Crispy Potato Smileys
Description
These homemade Crispy Potato Smileys are a fun and delicious twist on classic potato snacks. Made with seasoned mashed potatoes, they're shaped into adorable smiley faces and fried until perfectly golden and crunchy. The outside becomes irresistibly crisp while the inside stays soft, fluffy, and packed with savory potato flavor. Whether you're making them for kids, serving them as a party snack, or simply satisfying a craving, these smiley potatoes are guaranteed to bring a little extra happiness to the table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash, peel, and cut the potatoes into large chunks. Add them to a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and easily mashed.
- Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the warm pot for a minute to remove excess moisture. Mash until completely smooth, ensuring there are no lumps remaining.
- Add the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until a smooth, pliable dough forms. The mixture should hold together easily and not feel sticky.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface or place it between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll it out to approximately ¼-inch thickness.
- Using a round cookie cutter, cut out circles from the dough. Use a straw to create two eye holes and a small spoon or rounded measuring spoon to gently carve a smile into each circle. Gather any scraps, reroll the dough, and continue cutting until all the mixture has been used.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the smileys in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Transfer the cooked smileys to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve warm with ketchup, ranch, garlic aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Note
• Mash the potatoes thoroughly to prevent cracks and rough edges.
• If the dough feels sticky, add a little more cornstarch until it becomes easy to handle.
• Chilling the cut smileys for 15–20 minutes before frying can help them hold their shape even better.
• Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even browning.
• These can be frozen before frying and cooked directly from frozen.
• Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.
