Aunt Emma’s Fried Bread – The Black Family Reunion Cookbook – Black Foodie Finder

A Classic Southern Fried Bread with Old-Fashioned Comfort

Golden, crispy on the outside, and soft and fluffy inside, Aunt Emma’s Fried Bread is a timeless comfort food that has long been enjoyed across Southern kitchens. Similar to fry bread and old-fashioned fried dough, this recipe transforms a simple yeast dough into warm, pillowy pieces coated in cinnamon sugar. Whether served for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat, it’s a recipe that brings generations together around the table.

Featured in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook, this family favorite showcases the cookbook’s celebration of comforting homemade breads and treasured recipes passed from one generation to the next.

Ingredients

(Listed exactly as they appear in the cookbook.)

• 1 package active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water (110° to 115°F)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons Crisco Shortening
• 2½ – 3 cups all-purpose flour, divided
• Crisco Shortening or Crisco Oil for deep frying
• Cinnamon sugar

Makes: 4 dozen pieces

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sprinkle the yeast over the warm water and let it stand until softened.
2. Add the sugar, salt, Crisco, and 1½ cups of the flour. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until everything is blended.
3. Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat for about 3 minutes. Stir in enough of the remaining flour to form a soft dough.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic.
5. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, turning it once so the top is lightly coated. Cover and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
6. Heat 2 to 3 inches of Crisco Shortening or Crisco Oil to 365°F in a deep fryer or deep saucepan.
7. Roll the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness and cut it into 1-inch pieces. Stretch each piece slightly.
8. Fry the dough pieces for about 1½ minutes, or until golden brown, turning once during cooking.
9. Drain on paper towels, then toss the warm fried bread in cinnamon sugar before serving.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

• Keep the oil at 365°F for evenly cooked, golden fried bread.
• Coat the bread in cinnamon sugar while still warm so it sticks beautifully.
• Serve immediately for the best soft interior and crisp exterior.
• Add a drizzle of honey or powdered sugar for an extra-special dessert.
• Pair with coffee or hot chocolate for a comforting breakfast or snack.

About the Creator

The National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW) compiled The Black Family Reunion Cookbook to preserve African American culinary traditions through treasured family recipes, regional favorites, and cherished food memories. The cookbook celebrates the role of homemade meals in strengthening families, preserving heritage, and passing recipes from one generation to the next.

The Black Family Reunion Cookbook | National Council of Negro Women

Where to Find This Recipe

This recipe is adapted from The Black Family Reunion Cookbook: Recipes & Food Memories by the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. The cookbook is a remarkable collection of family recipes, heritage dishes, and personal food memories that honor African American cooking traditions and the joy of gathering around the table.