C). Carefully lower one paired strip into the hot oil. Use chopsticks or tongs to turn and gently stretch the dough continuously, helping it puff evenly.
Step 7: Fry the youtiao until light golden, about 90 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Optionally, sprinkle with a pinch of salt while still warm.
Step 8: Serve the youtiao warm for the best texture and flavor. They are best enjoyed fresh.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter texture, be gentle when stretching the dough in the oil—this helps it puff evenly and stay airy inside.
If you don’t have a chopstick, you can use the back of a spoon or your fingers to press the dough strips together.
Try serving youtiao alongside warm soy milk or congee for a traditional breakfast experience.
You can substitute butter with vegetable shortening for a slightly different flavor and flakier texture.

Storage

Store leftover youtiao in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. They lose their crispiness quickly, so reheat them briefly in a hot oven or toaster oven to restore some crunch. Avoid microwaving as it can make them chewy.

How to Serve

A close-up image of several golden-brown churros stacked closely together on a white marbled surface, showing their ridged texture and crispy exterior. On top of the pile lie two pieces of churro broken in half, revealing the airy, soft inside with a light cream color and a slightly chewy texture. The churros' deep golden color contrasts with their pale inner layers, emphasizing the crunchy outside and tender crumb inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and frying. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping.

What oil is best for frying youtiao?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for frying. This ensures the youtiao cooks evenly and crisps up without burning.