Simple Puff puff Recipe: Easy Steps

Puff puff is a flour-based snack most Nigerians enjoy and a staple in many West African countries. Each culture has its unique spin on this beloved treat, but it remains a favourite, especially when served as part of a small chops platter (spring roll and samosa). Known for its soft, round shape and irresistibly sweet taste, this delightful snack can be found everywhere—from street vendors to grand celebrations—spreading joy wherever it’s served.

While today’s recipe focuses on a simple, plain version, it’s worth noting that this treat comes in various delicious adaptations. You can explore different flavours and textures with options like:

 

• Rich Puff puff: Enhanced with butter or extra milk for a richer flavour.
• Vegan Delight: Dairy-free and egg-free, yet still fluffy and tasty.
• Gluten-Free Treat: Perfect for those avoiding gluten, with an adapted flour mix.
• Chocolate Indulgence: For chocolate lovers, adding cocoa transforms this classic snack.
• Carrot Variation: Includes grated carrots for a healthier twist.
• Milky Version: A creamy version that adds milk powder for extra richness.
• Savoury Minced Beef: A savoury option filled with seasoned minced beef.
• Coconut Flavour: Infused with coconut flakes for a tropical flair.
• Spicy Kick: A fiery take with added pepper for those who like it hot.
• Banana Sweetness: Incorporates mashed bananas for natural sweetness.
• Avocado Creaminess: Soft and creamy, with the healthy goodness of avocado.
•  Sausage Version: A creative twist where sausages are wrapped in puff puff dough and deep-fried.

 

Back to the Simple Puffpuff Recipe

But for now, let’s get back to basics. Below is my simple puffpuff recipe that you can easily make at home. It’s straightforward, has minimal ingredients, is beginner-friendly, and guarantees the classic puff puff taste you know and love.

But before we dive in, I’d love to know—what’s your favourite puffpuff memory? Was it at a party, a school event, or maybe from a street vendor? Share your story in the comments below!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon yeast
• 1/4 cup sugar (half of 1/4 cup)
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon any flavour of your choice (e.g., vanilla, banana)
• 1/2 egg (optional)

Procedure:

 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

• Begin by measuring your flour and sifting it into a large mixing bowl. Add the salt, and stir to combine.

 2: Activate the Yeast

• In a separate bowl, measure out your yeast and mix it with sugar and warm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is active and ready to use.

 3: Mix the Batter

• Make a well in the centre of the flour mixture and pour in the proofed yeast, vegetable oil, flavouring, and egg (if using). Mix everything together until you have a smooth batter. The batter should not be too thick and too light. If it’s too thick, add a little water; if it’s too thin, add a bit more flour.

 4: Allow the Batter to Rise

• Cover the bowl with a cling film, if you don’t have any cling film, worry not. You can use any nylon bag you have to cover your bowl and place it in a warm spot. Allow the batter to rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it has tripled in size. This is where the magic happens—your batter will be light and airy!

 5: Fry the Puffpuff

• Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep pot over medium heat for deep frying.
• Make sure the oil is hot, but not too hot. If it’s too hot, the dough will burn on the outside and remain uncooked inside.
• Scoop the batter using your hand, a measuring spoon, or a puff-puff dispenser, depending on the method you prefer, but I prefer using my hand for better control. Carefully drop the batter into the oil.
• Fry on low to medium heat, turning the puff-puff occasionally so it cooks evenly and turns golden brown.
• Keep an eye on the heat. If it’s too high, they will burn. If it’s too low, they will absorb too much oil.
• Continue frying in batches until all the batter is used up.

 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the puff puff with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm and enjoy!

 

Tip: Be patient with the frying process—using low heat will ensure that your puffpuff cooks through without burning.

 

What’s Next?

I’m planning to share more snack recipes that are just as easy and delicious as this one. Which Nigerian snack would you like to learn about next? Let me know in the comments, and who knows, your suggestion might be my next blog post!

Remember:

This blog isn’t just about cooking—it’s about connecting over our shared love for food. I can’t wait to hear from you and see your puff puff creations. Let’s keep the conversation going!