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    Home » Recipes » Breakfast Recipes

    Toutons (Newfoundland Recipe for Fried Dough)

    Published: March 11, 2020 Updated: March 11, 2020 / By: Dawn | Girl Heart Food 36 Comments

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    Close-up of toutons with butter and molasses over top.

    Toutons, or fried bread dough, is a traditional Newfoundland recipe that is super simple to prepare, but incredibly delicious. Serve with a generous drizzle of molasses and you’re set for a real treat!

    Close-up of toutons with butter and molasses over top.

    Hi friends!

    Today I’m sharing another traditional Newfoundland recipe (toutons) that I’ve enjoyed all my life!

    “Toutons” is not exactly pronounced how it looks. I’m no linguistic expert, but it’s pronounced like “pow” (only with a “t”) and “tons.” P.S. and not “tow” as in “towboat.” Make sense?

    Across much of the world, you can usually find some sort of fried bread.

    I mean, bread is delicious on its own, but fried? Now you’re taking things to another level.

    It’s no surprise that I love me some carbs. I grew up with homemade bread around all the time. My grandfather used to have his own bakery. Plus, mom loves to bake and makes a wicked good batch of white bread.

    So, naturally, toutons were a big part of growing up.

    And I bet if you asked any other Newfoundlander, they’d know (or have tried) toutons.

    Toutons are not just made at home, either. If you visit any local restaurant in Newfoundland, chances are there will be toutons on the menu.

    They’re often enjoyed for breakfast or brunch on their own or with eggs, sausage, bacon, homemade baked beans, and the like for one hearty meal.

    What Are Toutons?

    Toutons are essentially fried bread dough, a Newfoundland pancake if you will. Traditionally, they were often fried in pork fat. These days, though, it’s usually butter and canola oil.

    When I’ve enjoyed toutons at home, it’s usually when there was homemade bread being prepared.

    If there was any leftover dough, it was reserved for toutons. Truthfully, one would always make sure there was leftover dough because toutons are just so good.

    Touton dough rolled into little balls on a blue plate.

    Toutons Recipe

    Full details on how to make toutons are in the recipe card below, but here are the basics:

    1. Roll leftover white bread dough into balls, about 1.5 ounces each. You’re basically looking for a ball of dough roughly the size of a large egg.
    2. Flatten balls into a disc, cover, and let rest for a little bit to slightly fluff up/rise.
    3. Add some butter and canola oil to a pan and warm through (I love to use a cast-iron skillet here).
    4. Once the butter is melted, add some toutons and cook on both sides.

    Note: You’ll want to cook the toutons in batches, replacing the butter and canola oil, as necessary, between batches.

    Collage of steps to make toutons.

    When Are They Done?

    Toutons are done when they’re golden brown on the outside and, of course, cooked on the inside.

    If you tap them, they’ll have a hollow sound, much like the sound you would get from a baked loaf of bread.

    Toutons can burn quickly! They cook rather fast and shouldn’t be left unattended. It’s better to have your heat set on low so they get golden brown on the outside and fluffy inside.

    Tip: If you think your toutons still need to be cooked after frying, but don’t want to risk the chance of burning them on the outside, pop them on a sheet pan in a 200 degree Fahrenheit oven for 8 to 10 minutes or so to finish cooking.

    Pan-fried toutons in a cast-iron skillet.

    Can I Double the Recipe?

    Absolutely!

    You can even prepare less toutons if you like.

    Basically, use whatever bread dough you have on hand.

    Just keep the toutons warm in a preheated oven while you are preparing your batches.

    Two hands holding a cut touton to show the interior.

    What To Serve With Toutons

    Traditionally toutons are served with molasses.

    A dab of butter is also a lovely addition.

    If you don’t have molasses (or prefer not to use), jam/jelly, honey or maple syrup are all yummy on toutons too.

    Side note: Isn’t that floral plate gorgeous? It was given to me by my grandmother from her collection (she loves dishes as much as I do).

    Plate of toutons with butter & molasses over top, next to molasses and berries.

    Tips for Recipe Success

    • Don’t have leftover bread dough? No worries! You can often purchase uncooked bread dough from your local grocery store (or bakery). This can usually be found in the freezer or refrigerated section. The dough used for this recipe was purchased from a grocery store. And if you don’t see it around the store, ask. If you do decide to make your own, this is a great recipe for basic white bread (from Robin Hood).
    • If the dough you purchase is frozen, allow to thaw before using and use right away once thawed.
    • In a pinch, I’ve seen toutons made with pizza dough. You won’t yield the exact same results, but it’s an easy substitute.
    • As mentioned, it’s better to have your heat set on a lower setting when cooking toutons. Low and slow is the way to go. That way, they get all nice-n-golden brown on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Ain’t nobody got time for undercooked dough!
    Stack of toutons with a dab of butter over top and drizzled with molasses.

    More Traditional Newfoundland Recipes

    • Traditional Newfoundland Cod au Gratin
    • Newfoundland Salt Cod Fish Cakes
    • Cod Tongues
    • Newfoundland Boiled Beans

    Hope you love this recipe for toutons as much as we do! It’s a Newfoundland favourite!

    If you make this Newfoundland touton recipe, be sure to leave a comment below!

    Plate of toutons with butter and molasses over top.

    Toutons (Newfoundland Recipe for Fried Dough)

    Dawn | Girl Heart Food
    Toutons, or fried bread dough, is a traditional Newfoundland recipe that is super simple to prepare, but incredibly delicious. Serve with a generous drizzle of molasses and you're set for a real treat!
    5 from 14 votes
    Print Recipe Save RecipeSaved!
    Prep Time 15 mins
    Cook Time 20 mins
    Total Time 35 mins
    Course Breakfast
    Cuisine Newfoundland
    Servings 8 toutons
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Ingredients
     

    • ¾ pound uncooked white bread dough, rolled into 8 balls (about 1.5 ounces each or 45 grams each)
    • 2 tablespoons canola oil, approximately
    • 2 tablespoons butter, approximately

    Serving Suggestions (optional)

    • Molasses
    • Jam or jelly
    • Butter
    • Maple syrup
    • Honey

    Instructions

    • Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit (this is to keep your toutons warm while you are preparing your batches and is optional).
    • Roll dough into balls, about 1.5 ounces each.
    • Flatten each ball into a disc, about ½-inch thick and about 3-inches or so in diameter.
    • Place dough balls onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, cover loosely with a clean tea towel and let rise for 5 to 10 minutes (the toutons will further puff up as they cook).
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a cast-iron skillet (I use a 12-inch skillet) over low heat.
      Note: It's best to cook the toutons in batches, with 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of canola oil per batch.
    • Add toutons to the skillet (I cook 4 at a time). Cook toutons for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until they're golden brown on the outside and cooked through.
      Note: Watch carefully because toutons can burn quickly.
    • Place cooked toutons onto a baking sheet in the preheated oven to keep warm while you are preparing remaining toutons. Add more butter and oil, when necessary, in order to cook remaining toutons.
    • Serve toutons with a dab of butter, molasses, jam or any of the other optional serving suggestions (if desired). Enjoy!

    Notes

    • Don’t have leftover bread dough? No worries! You can often purchase uncooked bread dough from your local grocery store (or bakery). This can usually be found in the freezer or refrigerated section. The dough used for this recipe was purchased from a grocery store. And if you don’t see it around the store, ask. 
    • If the dough you purchase is frozen, allow to thaw before using and use right away once thawed.
    • In a pinch, I’ve seen toutons made with pizza dough. You won’t yield the exact same results, but it’s an easy substitute.
    • As mentioned, it’s better to have your heat set on low when cooking toutons. Low and slow is the way to go. That way, they get all nice-n-golden brown on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Ain’t nobody got time for undercooked dough!

    A note on times provided: appliances vary, any prep and/or cook times provided are estimates only.

    Keyword fried dough recipe, traditional newfoundland recipe

    Tried this recipe?

    If you do make this recipe, thank you!! It would mean so much if you could leave a comment below. Love to know how you enjoyed it, and it helps other readers too!

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Pat

      April 06, 2021 at 5:15 pm

      These sound absolutely yummy! – had never heard of them before! Can’t wait to make & try these. And that china plate is “Old Country Roses” – I have the entire set plus many accessories! It’s a classic Royal Albert china pattern.

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        April 15, 2021 at 3:31 pm

        Thank you, Pat! They sure are! You are correct, that is the name of the set. Aren’t they beautiful?? Hope you enjoy the toutons, they’re a favourite around here.

        Reply
    2. Sarah

      December 04, 2020 at 8:20 pm

      My husband is from NFLD and has requested these. Going down memory lane for him and a new dish for my daughter and I. Looking forward to it and thanks for the tips.

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        December 04, 2020 at 8:50 pm

        Hi Sarah – that’s great! Hope you all love them! Thanks so much for stopping by!

        Reply
      • Mrs. P

        February 16, 2021 at 6:35 pm

        My Nanny salted these after cooking and dipped them in maple syrup. Sweet and salty heaven.

        Reply
        • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

          February 22, 2021 at 2:00 pm

          I never heard of that before, but sounds yummy!

          Reply
    3. Valentina

      March 14, 2020 at 8:08 pm

      5 stars
      These are absolutely mouth-watering. They look/sound like part pancake, part crumpet. Beautiful photos, too! 🙂 ~Valentina

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        March 16, 2020 at 11:24 am

        Thanks a bunch, Valentina!

        Reply
    4. Jennifer @ Seasons and Suppers

      March 13, 2020 at 1:06 pm

      5 stars
      I’ve never had a Touton, but you are definitely speaking my language with “fried dough” 🙂 I will definitely try these when I have some leftover dough next!

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        March 16, 2020 at 11:23 am

        Woo hoo! Thanks Jennifer! Enjoy 🙂

        Reply
    5. Katherine | Love In My Oven

      March 12, 2020 at 11:16 pm

      5 stars
      I always love your Newfoundland treats, Dawn! These sound so, so tasty. Anything dough and I’m a happy girl. And serving it with molasses is pure genius! They look terrific! Happy almost weekend, my friend! XO

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        March 16, 2020 at 11:23 am

        Thank you Katherine!! Hope you had a wonderful weekend too! XOXO

        Reply
    6. Laura

      March 12, 2020 at 2:22 pm

      5 stars
      I love learning about new (to me) foods! I’m certain my family would adore these. We’re spending so much time indoors these days, so this is defiinitely on my “must-make” list, Dawn! Thanks for sharing!

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        March 16, 2020 at 11:23 am

        So happy to hear that, Laura! Enjoy!

        Reply
    7. Mary Ann | The Beach House Kitchen

      March 12, 2020 at 12:20 pm

      5 stars
      I’ve never heard of toutons, but boy have I been missing out. These look totally delicious Dawn. Perfect for breakfast with jam or maybe for a sandwich for lunch or side for dinner. I’ve got to try! Pinned!

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        March 16, 2020 at 11:23 am

        Thank you Mary Ann! Hope you enjoy 🙂

        Reply
    8. [email protected]

      March 12, 2020 at 9:56 am

      5 stars
      Oh man!! You are speaking my language with this one! I’ve never heard of these – but I want them!! Loving their golden color! Pinned!

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        March 16, 2020 at 11:22 am

        Right?? Thanks Annie!

        Reply
    9. Kathy @ Beyond the Chicken Coop

      March 12, 2020 at 9:23 am

      5 stars
      I’ve never heard of toutons, but I’m certain I’d love them! Bread, fried, butter!!! What’s not to love? I will need to give these a try soon.

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        March 16, 2020 at 11:22 am

        Agreed! Thanks Kathy! Enjoy 🙂

        Reply
    10. David @ Spiced

      March 12, 2020 at 9:08 am

      5 stars
      Toutons are new to me, but they sound delicious! You’re right that every culture has some variation on this general idea…and I think I need to try them all! You know, for science. Also, that’s so cool that your grandfather owned a bakery. Respect! Oh, and congrats to Team Newfoundland and Labrador. 🙂 <–I was in Ontario to see them win the Brier this year. Perhaps they celebrated with a batch of toutons? Haha!

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        March 16, 2020 at 11:22 am

        Super delish for sure! Lol…thanks David 🙂

        Reply
    11. Alexandra @ It's Not Complicated Recipes

      March 12, 2020 at 3:23 am

      5 stars
      This is not a recipe I had heard of before, but how delicious! They sound incredible, Dawn. What an interesting recipe!

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        March 16, 2020 at 11:21 am

        Thank you Alexandra! Toutons are such a classic around here 🙂

        Reply
    12. Marissa

      March 11, 2020 at 8:25 pm

      5 stars
      Loving these Newfoundland recipes you’re sharing, Dawn! These look amazing! My mom made something similar when I was little and now you have me craving these toutons!

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        March 16, 2020 at 11:21 am

        Thank you so much, Marissa! They’re so good!

        Reply
    13. Kelsie | the itsy-bitsy kitchen

      March 11, 2020 at 7:57 pm

      5 stars
      I’ve never heard of toutons so thank you for the introduction. You know we’re on the same page about carbs, girl! Especially when they’re fried :). These sound amazing!

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        March 16, 2020 at 11:21 am

        Right?? Thanks Kelsie!

        Reply
    14. Matt - Total Feasts

      March 11, 2020 at 6:52 pm

      5 stars
      TOUTONS! I used to love making these growing up. So carby, so bad for you, so delicious. Molasses on top for sure. These take me back, thanks Dawn!

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        March 16, 2020 at 11:20 am

        Thank you Matt! Gott have molasses 😉

        Reply
    15. Sarah

      March 11, 2020 at 4:30 pm

      5 stars
      I love all these Newfoundland recipes you’ve been doing! And omg fried bread? YES Please!

      Reply
      • Dawn - Girl Heart Food

        March 16, 2020 at 11:20 am

        Thank you so much, Sarah!! Happy to hear that!

        Reply
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