Chin-Chin Recipe (Crispy Nigerian Snack): A Delightful Complete Guide😋

9jakitchenblog
August 30, 2025

Introducing Chin-Chin Recipe🍪✨

Chin-chin recipe is a delicious, crispy, and crunchy Nigerian snack made with flour, sugar, butter, and milk. Chin-chin is a beloved West African snack, particularly popular in Nigeria, renowned for its crunchy texture and sweet, buttery flavour. This bite-sized fried dough treat is a staple at festive gatherings, parties, and as an everyday snack. Whether you are new to African cuisine or looking to perfect your chin-chin recipe, this guide covers everything you need to know.

If you’re craving a sweet, crunchy, and addictive snack, then the Chin-Chin recipe is exactly what you need! Popular in Nigeria and across West Africa, chin-chin is a deep-fried (or baked) pastry made from flour, sugar, milk, and butter. It’s perfect for parties, festive seasons, or simply as a snack with a chilled drink. Whether you like it soft, crunchy, or somewhere in between, chin-chin never disappoints.

In this post, we’ll dive deep into how to prepare chin-chin, the equipment you’ll need, its nutritional value, top tips for success, and frequently asked questions.

What is Chin-chin?🤔

Chin-chin is a deep-fried dough snack made from a mixture of flour, sugar, milk, butter, and eggs. It is commonly cut into small squares or strips and fried until golden brown. The snack is versatile; you can make it soft and chewy or extra crunchy, depending on your preference.

Ingredients for Chin-Chin🥣

To make the best chin-chin, gather the following ingredients:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup evaporated milk or regular milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra flavour)
A pinch of salt
Vegetable oil for frying

Equipment Needed🍴

Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Rolling pin
Knife or pastry cutter (for cutting into shapes)
Frying pan / deep fryer
Slotted spoon (for removing fried chin-chin)
Paper towel-lined plate (for draining excess oil)

Step-by-Step Chin-chin Recipe Instructions👩🏾‍🍳

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and nutmeg.

Step 2: Add Butter

Rub in the butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Add Milk and Flavour

Pour in milk gradually and mix until you get a soft but not sticky dough. Add vanilla if desired.

Step 4: Rest the Dough

Cover and let the dough rest for 15–20 minutes.

Step 5: Cut into Shapes

Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into small cubes or strips.

Step 6: Fry the Chin-Chin

Heat oil in a deep pan and fry in batches over medium heat until golden brown. Stir continuously to avoid sticking.

Step 7: Drain and Cool

Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Allow to cool completely before storing.

Serving Suggestions

Chin-chin can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or served alongside tea, coffee, or soft drinks. It is also a popular party favourite during weddings, holidays, and birthdays.

Nigeria Chin Chin

Tips for the Perfect Chin-Chin💡

For crispy chin-chin, roll the dough thin before frying.
For softer chin-chin, add a bit more butter and milk.
Fry over medium heat to avoid burning while ensuring it cooks through.
Store in an airtight container once cooled – it can last 3–4 weeks.
You can also bake chin-chin at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes as a healthier alternative.

Healthier Baked Chin-chin Option

If you prefer a healthier version, chin-chin can also be baked instead of fried. Arrange the cut dough on a baking tray, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden, turning halfway through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving – 100g)⚖️

Calories: 420 kcal
Carbohydrates: 50 g
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 12 g

📌 Source: MyNetDiary↗

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)❓

Can I bake chin-chin instead of frying? Yes — bake at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 20–25 minutes for a lighter version.
Why is my chin-chin too hard? Over-kneading or too little butter/milk can result in a rock-hard texture. Adjust liquid ratios next time.
How long can chin-chin last? When stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to 4 weeks at room temperature.
Can I make chin-chin ahead of time? Yes, chin-chin can be made in advance and stored for weeks.
Can I add flavours? Absolutely! Try cinnamon, lemon zest, or coconut flakes for variety.
What oil is best for frying chin-chin? Use a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or sunflower for the best results.
Is Chin-Chin gluten-free? Traditional recipes use wheat flour, but you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends.
How do I keep chin-chin crispy? Store in an airtight container after cooling completely. Moisture can make Chin-Chin lose its crunch.

Conclusion
Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a tasty snack, or exploring African cuisine, this chin-chin recipe provides a foolproof way to enjoy a classic Nigerian snack. Try different variations and enjoy the delightful crunch of homemade chin-chin.