For many, the sweet aroma of savory delights is what truly brings a carnival to life. It’s an opportunity to indulge in tasty treats and forget about dietary restrictions for a day.
The allure of deep-fried goodies, with their crispy exteriors and rich flavors, is undeniable. But why not bring that magic home? With these favorite recipes, you can create delicious and nutritious carnival-inspired dishes that will transport your senses back to the vibrant atmosphere of the fair.
Sugar-Free Kettle Corn
A matchless blend of sweet and salty, this kettle corn not only tantalizes the taste buds but also boasts impressive health credentials. Its satisfying crunch, delectable flavor, budget-friendliness, and simplicity make it a standout snack. To create this delightful treat, simply cook your corn kernels in coconut oil, infusing them with a subtle nutty flavor. A touch of natural sweetener provides just the right amount of sweetness, while salt expertly balances out the flavors, making for a harmonious snacking experience.
Mexican Street Corn
Transform the humble ear of sweet corn into a flavorful fiesta by combining it with salty cotija cheese, spicy Tajin, and fresh cilantro. The resulting snack or appetizer is a masterclass in contrasting textures and tastes, with each bite delivering a delightful symphony of sweet, spicy, crunchy, and creamy notes.The magic lies in the unique fusion of flavors, which creates an unforgettable culinary experience. To bring this Mexican corn blend to life, start by brushing cooked cobs with a rich and creamy mayo, then sprinkle Tajin’s signature blend of chili peppers and spices over the top. Add a generous helping of crumbly cotija cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added depth and freshness.But that’s not all – take it to the next level by drizzling avocado crema over the corn, adding a silky smoothness to balance out the bold flavors. And don’t forget to serve with a wedge of lime on the side, allowing each person to add their own zesty kick as they please.This street-style corn recipe is the perfect accompaniment to any authentic Mexican bread recipe – try pairing it with one of our favorite recipes for a match made in heaven!
Elephant Ears
A beloved carnival treat, often mistaken as being difficult to prepare, is actually a straightforward process. The sweet and crispy delight known as elephant ears is simply a piece of fried dough coated in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. To begin, combine milk, butter, salt, and sugar, then add yeast once it has dissolved. Next, gradually incorporate flour into the mixture until a foamy consistency is achieved, resulting in a pliable dough. Shape this dough into thin sheets, which will eventually take on the characteristic ‘ear’ shape after frying to a golden crisp. While still warm, sprinkle a generous amount of cinnamon sugar over each ear, allowing the flavors to meld together and creating an irresistible snack.
Krapfen
Tempting Krapfen treats are essentially golden, crispy orbs filled with sweet, fruity jam and lightly coated in powdered sugar. The process of making these indulgent delights involves a few steps and some patience as the dough rises. But trust us, the end result is well worth the effort.
The beauty of Krapfen lies in its simplicity – the ingredients are everyday staples found in most pantries and fridges. You’ll need flour, milk, yeast, eggs, sugar, salt, and butter to get started.
Once you’ve shaped and fried your dough, it’s time to fill those crispy balls with your favorite jelly filling. A classic choice is strawberry flavor, but feel free to experiment with other sweet and tangy options!
Fried Cheese Curds
Imagine sinking your teeth into a crispy, golden delight that’s packed with creamy, melty goodness inside – it’s a culinary dream come true! Gooey cheese curds are coated in a light and airy beer-infused batter, which is then fried to perfection. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible.
To take your beer-battered cheese curds to the next level, add some dried parsley, garlic powder, and oregano to the batter for an extra boost of flavor. Just be sure not to overdo it – the beer’s got plenty of flavor on its own!
Once you’ve got your cheese curds coated in the batter, fry them up until they’re golden brown and crispy. When you take that first bite, the gooey cheese inside will melt in your mouth, and you’ll be hooked.
Serve your beer-battered cheese curds with your favorite dipping sauce – marinara, blue cheese dressing, or even a tangy ranch dip are all great options.
Corn Dogs
Transform classic carnival treats by coating hot dogs in a luscious honey-infused batter. The result is a sweet and satisfying snack that’s both crunchy and delectable. To achieve this delightful combination, start by combining flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking powder with buttermilk, egg, and the essence of sweet honey. Make sure to prepare your hot dogs by threading them onto skewers before dipping them into the batter. Once coated, deep fry the hot dogs until they reach a golden, crispy perfection, then serve them steaming hot and enjoy!
Fried Pickles
Imagine sinking your teeth into crunchy, golden bites that burst with juicy pickle flavor. That’s what you get when you dip dill pickle slices in a seasoned batter and then fry them to a perfect crisp. The combination of salty, savory flavors and satisfying crunch is absolute heaven.
To create this mouthwatering snack, start by mixing together flour, baking powder, cornmeal, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for an added kick. Beer adds a rich depth of flavor while keeping the batter light and airy.
Next, coat your battered pickles in breadcrumbs before frying to create an extra-crunchy exterior. And when you’re ready to indulge, serve them up with a side of creamy ranch dressing for the ultimate dipping experience.
Fried Oreos
Elevate the classic Oreo experience by transforming it into a crispy, sweet, and savory masterpiece. The key lies in coating the cookies in a golden batter and frying them to perfection. A match made in heaven, the crunchy Oreos pair exquisitely with the rich Bisquick batter.To create this indulgent treat, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk to form your Bisquick batter. Next, coat your Oreos in the mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated before frying until golden brown.The pièce de résistance is a sprinkle of sweet powdered sugar upon serving. The combination of textures and flavors will leave you craving more. So go ahead, indulge in this decadent delight and experience the Oreo like never before.
Almond Butter Energy Balls
Indulge in the wholesome goodness of these no-bake almond butter energy balls, boasting a trifecta of sweet, nutty, and healthy qualities. The absence of baking requirements makes them an effortless treat option.
The distinct nutty flavor profile is courtesy of almond butter, which pairs seamlessly with coconut flour’s subtle nuances. A touch of maple syrup adds natural sweetness, while cocoa powder lends a rich, velvety chocolate essence.
Ground flaxseed serves as the binding agent, ensuring your energy balls retain their shape and don’t disintegrate. After rolling them into perfect spheres, refrigerate for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld together harmoniously before enjoying.
Caramel Corn
Elevate the humble act of making homemade popcorn by combining it with the rich flavor of pecans and drizzling it with a luscious, salty-sweet caramel. The best part? Creating this decadent treat is surprisingly easy.
To make your caramel, simply combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a pan and whisk until smooth. Then, add in heavy cream, butter, and salt to balance out the sweetness. For an added layer of depth, don’t forget to stir in some vanilla extract.
Once you’ve got your caramel ready, toss it with your popcorn and pecans until everything is evenly coated. Then, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and pop it into the oven until golden brown and crunchy.
The final step? Breaking the clusters apart into bite-sized morsels that are perfect for munching on at your next carnival-themed party. Trust us, this irresistible snack will be the star of the show!
County Fair Funnel Cakes
Indulge in the simplicity of this scrumptious funnel cake recipe, which requires minimal ingredients commonly found in most pantries. This sweet treat is made by pouring a mixture of eggs, milk, water, and vanilla extract through a funnel, resulting in crispy fried dough coated with a generous sprinkling of powdered sugar. The perfect snack to savor while still warm!
Churros
Indulge in the delightful world of fried carnival treats, where crispy sticks of dough, affectionately known as churros, reign supreme. These indulgent morsels boast a surprisingly airy interior, providing a perfect contrast to their crunchy exterior. With a few simple ingredients at your fingertips, you can whip up a batch of churros in no time. Simply melt together butter, water, cinnamon, and salt, then stir in flour and eggs before frying until golden brown perfection is achieved. But the fun doesn’t stop there – take it to the next level by dusting your churros with a generous helping of cinnamon sugar, providing the perfect accompaniment to this sweet treat. And for the ultimate experience, be sure to have pots of melted chocolate and sweet caramel on hand for dipping, elevating this classic carnival snack to new heights.
Brussel Sprout Chips
Indulge in the satisfying crunch of oven-roasted Brussels sprouts, elevated by a medley of flavors and textures. Begin by seasoning the sprouts with a blend of oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then, generously sprinkle crumbled parmesan cheese to add depth and richness. Olive oil plays a crucial role in facilitating the crisping process, so be sure to mix it well with the sprouts. Next, arrange the mixture in a single layer on a baking pan to optimize crispiness. The reward is worth the effort – golden brown edges and crispy textures that will have you reaching for your favorite dipping sauce.
Snow Cone Syrup
With this easy-to-make sweet syrup recipe, you’ll always have a refreshing treat on hand for those hot summer days when nothing beats a cool snow cone. The best part? This syrup stores well in the fridge, making it convenient to grab and go. And at just a few minutes of prep time, you can make a batch to suit your taste buds’ cravings.
To get started, combine sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil until the sugar dissolves. Next, add in a packet of your favorite flavor drink mix – think cherry, grape, berry blue, or peach mango for a sweet and fruity twist.
These classic fair treats are sure to hit the spot on a hot summer day, providing the perfect pick-me-up for kids and adults alike.
Tacos in a Bag
When it comes to carnival celebrations, tacos in a bag are an ideal solution for a stress-free snacking experience. The beauty of this concept lies in its mess-free nature, making it perfect for enjoying with family and friends. To create these tasty treats, start by using a packet of taco mix to add flavor to your ground beef. A creative alternative to traditional taco shells can be found in a bag of Doritos. Simply crush the chips before opening the bag and adding your taco meat. The result is a flavorful filling that’s ready to be topped with an assortment of delicious ingredients, including crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, green onions, and shredded cheese. Mix everything together before adding a dash of salsa, sour cream, and hot sauce to give it an extra boost of flavor.
Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Indulge in a sweet and crunchy carnival treat by transforming raw pecans into a mouthwatering delight. The secret lies in glazing them with a scrumptious cinnamon-sugar mixture, which is further enhanced by the addition of sea salt. This trifecta of flavors creates an irresistible combination that will leave you craving more. To achieve this perfect balance of sweet and savory, it’s essential to incorporate egg whites into the mix. Not only do they help bind the glaze to the pecans, but they also contribute to the satisfying crunch and texture that makes every bite a joy.
Toasted Coconut Kettle Corn
Indulge in a delectable twist on classic kettle corn by introducing toasted coconut into the mix. To create this scrumptious variation, combine coconut oil and butter to achieve the perfect pop for your corn kernels. Next, add sugar, salt, and toasted coconut flakes to the coconut-butter blend. Once you’ve prepared the liquid mixture, coat your kernels evenly by shaking the pan before they start popping.
Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick
Elevate the flavors of your chicken kebabs by slathering them in a rich teriyaki marinade before grilling. The key to creating a harmonious blend is striking a balance between umami, sweet, and salty notes. To achieve this, combine tamari, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, and minced garlic for a depth of flavor that’s both savory and aromatic. A drizzle of sesame oil and sprinkle of sesame seeds add a nutty dimension, while brown sugar contributes a luscious sweetness. This marinade not only enhances the chicken but also makes a tasty dipping sauce – a perfect accompaniment to your grilled skewers.
Homemade Gyros
Gyros are a staple at any carnival or street food festival, and it’s easy to see why – the combination of juicy meat, crunchy veggies, and tangy sauce is a match made in heaven. The key to making truly delicious gyros is using high-quality ingredients, like ground veal and lamb, which pack a flavor punch that’s hard to beat. Of course, if you can’t find those specific types of meat, ground beef is a perfectly acceptable substitute.To really bring out the flavors, make sure to season your meat with plenty of onion and garlic – there’s no need to cook them first, just throw them into the blender and let the blades do their magic. Dried herbs and spices are another game-changer, adding a depth and complexity that elevates the dish from good to great. Oregano, rosemary, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper are all excellent choices.When it comes to toppings, you can’t go wrong with some fresh veggies – red onion, juicy tomatoes, and crisp lettuce add a nice crunch and freshness. And if you want to take things to the next level, add some crumbled feta cheese for a salty contrast, or drizzle with creamy tzatziki sauce for an extra boost of flavor.
Pretzel Dog
Transform the classic corn dog experience by marrying pretzels with hot dogs. The twist? Encasing hot dogs in a beer-infused pretzel dough that’s baked to perfection in the oven. To get started, prepare your dough by mixing together beer, sugar, yeast, flour, salt, and butter. Allow the mixture to rest before utilizing it – the wait will be worth it! Once your dough is ready, wrap ropes of it around hot dogs and bake until golden brown and crispy.
Mini Doughnut Hot Buttered Cheerios
Elevate breakfast cereal game with a scrumptious carnival-inspired treat. Begin by transforming plain Cheerios into a decadent delight by ‘frying’ them in melted butter and coating them with a sweet cinnamon-sugar blend. For an added layer of flavor, infuse the butter with a hint of vanilla extract – this harmonizes particularly well with the warmth of cinnamon sugar. To achieve the perfect coating, stir your Cheerios into the butter until they’re evenly coated, then toss in the spiced sugar to create a mouthwatering combination.
Air Fryer Soft Pretzels
Indulge in a healthier take on soft pretzels by utilizing your air fryer. These delectable treats boast a tender interior paired with a crispy, golden brown crust. The recipe may require some patience as the dough needs time to rise, but the end result is well worth the effort. To begin, combine warm water, yeast, salt, and all-purpose flour to form the pretzel dough. Next, shape your dough into desired pretzel shapes and air fry until crispy and golden brown. Finish by brushing the hot pretzels with butter and sprinkling with sea salt. For more baking inspiration when you’re feeling underwhelmed, explore our collection of fun recipes!
Cheddar Cheese Popcorn
Innovative twists on timeless favorites can lead to truly unforgettable culinary experiences, and this cheddar cheese popcorn is no exception. By incorporating coconut oil into the popping process, you’ll infuse your kernels with a subtle nutty flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the show-stopping star: cheddar cheese powder. To take things to the next level, melted butter serves as a crucial adhesive, ensuring the powdered cheese adheres seamlessly to each piece of popcorn and amplifying its rich, velvety taste in every satisfying bite.
Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Indulge in succulent, tender, and mouthwateringly flavorful chicken drumsticks courtesy of your trusty Instant Pot. To begin, season the poultry with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for a solid foundation of flavor. For an added layer of complexity, introduce paprika and chili powder to ignite a delightful spiciness. Once cooked, give the drumsticks a generous coating of barbecue sauce, allowing the natural sweetness of the condiment to harmonize with the richness of butter and oil as it caramelizes beautifully during cooking.
Italian Lemon Sorbet
Indulge in the zesty, refreshing taste of Italian lemon sorbet, the perfect treat to beat the heat on a carnival afternoon. With only three ingredients needed, this sweet delight is surprisingly simple to make. The key lies in crafting a simple syrup with monk fruit crystals and water, which combines harmoniously with lemon juice and zest for maximum citrus flavor. For an added touch of whimsy, serve your sorbet in hollowed-out lemons and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for a burst of bold color and flavor. Not only is this treat ideal for carnival celebrations, but it’s also a fantastic pool party food idea to keep your guests cool and satisfied on a sweltering summer day.
Funnel Cake Fries
Transform the classic taste of funnel cakes into an easy-to-enjoy snack by cooking French fry-style funnel cake batter strips until they’re golden and crispy. To make this delightful treat, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt to create a regular funnel cake batter. Then, add milk, egg, and a hint of vanilla extract for added sweetness. Fry the batter into strips until they’re perfectly cooked, and finish them off with a dusting of powdered sugar while serving warm.
Baked Shrimp Skewers
Savor the flavor of juicy shrimp skewers, perfectly paired with a tangy and creamy vegan Aji Verde sauce. This mouthwatering snack is a must-have at any carnival or party. To prepare the skewers, simply thread your shrimp onto wooden sticks, season with salt and pepper, and bake in the oven until golden brown. For an added crunch, lightly coat with oil before baking.Meanwhile, create the Aji Verde sauce by blending together cilantro, parsley, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic, tahini, and a hint of jalapeno heat. This flavorful condiment is not only delicious on its own but also serves as the perfect accompaniment to your shrimp skewers. Serve the skewers hot, drizzled with the Aji Verde sauce for an added layer of flavor. Not only do these skewers make for a tasty snack, but they’re also incredibly easy to prepare and transport, making them one of the best potluck foods to feed a crowd.
Chocolate Covered Potato Chips
The harmonious union of crunchy potato chips and rich chocolate creates a mouth-watering experience reminiscent of a carnival treat. The perfect pairing is elevated by using ruffled potato chips, which not only maintain their shape when dipped but also add visual appeal to the snack. To bring out the full flavor profile, it’s essential to use high-quality chocolate as the base for coating. A pinch of sea salt adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness, creating a beautiful balance that will leave you craving more.
Fanta Cake
Imagine sinking your teeth into a delightful, citrus-infused cake that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. This Fanta-based recipe is a game-changer, combining the fizzy fun of orange soda with the richness of oil and eggs to create a moist and fluffy treat. The secret ingredient? Carbon dioxide from the Fanta, which helps to lighten the batter and give your cake a tender crumb. And let’s not forget the icing on the cake – literally! Mix powdered sugar with Fanta to create a tangy glaze, then sprinkle with funfetti for a festive touch that’s perfect for pool parties or backyard gatherings.
Donut Grilled Cheese
Indulge in a sweet and savory fusion by combining donuts with gooey cheese. The result is a carnival-inspired treat that’s sure to delight. To create this indulgent masterpiece, start by building your donut sandwich. A crucial step is to place the inside of the donut on the outside, allowing for easier grilling and ensuring the glaze stays contained within the sandwich. Next, add a layer of melty provolone cheese – feel free to use two slices if you’re looking to take your cheesy game to the next level!
Jambalaya
The quintessential Creole dish, Jambalaya, is a harmonious blend of tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and spicy andouille sausage. Its rich flavors are a testament to the bold traditions of Cajun cooking, with a perfect balance of spiced tomato rice and aromatic seasonings. A foundation of canned tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth, and fluffy white rice provides the base for this delectable dish. To elevate its flavor profile, season your Jambalaya with an expert blend of Cajun spices, cayenne pepper, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes. Moreover, don’t forget to incorporate the ‘holy trinity’ of Cajun cuisine – the trio of onion, bell pepper, and celery – to add a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more.
Fried Uncrustables
Indulge in a delightful twist on the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich by transforming it into crispy, fried treats. To achieve this mouthwatering transformation, use canola oil for deep-frying or opt for a healthier approach with an air fryer. Once cooked, allow the Uncrustables to cool until slightly warm before dusting them with powdered sugar. This simple recipe is a game-changer for satisfying your sweet tooth and making the most of your air fryer’s capabilities.
Funnel Cake Bites
Indulge in the sweet delight of bite-sized funnel cakes, reimagined for maximum enjoyment. By transforming the classic recipe into tiny treats, you’ll experience the perfect balance of crispy exterior and fluffy interior. The powdered sugar dusting adds an irresistible touch of sweetness.To craft these morsels, combine eggs, milk, and a hint of vanilla extract to create a rich batter. Then, mix in flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt for added depth. When you’re ready to fry, use an ice cream scoop to portion out the perfect bite-sized pieces into hot oil. As they sizzle and golden brown, your funnel cakes will be ready to be drizzled with chocolate or served with a side of caramel dipping sauce for an added layer of indulgence.
Italian Donuts
Transform traditional Italian donut-making by incorporating mashed potatoes into the mixture. This unique ingredient yields a surprisingly fluffy interior and a satisfyingly crunchy exterior. To create this delectable treat, combine mashed potato with flour, butter, eggs, sugar, and yeast. The addition of lemon zest brings a bright, citrusy flavor to the donuts. After allowing the dough to rest for several hours, fry the donuts until golden brown, then dust them with sugar while still warm for an irresistible sweet treat.
Baked Mini Churro Bites with Chocolate Sauce
Indulge in these scrumptious mini churro bites, which offer a healthier twist on traditional carnival treats thanks to their oven-baked preparation. The secret to achieving this delightful dessert lies in the combination of water, milk, butter, and vanilla, brought to a boil before being tempered with flour, sugar, and salt. A brief mixing session is followed by the removal from heat and incorporation of an egg, which yields a cakey interior. Once piped onto a baking pan, these bite-sized treats emerge golden after a satisfying bake. As you savor each crispy churro, delight in the experience with a rich chocolate sauce for dipping – a match made in heaven!
Smoked Turkey Legs
Indulge in the rich flavors of a perfectly glazed turkey leg, where a honey butter coating adds a delightful sheen to the tender meat. As the sweet and savory glaze clings to the smoky flesh, you’ll be left craving another bite.To elevate your turkey leg game, start by dry-brining it with a reputable blend like Bada Bing Dry Brine. This clever trick draws moisture from the skin, resulting in a satisfying crunch upon cooking.Next, fire up your smoker and let the turkey leg bask in the gentle heat until it’s nicely smoked to your liking. Once it reaches the perfect level of doneness, remove it from the heat and slather on a generous helping of melted butter and honey. Allow the glaze to set before serving, ensuring each bite is a masterful balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors.
Vegan Pistachio Ice Cream
Indulge in the sweet delight of vegan pistachio ice cream, a perfect treat for any carnival celebration. This creamy, refreshing dessert is packed with nutty flavor, thanks to the vibrant pistachio paste made from ground pistachios and water. When combined with coconut milk, almond milk, and natural sweeteners like maple syrup, it creates a rich, velvety base that’s as indulgent as its dairy-based counterparts. The addition of vanilla extract ensures the ice cream remains smooth and creamy, even when frozen to perfection. To take your treat to the next level, serve it in a cone and top with chopped pistachios and chocolate syrup for a delightful combination. And if you’re as passionate about pistachios as we are, be sure to check out our other easy-to-make pistachio recipes!
Fried Sourdough Funnel Cakes
Within the realm of creative culinary delights lies the enchanting combination of sourdough funnel cakes. These delectable treats boast a tender, fluffy interior, perfectly balanced by a golden, crispy exterior. The subtle tanginess imparted by the sourdough discard adds a delightful layer of complexity to each bite. The foundation of this recipe rests on a harmonious blend of dry ingredients – flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt – skillfully combined with egg, milk, and that signature sourdough discard. A hint of vanilla extract subtly enhances the overall flavor profile. As the funnel cakes emerge from their hot-off-the-press treatment, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of whimsy to each delicate piece. Serve these sweet indulgences alongside fresh strawberries and rich chocolate sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience.
