Maple Beaver Tails – Classic Canadian Street Food

Why You’ll Love It

Maple Beaver Tails are an iconic Canadian street food that combines crispy fried dough with the unmistakable sweetness of maple syrup. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth anytime. This recipe replicates that cozy, nostalgic taste at home with simple ingredients and easy steps. Whether you’re hosting friends or craving comfort food, these beaver tails deliver a delightful treat with every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Maple syrup for topping
• Powdered sugar (optional)
• Ground cinnamon (optional)

Substitutions: Use almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk for a dairy-free version. Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten intolerance. You can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Allow it to activate for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Add warm milk, melted butter, salt, and flour into the yeast mixture. Stir until all ingredients come together into a dough.
3. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour.
5. Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into oval or teardrop shapes measuring about 6 to 8 inches long.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully fry each piece until golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes per side.
7. Transfer fried dough onto paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. While still warm, drizzle each beaver tail generously with maple syrup. For extra flavor, sprinkle powdered sugar and cinnamon as desired.

Expert Tips

Make sure your yeast is fresh and the water temperature is just right (not too hot) to activate the yeast effectively. Roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent cooking. Avoid overcrowding the frying pan to keep oil temperature steady.

For the crispiest texture, fry the beaver tails until golden but don’t leave them too long or they might become tough. Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature precisely.

Maple syrup topping can be warmed slightly to enhance its pourability. You can also add toppings like chopped nuts, chocolate sauce, or fresh fruit for variety.

Storage

Store leftover Beaver Tails in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain crispness, reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven rather than a microwave.

For longer storage, freeze cooked beaver tails in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Freeze up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen for best texture.

Variations

• Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend formulated for baking.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute milk and butter with almond or oat milk and coconut oil.
• Refined Sugar-Free: Use natural sweeteners such as maple syrup or agave in place of granulated sugar.

FAQ

What exactly are Maple Beaver Tails?

They are fried dough pastries shaped like a beaver’s tail, traditionally topped with maple syrup and enjoyed as a popular Canadian street food snack.

Can I make Maple Beaver Tails ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it overnight. Fry fresh before serving to maintain the best texture.

How can I store leftover Maple Beaver Tails?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

Are Maple Beaver Tails gluten-free?

Traditional recipes use all-purpose flour, but you can easily use a gluten-free blend to make them gluten-free.

Can I use syrup other than maple?

Yes, alternatives like honey or fruit syrups can be used, but maple syrup is the classic choice for authentic flavor.

Call to Action

Have you tried this Maple Beaver Tails recipe? Leave a comment below with your experience or any twists you added! Don’t forget to rate and save this recipe for your next cozy snack craving. Share it with friends who love Canadian treats and explore more delicious snacks like Easy Weeknight Dinners on our site. For extra recipe inspiration, visit Food Network.