Name: Nigerian Puff Puff
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Nigerian
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup powdered milk; 1 tablespoon instant yeast; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder; 1/2 tablespoon salt; 1 1/2 cups water; Oil for frying

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I enjoy making Nigerian Puff Puff whenever I crave something sweet, fluffy, and comforting. These golden fried dough balls are a popular West African street snack known for their airy texture and lightly sweet flavor. I fry them until perfectly golden on the outside while keeping the inside soft and pillowy. They are perfect for gatherings, afternoon snacks, or whenever I want a simple homemade treat.

Nigerian Puff Puff

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 cups all-purpose flour

½ cup sugar

¼ cup powdered milk

1 tablespoon instant yeast

1 teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon cinnamon powder

½ tablespoon salt

1 ½ cups water

Oil for frying

Directions

I start by combining the flour, sugar, powdered milk, instant yeast, baking powder, cinnamon powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. I slowly pour in the water while mixing until a smooth and slightly thick batter forms.

Next, I cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen cloth. I let the batter rest in a warm place for about 40 minutes so it can rise and become airy.

Once the batter has risen, I gently stir it to release some of the air bubbles while keeping the mixture light and fluffy.

I heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Using a spoon or my hand, I scoop small portions of batter and carefully drop them into the hot oil. I fry the puff puff in batches and turn them occasionally until they become evenly golden brown.

Finally, I remove the puff puff with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain the excess oil. I like serving them warm with tea, juice, or any favorite drink.

Servings and timing

I usually prepare this recipe in about 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish.

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Resting time: 40 minutes

Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: about 220 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes like to change the flavor slightly depending on the occasion. One variation I enjoy is adding a small amount of vanilla extract to the batter for extra aroma. I also like sprinkling powdered sugar over the finished puff puff for a sweeter dessert-style snack. Occasionally, I mix in a pinch of nutmeg instead of cinnamon to create a different warm spice flavor. For a more indulgent treat, I drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over the fried puff puff before serving.

Storage/Reheating

When I have leftovers, I store the puff puff in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. If I want to keep them longer, I place them in the refrigerator for up to three days.

To reheat them, I prefer using an oven or air fryer at a low temperature for a few minutes so they warm up without becoming soggy. I sometimes microwave them for about 10 to 15 seconds when I want a quick option, though the outside will be softer.

FAQs

Why is my puff puff not fluffy?

I find that puff puff becomes dense when the batter does not rise properly. I always make sure the yeast is active and allow enough resting time in a warm place so the batter can become airy.

Can I make puff puff without powdered milk?

Yes, I can still make puff puff without powdered milk. The powdered milk adds a mild richness, but the recipe will still work well if I simply leave it out.

How do I shape puff puff evenly?

I like using a spoon or my fingers to scoop the batter. Sometimes I lightly squeeze the batter between my fingers and thumb so it drops neatly into the oil as a round ball.

What oil is best for frying puff puff?

I prefer using neutral oils such as vegetable oil or canola oil because they handle high heat well and do not overpower the flavor.

Can I freeze puff puff?

Yes, I can freeze puff puff after they cool completely. I place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. When I want to eat them, I reheat them in the oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

I always enjoy preparing Nigerian Puff Puff because it is simple, comforting, and incredibly delicious. The soft interior and golden crispy exterior make every bite satisfying. Whether I prepare them for a gathering, a quick snack, or a sweet treat with a drink, this recipe always brings warmth and joy to the table.

📖 Recipe:

Nigerian Puff Puff

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Nigerian Puff Puff is a popular West African fried dough snack with a soft, airy interior and a lightly crisp golden exterior. These sweet, fluffy dough balls are simple to make and perfect for gatherings, snacks, or serving with tea or coffee.

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, powdered milk, instant yeast, baking powder, cinnamon powder, and salt.
Gradually pour in the water while mixing until a smooth, slightly thick batter forms.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen cloth and let the batter rest in a warm place for about 40 minutes until it becomes airy and rises.
After resting, gently stir the batter to release some air bubbles while keeping the mixture light.
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Scoop small portions of batter with a spoon or your fingers and carefully drop them into the hot oil.
Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until the puff puff are evenly golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil before serving warm.