As I walked through the bustling streets of a traditional Chinese market, the enticing aroma of deep-fried goodness caught my attention. That’s when I first encountered youtiao—those irresistible Chinese doughnut sticks that seemed to beckon me with their crispy, golden-brown exteriors. Making youtiao at home is easier than you might think, and it’s a delightful way to bring a taste of China right to your breakfast table. This crispy youtiao recipe not only serves as a delicious vegetarian option but also elevates your morning routine into a comforting experience. Best enjoyed paired with steaming soy milk, these little treats are addictive and guaranteed to impress family and friends. Are you ready to bring a touch of tradition into your kitchen? Let’s dive into the simple steps to create these fantastic doughnut sticks together!

Why is youtiao so beloved?

Crispy perfection: These youtiao are golden-brown and boast a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, airy center.

Easy homemade joy: With just a few straightforward ingredients, you can whip up this traditional treat without the hassle of complex techniques.

Breakfast bliss: Youtiao pairs beautifully with soy milk, making breakfast feel like a special occasion every day.

Versatile snack: Not only are they a classic breakfast item, but they also work as a delicious snack any time of the day.

Crowd-pleaser: Impress your family and friends with these irresistible doughnut sticks that are sure to vanish quickly!

Elevate your next meal by serving these youtiao with a side of sweetened condensed milk or a hint of spicy sauce for a fun twist. Enjoy!

Youtiao Ingredients

For the Dough
• All Purpose Flour – Used for the dough structure, ensure it’s unsifted for proper texture.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a light and fluffy texture; specialized youtiao agents can enhance results but aren’t essential.
• Baking Soda – Provides additional browning and deep color; use sparingly to avoid altering the flavor.
• Egg – Adds richness and softness to the dough; adjust water content if using a larger egg for the perfect balance.
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for deep-frying, and brushing to prevent sticking during assembly; any neutral oil works well for frying.
• Salt – A small but important ingredient that enhances the flavors beautifully.
• Sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness, helping to balance the overall flavor of the youtiao.

Enjoy making these youtiao—they’ll surely become a favorite at your breakfast table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Youtiao-Chinese Doughnut Sticks

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Whisk together until evenly mixed, then add a beaten egg and a few tablespoons of water. Knead the mixture until a soft, non-sticky dough forms, about 7–9 minutes on low speed or 10–12 minutes by hand. Once smooth, cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 1 hour.

Step 2: Shape the Dough
After resting, transfer the dough to a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle, roughly 1 inch thick. Brush a thin layer of vegetable oil over the top of the dough to prevent sticking. Fold the rectangle in half, then cover it again and allow it to rest for 2 hours, which helps develop the youtiao’s airy texture. If you’re short on time, a 1-hour rest will suffice.

Step 3: Cut the Dough
Once the dough has rested, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice it into 3 cm strips. Make sure each cut is clean to ensure even frying later on. Gather the strips and lay them on a floured parchment paper to keep them from sticking together as you prepare the next step, ensuring proper spacing between each piece.

Step 4: Assemble for Frying
To create the signature youtiao shape, wet a chopstick and gently create a vertical line down the center of one dough strip. Lay another strip on top of it, using the chopstick mark as a guide. Press down firmly to adhere the two strips together, allowing the youtiao to puff beautifully while frying. Repeat this process for each pair of strips.

Step 5: Deep-Fry the Youtiao
In a deep, heavy-bottomed pan, heat vegetable oil to 180–190°C (400°F). Carefully stretch each assembled youtiao slightly before sliding them into the hot oil. Fry for about 1 minute, rolling them occasionally for even cooking. Watch for a beautiful golden-brown color that indicates they are done. After frying, drain them on a baking rack to remove excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Savor
Once all your youtiao are cooked and cooled slightly, serve them immediately while they’re warm and crispy. These delightful Chinese doughnut sticks pair wonderfully with steaming soy milk or your favorite dip. Enjoy the airy texture and crispy shell that make youtiao a beloved treat, perfect for breakfast or any time of day!

How to Store and Freeze Youtiao

Fridge: Store any leftover youtiao in an airtight bag for up to 7 days to keep them fresh and crispy.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze youtiao in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To revive your youtiao, re-fry them briefly in hot oil on low heat until crispy, or oven heat at 180°C (356°F) for 4-5 minutes for a delightful crunch.

Enjoy the traditional taste of youtiao whenever the craving strikes!

Make Ahead Options

Prepare youtiao ahead of time to save precious moments during your busy mornings! You can mix and knead the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its freshness. Once the dough has rested, shape and cut the strips, then let them sit for about 2 hours before frying—this step can also be done in advance. For optimal convenience, assemble the youtiao and keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When ready to indulge, simply deep-fry them as directed for perfectly crispy youtiao, savoring the warmth and comfort of this traditional treat with ease!

Youtiao-Chinese Doughnut Sticks: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore your creativity and customize these delightful youtiao with my suggestions below!

Dairy-Free: Replace the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option without compromising texture.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for a surprising kick. These spicy youtiao will awaken your taste buds!
Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like chives or cilantro for an aromatic variation that complements the dough’s flavor beautifully.
Crispy Coating: Before frying, dust the shaped youtiao with a mix of sesame seeds for an extra layer of crunch and flavor.
Sweet Option: Stir in a tablespoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a subtly sweet, aromatic spin on your traditional youtiao.
Sweetened Dip: Serve with a blend of sweetened condensed milk and a hint of vanilla as a dip, transforming them into a delightful dessert treat!
Crunchy Texture: For an extra crunch, experiment by incorporating finely chopped nuts into the dough. They add a delicious texture contrast to the airy youtiao.
Nutty Flavor: Substitute part of the all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour for a unique twist that adds flavor and depth to your youtiao.

Embrace your inner chef and adapt these crispy sticks to match your preference. If you love exploring more flavors, consider pairing them with rich soy milk or complementing them with structured dishes like congee for a heartier meal. Enjoy every bite!

Expert Tips for Youtiao-Chinese Doughnut Sticks

Oil Temperature: Maintain the frying oil between 180–190°C (400°F) for the perfect puff. If it’s too low, your youtiao will not achieve that delightful airy texture.
Dough Resting: Allow the dough to rest adequately—2 hours is ideal for a light, fluffy result. If you’re pressed for time, a minimal 1-hour rest will work, but avoid shortcuts for the best outcome.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady. Overcrowding can lead to soggy youtiao instead of the crispy perfection you’re aiming for.
Trim Strips Neatly: Cut the dough strips uniformly at 3 cm to ensure even cooking. A clean cut will also help them puff up nicely while frying.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your twist! Incorporating herbs or spices into the dough can elevate your youtiao experience, giving it a unique flavor profile.

What to Serve with Crispy Youtiao: Traditional Chinese Doughnut Sticks

Pair your homemade youtiao with delightful accompaniments that will elevate your breakfast experience.

Steaming Soy Milk: The classic pairing, its warm, creamy texture perfectly complements the crunchy youtiao, creating a beloved breakfast combination.
Congee: This comforting rice porridge adds a soothing, savory flavor that beautifully balances the sweetness of youtiao.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side dish with crisp textures and a light dressing offers a crunchy contrast, enhancing the overall meal enjoyment.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: For a delicious twist, serve youtiao with this sweet, creamy dip. It adds a luxurious sweetness that pairs perfectly.
Spicy Dipping Sauce: A bit of heat can take your youtiao to the next level! A simple chili sauce brings excitement, creating a vibrant contrast to their mild flavor.
Iced Herbal Tea: A chilled herbal tea offers a refreshing sip that balances the warmth of youtiao, perfect for those warmer mornings.

Feel free to mix and match these pairings to create a breakfast spread that’s sure to impress family and friends!

Youtiao (Chinese Doughnut Sticks) Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for youtiao?
You should use all-purpose flour, ideally unsifted, to ensure the proper texture and structure of your youtiao dough. This allows for the right amount of gluten development, resulting in a beautifully fluffy center.

How should I store leftover youtiao?
When storing leftover youtiao, place them in an airtight bag in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. This helps maintain their crispiness. To reheat, you can re-fry them briefly in hot oil or heat them in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 4-5 minutes to restore their delightful crunch.

Can I freeze youtiao? How?
Absolutely! To freeze youtiao, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply re-fry or oven-heat them as previously mentioned.

What should I do if my youtiao do not puff up properly?
If your youtiao do not puff up as expected, it could be due to the oil temperature being too low. Ensure your oil is maintained between 180–190°C (400°F) during frying. Additionally, ensure you allow the dough to rest adequately and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to damp dough that won’t puff.

Are youtiao suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, youtiao are a great vegetarian option! With simple ingredients like flour, baking powder, and salt, these delicious Chinese doughnut sticks fit well within a vegetarian diet. However, always double-check any personal dietary restrictions just in case.

Can dogs eat youtiao?
While youtiao are not toxic to dogs, they are not recommended for canine consumption due to their high oil and salt content. It’s best to enjoy these yummy treats yourself and stick to dog-safe snacks for your furry friends!