Finally, as they cool off just a bit, I take a generous shake of powdered sugar and cinnamon. Watching the white cloud coat the crispy sticks is one of my favorite moments! Once they’re slightly cooled, I can hardly contain my excitement before I grab one—crispy, sugary, and simply irresistible.
Pro Tips for Best Results
From my experience, I’ve learned that the type of oil you use can drastically change the flavor and texture. I found canola oil works wonderfully, but don’t forget to watch its temperature! Oil that’s too cool will result in sodden sticks, while overheated oil is a sure way to scorch. Additionally, I like to let my batter rest for a few minutes before piping; this helps to ensure a fluffier texture.
I also discovered that the stick size makes a difference in cooking. I initially tried making them thicker, but they didn’t cook evenly. A thinner stick ensures that crispy bites throughout make for a much more enjoyable experience. Finally, don’t skip the powdered sugar finish! It makes all the difference visually and ties in all the sweet flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I made the mistake of not heating my oil sufficiently several times. I thought I could “eyeball” it, but believe me, that led to more batches ending up in the trash than I care to admit. I recommend always using a thermometer to ensure you’re around 375°F—there’s no room for guesswork here! Another common pitfall is overcrowding the pan. If you add too many sticks at once, they will lower the oil temperature and cook unevenly. Trust me, spacing them out makes a world of difference! (See the next page below to continue…)