A true Canadian classic, homemade Beaver Tails brings the nostalgia of winter festivals and summer fairs to your kitchen. These golden, deep-fried pastries are a beloved treat across Canada, known for their crispy exterior and soft, fluffy center. Whether enjoyed during a snowy winter day or a warm summer evening, they’re a must-have indulgence for any occasion.
The beauty of Beaver Tails lies in their versatility. Traditionally dusted with cinnamon sugar, they can also be topped with maple syrup, Nutella, or fresh fruit for a delicious twist. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of crunch and sweetness, making them a favorite among kids and adults.
Making them at home is easier than you might think! With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this iconic Canadian dessert and customize it to your liking. Whether sharing them with family or treating yourself, homemade Beaver Tails are a fun and delicious way to bring a little Canadian tradition into your kitchen.
Homemade Beaver Tails
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- ¾ cup lukewarm water
- ½ cup lukewarm whole milk
- 1 tbsp white sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- Vegetable oil for frying
Glaze
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter browned
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
*Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together warm water, milk, and yeast.
- Add sugar, flour, and salt. Mix using a stand mixer with a dough hook until combined, then knead for 1 minute until soft and elastic.
- Transfer dough to a buttered bowl, cover with plastic wrap and a towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
Make the Glaze
- Brown the butter in a pan over medium heat (5–6 minutes), then transfer to a bowl.
- Stir in vanilla, maple syrup, and powdered sugar until smooth. Set aside.
Fry & Assemble
- Divide risen dough into 6–7 pieces and roll into balls. Flatten into thin ovals, oiling hands as needed.
- Heat 1 inch of oil to 350°F in a frying pan.
- Fry dough in batches until golden and bubbly on both sides. Drain on a wire rack.
- Brush with maple glaze and optionally dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm.
Now that you’ve mastered homemade Beaver Tails, it’s time to enjoy the sweet rewards. Whether you stick with the classic cinnamon sugar or get creative with toppings, these crispy golden pastries are sure to be a hit. Perfect for sharing with family and friends or keeping all to yourself.
So grab a warm drink, take a huge bite, and savor this Canadian classic. If you try new toppings, be sure to share your creations. We’d love to see how you make these iconic treats your own.
