Chinese Sesame Doughnuts

These crunchy, deep-fried sesame balls are one of my favorite treats during the Chinese New Year. In Cantonese, it means 'laughing dates' because these sesame balls crack open like a laughing mouth. They carry the meaning of bringing lots of laughter and happiness to your family. They are very easy to make, crunchy, and aromatic. Cool before storing them in dry, air-tight containers.

• Preparation Time: 40 mins
• Cooking Time: 4 mins
• Total Time: 44 mins
• Calories: 209 Calories

Ingredients

• ½ cup white sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups cake flour
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons cake flour
• vegetable oil for deep frying
• 5 tablespoons hot water
• ½ cup raw sesame seeds, or as needed

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Mix sugar and water together in a small bowl until melted. Let cool, at least 15 minutes. Add egg; mix until combined.

Step 2

Combine 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons flour, baking powder, and baking soda in a large bowl. Mix in sugar-egg mixture and 2 tablespoons oil with a wooden spoon. Knead by hand until dough sticks together, adding 1 teaspoon water at a time if too dry. Wrap dough in plastic wrap; let rest for 30 minutes.

Step 3

Unwrap dough and place on a lightly floured work surface. Roll out into long tubes. Cut tubes into small pieces and roll pieces into balls about 1/2-inch wide.

Step 4

Spray balls lightly with water. Place sesame seeds in a shallow dish. Dip dough balls into the sesame seeds and roll to press in the seeds.

Step 5

Heat deep-frying oil in a large saucepan over high heat. Add dough balls; reduce heat to low. Cook, turning occasionally, until lightly golden brown, 4 to 6 minutes. Drain on paper towels.