Newfoundland toutons are a classic Canadian breakfast treat, made from fried bread dough and traditionally served with molasses or butter. This simple yet delicious dish is a staple in Newfoundland and Labrador, where it has been enjoyed for generations. With a crispy golden exterior and a soft, fluffy inside, toutons are a comforting and hearty way to start the day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic East Coast Treat – A traditional Newfoundland favorite with deep-rooted history.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a beginner-friendly recipe.
Crispy & Fluffy – The perfect balance of crunchy outside and soft, airy inside.
Versatile – Serve with molasses, butter, maple syrup, or even jam for different flavors.
Great for Any Meal – Enjoy as a breakfast, snack, or side dish with savory toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 tablespoons melted butter
¼ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For Serving:

Molasses or maple syrup
Butter

Directions

Make the Dough:
- In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add melted butter and the yeast mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Toutons:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 8-10 pieces.
- Flatten each piece slightly into ½-inch thick rounds.
Fry the Toutons:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry each piece for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffy.
- Drain on paper towels.
Serve:
- Enjoy warm with molasses, butter, or maple syrup.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8-10 toutons

Variations

Savory Toutons: Serve with crispy bacon, eggs, or baked beans for a heartier meal.
Sweet Toutons: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before serving for a dessert-like twist.
Baked Toutons: Instead of frying, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden.
Stuffed Toutons: Add a small piece of cheese inside each dough round before frying for a gooey surprise.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store leftover toutons in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze toutons in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave for 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

1. What are toutons?

Toutons are fried bread dough, a traditional Newfoundland dish often served for breakfast with molasses or butter.

2. Can I make toutons without yeast?

Yes, you can use baking powder instead, but the texture will be more like a biscuit than traditional toutons.

3. Why is molasses the traditional topping?

Molasses was a staple ingredient in Newfoundland’s early history, making it a classic pairing for toutons.

4. Can I use leftover bread dough to make toutons?

Yes! Many Newfoundlanders traditionally use leftover bread dough from homemade bread baking.

5. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, use 2 teaspoons of instant yeast and skip the proofing step—just mix it directly into the flour.

6. What type of oil is best for frying?

Vegetable oil or canola oil works best for frying toutons due to their neutral flavors.

7. How do I keep toutons from getting greasy?

Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F/175°C) and avoid overcrowding the pan.

8. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough overnight and bring it to room temperature before frying.

9. What other toppings can I use?

Try honey, jam, peanut butter, or Nutella for a sweet twist, or cheese and ham for a savory version.

10. Are toutons the same as bannock?

No, bannock is a different type of Indigenous fried bread, often made without yeast and using baking powder instead.

Conclusion

Newfoundland toutons are a delicious and simple fried bread treat that bring a taste of East Coast Canada to your kitchen. Whether enjoyed with molasses, butter, or maple syrup, these fluffy and crispy delights are perfect for breakfast or a comforting snack. Try making them at home and experience a piece of Newfoundland’s culinary tradition!

Newfoundland Toutons

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Author: Mari
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 8–10 toutons 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A traditional Newfoundland breakfast treat made of fried bread dough, served with molasses or butter for a deliciously crispy and fluffy bite. A comforting and classic East Coast favorite!

Instructions

Make the Dough:
- In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Knead the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Add melted butter and the yeast mixture.
- Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
Shape the Toutons:
- Punch down the dough and divide into 8-10 pieces.
- Flatten slightly into rounds about ½ inch thick.
Fry the Toutons:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry each piece for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and puffy.
Serve:
- Enjoy warm with molasses, butter, or maple syrup!

Notes

For a lighter texture, let the shaped dough rest for 10-15 minutes before frying.
For a baked version, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Toutons pair wonderfully with crispy bacon or homemade jam!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Breakfast / Bread
Method: Fried
Cuisine: Canadian (Newfoundland)