Maple Beaver Tails – Easy Canadian Street Food Treat

Discover how to make Maple Beaver Tails, a classic Canadian street food snack. Perfectly sweet with maple glaze, easy to prepare and enjoy anytime.

Maple Beaver Tails

Why You’ll Love It

Maple Beaver Tails are a quintessential Canadian street food treat loved for their crispy exterior and soft, doughy inside. Infused with rich maple syrup, this snack delivers a sweet, comforting flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic taste or introducing this classic to new friends, it’s easy and fun to make at home.

This recipe brings the iconic flavors of Maple Beaver Tails directly to your kitchen with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a taste of Canada without the wait in line at a festival. You’ll find this recipe ideal for family gatherings, quick snacks, or even a sweet breakfast treat.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (or instant yeast as a substitute)
• 1/2 cup warm water (temperature about 110°F)
• 3/4 cup warm milk (can substitute almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (reduce or replace with maple syrup for refined sugar-free)
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour blend can be used)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (coconut oil for dairy-free)
• Vegetable oil for frying (can use canola or sunflower oil)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (ensure 100% pure for authentic flavor)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar for topping
• Cinnamon (optional, for cinnamon sugar topping)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm water and let it bloom for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, warm milk, sugar, flour, salt, and melted butter. Stir to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut into oval shapes. Shape by creating finger indentations on the sides to mimic the classic beaver tail shape.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry each piece for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
7. While still warm, brush each beaver tail generously with maple syrup and then sprinkle sugar or cinnamon sugar on top.
8. Serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar.

Expert Tips

To achieve perfect Maple Beaver Tails, make sure your oil temperature is steady at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked snacks. Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer for accuracy.

If you prefer less sugar, reduce the topping sugar or swap it for cinnamon only. For a richer flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to your dough.

This dough freezes well. You can portion and freeze before frying, then fry directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to cooking time.

Storage

Store leftover beaver tails in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh and warm. For longer storage, freeze after frying and topping. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven before serving.

Variations

• Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose baking flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and butter with coconut oil.
• Refined-Sugar-Free: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar in dough and toppings.

FAQ

What are Maple Beaver Tails?

Maple Beaver Tails are a traditional Canadian street food pastry, fried dough shaped like a beaver’s tail and coated in maple syrup and sugar.

Can I make Maple Beaver Tails ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate overnight. Fry them fresh on the day you want to serve for the best texture.

How do I store Maple Beaver Tails?

Keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or freeze them if you want to store longer.

Can I bake instead of fry Maple Beaver Tails?

Frying gives the best texture and crispness, but baking at 400°F for 10-12 minutes can be a lighter alternative.

Is there a gluten-free Maple Beaver Tails recipe?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend and adjust liquids slightly. The texture will differ but they’ll still be delicious.

Call to Action

If you enjoyed this recipe for Maple Beaver Tails, please leave a comment below with your experience or any tweaks you tried. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with friends who love Canadian treats. For more easy snacks and street food recipes, explore our Easy Weeknight Dinners and check out trusted resources like Food Network.