BeaverTails are a delicious Canadian pastry that resembles the shape of a beaver’s tail. These deep-fried dough pastries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often topped with a variety of sweet toppings. They are perfect for a special treat or dessert!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus more for frying)

For the Toppings (Customize to Your Preference):

• Cinnamon sugar (1/4 cup sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon)
• Nutella or chocolate spread
• Maple syrup
• Sliced bananas
• Chopped nuts
• Whipped cream
• Fresh berries

Timing

Making BeaverTails takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for frying and cooling.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Roll and Shape

1. Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, turn it onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick.
2. Cut into Shapes: Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into oval shapes, resembling beaver tails.

Step 3: Fry the BeaverTails

1. Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry Dough: Carefully place the shaped dough into the hot oil, frying a few at a time. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Drain: Remove the BeaverTails from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Add Toppings

1. Top the Pastries: While still warm, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or spread with Nutella. Add any additional toppings you like, such as bananas, nuts, whipped cream, or berries.
2. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade BeaverTails!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of BeaverTails (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	300
Protein	4g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	10g (varies with toppings)

Tips for Customization

• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different toppings like caramel sauce, peanut butter, or fruit preserves.
• Healthier Option: Bake instead of fry for a lighter version, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
• Seasonal Toppings: Use seasonal fruits or festive toppings for holidays, such as pumpkin spice or peppermint.

Conclusion

BeaverTails are a fun and indulgent treat that can be customized to suit any taste. This easy recipe brings the taste of this beloved Canadian pastry to your kitchen, making it perfect for gatherings or a special dessert!