Print

Homemade Fry Bread Recipe

4.5 from 698 reviews

This Homemade Fry Bread recipe delivers a classic chewy and golden fried bread that’s perfect for a snack or accompaniment. Made from simple pantry staples, the dough is rolled into circles with a small hole in the center and fried until puffed and golden crispy. Serve warm with butter, honey, and a splash of fresh lemon juice for a delightful taste experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup nonfat dry milk powder
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 41/2 teaspoons shortening
  • 2/3 to 3/4 cup water

For Frying

  • Oil for deep-fat frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)

Optional Toppings

  • Butter
  • Honey
  • Fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, nonfat dry milk powder, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the shortening using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Form Dough Balls: Gradually add 2/3 to 3/4 cup of water to the dry ingredients, mixing until a firm dough ball forms. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes to relax the gluten.
  3. Shape the Fry Bread: Roll each dough ball into a 6-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife, cut a small 1/2-inch diameter hole into the center of each circle to allow for even frying and puffing.
  4. Heat Oil for Frying: In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat enough oil over medium-high heat to submerge the fry bread partially. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
  5. Fry the Bread: Fry each dough circle one at a time in the hot oil, cooking for about 1 minute on each side or until puffed and golden brown. Use tongs to flip carefully. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature.
  6. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried bread from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm, optionally topped with butter, honey, and a drizzle of fresh lemon juice for enhanced flavor.

Notes

  • The hole in the center prevents the bread from puffing unevenly during frying.
  • Keep the oil temperature steady to avoid greasy or undercooked bread.
  • Shortening can be substituted with vegetable shortening or lard for traditional flavor.
  • Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution and best frying results.
  • Fry bread is best enjoyed fresh and warm but can be reheated in a skillet.

Keywords: Fry Bread, Homemade Fry Bread, Native American Fry Bread, Fried Bread Recipe, Easy Fry Bread