To make drunken bread fritters, start by cutting your leftover bread into cubes and placing them in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together your eggs, milk, sugar, and liquor of choice (bourbon or rum work well). Pour this mixture over your bread cubes and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid.
Once your bread has soaked up the liquid, it’s time to fry it up into fritters. Heat a few inches of oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 375°F. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the bread mixture into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until golden brown, then remove from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serve hot, dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. These fritters are best enjoyed immediately while still hot and crispy.
One of the great things about drunken bread fritters is their versatility. You can change up the liquor you use depending on your preference, or even leave it out altogether for a non-alcoholic version. You can also add other flavorings to the batter, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, for a little extra kick.
While drunken bread fritters are certainly not a healthy choice, they are a delicious and satisfying treat that is perfect for special occasions or a special indulgence every once in a while. Plus, since they are made from leftover bread, they are a great way to reduce food waste and make use of ingredients you may have otherwise thrown away.
In addition to being delicious, drunken bread fritters also have an interesting historical significance. Similar versions of this dessert have been enjoyed across cultures for centuries, including the Italian “zippuli” and the Spanish “buñuelos”. These versions often included ingredients like cheese or anchovies, but the version we know today likely originated in France.
No matter their origins, drunken bread fritters are a beloved dessert around the world. And with their simple ingredients and easy preparation, they are a great choice for home cooks looking to add a little indulgence to their dessert repertoire. So next time you have some leftover bread and a craving for something sweet, try out a batch of drunken bread fritters and see why this classic dessert has stood the test of time.