Ina Garten Elephant Ears Recipe

This Ina Garten Elephant Ears Recipe is a crispy and buttery pastry, which includes puff pastry and granulated sugar. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 20 minutes.

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Ina Garten Elephant Ears Recipe Ingredients

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

How To Make Ina Garten Elephant Ears

1. Preheat and prep surface: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Sprinkle half of the sugar mixture (sugar, cinnamon if using, and salt) onto a clean work surface.
2. Roll out the pastry: Lay the thawed puff pastry on the sugared surface. Sprinkle the remaining sugar mixture evenly over the top and gently press it into the dough.
3. Fold the dough: Fold the long sides of the puff pastry inward to meet in the center. Fold each side inward again so they nearly touch. Finally, fold one half over the other to form a compact log.
4. Slice and bake: Slice the rolled dough into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Place cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing apart.
5. Bake and flip: Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and caramelized. Flip halfway through for even browning.
6. Cool and serve: Let the elephant ears cool on a wire rack before serving.

Recipe Tips

• Can I use cinnamon sugar?
  Yes, combining cinnamon with sugar adds a warm, spiced flavor.
• Why flip halfway through baking?
  Flipping helps caramelize both sides evenly for a crisp finish.
• Can I make these ahead?
  Yes, shape and slice the dough ahead, then bake just before serving.
• How do I store leftovers?
  Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Can I use homemade puff pastry?
  Absolutely, but frozen puff pastry saves time and works great.

What To Serve With Elephant Ears

These flaky pastries are perfect with:

• A hot cup of coffee or tea
• Fresh fruit or berries
• A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream
• Whipped cream or Greek yogurt
• Chocolate drizzle or caramel sauce

How To Store Elephant Ears

Room Temperature:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat:
Re-crisp in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes if desired.

Elephant Ears Nutrition Facts

• Calories: ~140 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~17g
• Protein: ~2g
• Fat: ~7g
• Sugar: ~8g
• Sodium: ~85mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and baking methods used.

FAQs

Can I freeze unbaked elephant ears?
Yes, slice and freeze the dough log. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Can I make them savory instead?
Yes, use grated cheese, herbs, or spices in place of sugar.

Why are they called elephant ears?
Because of their distinctive ear-like, curled shape when baked.

Do I need to chill the dough again before baking?
Not necessary, but chilling helps maintain shape during baking.

Can I use brown sugar?
Yes, it gives a deeper caramel flavor, but may bake faster.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Strawberry Shortcakes Deconstructed Recipe
• Ina Garten Brownie Pudding Recipe
• Ina Garten Pear Tart Recipe