Irresistibly Crunchy Smiley Potato Fries Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For extra crispiness, you can double-fry the smiley fries: fry them once at a lower temperature (around 325°F) until just cooked, then let them cool and fry again at a higher temperature (375°F) until deep golden and crunchy.

This technique removes excess moisture and creates a longer-lasting crisp. Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to avoid greasy results.

To keep the fries warm while frying in batches, place them on a wire rack in a 200°F oven. This keeps them crisp without steaming. If you have leftover dough, you can refrigerate it for up to a day and fry later. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling and cutting.

Variations

• Cheesy Smileys: Add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the dough before shaping. The cheese will melt and become gooey inside, adding a rich, savory flavor. Adjust the salt accordingly.
• Herbed Smileys: Mix in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill into the dough. This adds a fresh, aromatic note that pairs well with the crispy exterior.
• Spicy Smileys: Increase the Turkish red pepper flakes to 2 teaspoons or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. This gives the fries a spicy kick that’s great with cooling dips.
• Sweet Potato Smileys: Replace the mashed boiled potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes. The sweetness will balance the spices, and the fries will have a vibrant orange color. Adjust the starch amount if needed.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store leftover smiley fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

Freezer

Freeze uncooked smiley fries on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Fry from frozen, adding a minute to the cooking time.

Reheat

Reheat fried smiley fries in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy.

Store leftover smiley fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 400°F oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until crisp.

Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soggy. For longer storage, freeze the fried fries on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

The dough can be prepared a day in advance and kept in the refrigerator. Roll and cut the smiley faces, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

Serving ideas

Serve the smiley fries hot and crispy as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They pair wonderfully with ketchup, but also with other dips like garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or a spicy mayo.

The cheerful faces make them a hit at children’s parties and casual gatherings. For a fun presentation, arrange them on a platter with a bowl of dipping sauce in the center.

For a more indulgent treat, sprinkle the fries with a little extra salt and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. They can also be served alongside burgers, sandwiches, or as part of a brunch spread.

The fries are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be kept warm in a low oven for up to 20 minutes without losing their crunch.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Irresistibly Crunchy Smiley Potato Fries

Prep 20 minCook 15 minTotal 35 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 3 slices white sandwich bread, diced into small cubes
• 500 g warm mashed boiled potatoes
• 100 g potato starch (about 4 tbsp)
• 1 tsp salt
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Turkish red pepper flakes (pul biber)
• Vegetable oil, for frying, to taste
• Ketchup, for serving

Instructions

1. Stack the bread slices and cut them into small cubes with a chef's knife on a clean cutting board. Aim for even, bite-size pieces. Set aside in a bowl.
2. In a large bowl, combine the warm mashed potatoes, bread cubes, potato starch, salt, black pepper, and Turkish red pepper flakes. Knead everything together until a smooth, cohesive dough forms.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/2 inch (1 cm) thick. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles. Use a straw to poke two eyes, and the edge of a spoon to press a smile.
4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully slide the smiley faces into the hot oil using a spatula. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until puffed and golden brown on all sides.
5. Remove the fried smiley fries with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Let them cool for a minute or two, then serve hot with ketchup for dipping.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

280

Protein

5 g

Carbohydrates

45 g

Fat

9 g

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.