There's no question that America is a bit obsessed with fried dough -- after all, doughnuts and funnel cakes are staples of our fair-and-theme-park-going lives.
But we're not the only country whose favorite desserts are variations of fried dough -- in fact, most countries have some type of this treat. We're thinking the below list is enough of an excuse for some major food-motivated travel:
Churro
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This dessert is indigenous to Spain, where they usually dip the dough in melted chocolate, but has also caught on in Mexico, the U.S., and some Latin American countries. In contrast from most other fried dough varieties, the churro is made by piping dough directly into hot oil.
Beignet
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This fried dough reigns from France, but is also widely popular in New Orleans. The yeast dough and a perfect dough thickness are responsible for the signature puff of this treat.
Loukoumades
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This Greek delicacy consists of fried dough topped with honey and cinnamon.
Zeppole
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This Italian treat is traditionally served during La Festa di San Giuseppe (Saint Joseph's Day) and, in New York, the Feast of San Gennaro.
Struffoli
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These honey-glazed fried dough balls are native to Naples, Italy and are traditionally served around Christmastime.
Sopapillas
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This simple dessert is most popular in New Mexico, but is widely popular in other border states and some Latin American countries. These treats are often cut into shapes, and are best describes as 'little pillows.'
Funnel Cake
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This ubiquitous fair food is an American classic, but its origins are largely attributed to the Pennsylvania Dutch.
Paczki
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This 'Polish doughnut' is traditionally eaten on Fat Thursday in Poland and Fat Tuesday in the U.S, and is usually filled with a variety of sweet jam.
Jalebi
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This dessert is popular in India, Pakistan, and other nearby countries. It is made with saffron, best served warm, and is often served as a treat for special occasions.
Krofne
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These Croatian doughnuts are made with rum.
Bugnes
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This treat hails from Lyon, France and is traditional for Mardis Gras.
Schneeballen
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Shneeballen (or 'snowballs') is a German dessert made by cutting dough into strips, forming them into a ball, frying it, and then topping it with powdered sugar, chocolate, or other ingredients.
Malasada
Flickr: _e.t
This yeast, hole-less doughnut is originally Portuguese, but is also popular in Hawaii.
Tulumba
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This Turkish dessert is fried dough soaked in syrup.
Sufganiyah
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This jelly-filled Israeli doughnut is eaten during Hanukkah.
Doughnut
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Though the origins of this favorite treat go back to ancient European times, the doughnut as we know it today is largely an American creation.
Everyone's Doing It: Homemade Donuts
