State Fair Deep-Fried Candy Bars: An Indulgent Delight
My first encounter with a deep-fried candy bar was a revelation. I was a wide-eyed kid at the county fair, the air thick with the smell of popcorn and dizzying carnival rides. But then, a scent unlike any other wafted my way – a sweet, caramelized aroma mingling with the unmistakable fragrance of fried dough. Biting into that warm, gooey, chocolate-covered masterpiece was pure bliss. It was so unexpected and so decadently wrong that I have been obsessed ever since. Now, let’s bring that same fairground magic into your kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-8 minutes
- Total Time: 15-18 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Yield: 2 deep-fried candy bars
- Dietary Type: Not suitable for vegan, vegetarian, or healthy diets
Ingredients
- 2 (1.5-2 ounce) chocolate candy bars (Milky Way, Snickers, Mars Bars, or 3 Musketeers work best)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 pinch baking soda (about 1/8 tsp)
- Approximately 1 cup milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- Canola oil or vegetable oil, for frying
Equipment Needed
- Deep fryer or frying pan
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Wooden skewers
- Slotted spoon or spatula
- Paper towels
Instructions
- Begin by chilling the candy bars in the refrigerator. Do not freeze them, as this will affect the cooking process. The goal is to have them firm but not rock solid.
- In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking soda. This ensures there are no lumps and the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously, until you achieve a rich, creamy consistency similar to pancake batter. You may need slightly more or less than 1 cup of milk, so adjust as needed to get the right texture. The batter should be thick enough to coat the candy bars evenly.
- Fully coat each chilled candy bar in the prepared batter, ensuring that every surface is covered. Let the excess drip off to prevent too much batter from going into the oil.
- DEEP FRYER METHOD: Heat your deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Using a strong wooden skewer, carefully pierce the bottom of a battered candy bar. Slowly lower it into the hot oil, using the skewer for support. Fry for approximately 3-5 minutes, or until the batter is golden brown and crispy. Remove the deep-fried candy bar from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- PAN FRY METHOD: Pour about 1-2 inches of canola oil or vegetable oil into a frying pan and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the battered candy bar into the hot oil. Fry on all sides, turning with a spatula or slotted spoon, for approximately 5-8 minutes, or until the batter is golden brown and crispy. Remove the deep-fried candy bar from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Let cool slightly before eating. Be careful, the inside will be very hot!
- For added decadence, chop the deep-fried candy bars into smaller pieces and serve with a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Choosing the Right Candy Bar: While Milky Ways are a classic choice, Snickers, Mars Bars, and 3 Musketeers also work exceptionally well due to their gooey centers. Avoid candy bars with hard chocolate centers, as they may not melt properly during frying.
- Batter Consistency is Key: The batter should be thick enough to cling to the candy bar but not so thick that it becomes heavy and doughy. If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a bit more flour.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving a golden-brown, crispy exterior without burning the candy bar. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
- Skewers Are Your Friend: Using wooden skewers not only makes it easier to handle the candy bars during frying, but also helps prevent them from falling apart in the hot oil. Be sure to use sturdy skewers and insert them carefully to avoid cracking the candy bars.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Fry the candy bars one or two at a time to prevent the oil temperature from dropping too much. Overcrowding the fryer can result in soggy, undercooked candy bars.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Deep-fried candy bars are best served immediately while they are still warm and crispy. The contrast between the warm, gooey interior and the crispy exterior is what makes them so irresistible.
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, or in an air fryer for a crispier result. However, keep in mind that they will not be as good as freshly fried. They are not suitable for freezing.
Nutritional Information
Please note that the nutritional information below is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific candy bars used and the amount of oil absorbed during frying.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 1123.75 kcal | N/A |
| Total Fat | 53 g | 81.5% |
| Saturated Fat | 25.65 g | 128% |
| Cholesterol | 47.65 mg | 15.5% |
| Sodium | 182.3 mg | 7.5% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 142.3 g | 47% |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.75 g | 27% |
| Sugars | 87.7 g | 350.5% |
| Protein | 18.3 g | 36.5% |
Variations & Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version. Be sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.
- Different Candy Bars: Experiment with different types of candy bars, such as Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or Twix bars. Just be mindful of the filling and ensure it’s not too hard or dry.
- Spiced Batter: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Beer Batter: Substitute some of the milk with beer for a lighter, crispier batter with a subtle hoppy flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: After frying, drizzle the candy bars with melted chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I freeze the candy bars before frying?
A: No, freezing the candy bars is not recommended. Freezing can change the texture of the candy and make it difficult to fry properly.
Q: What if my candy bar melts too quickly in the oil?
A: Make sure your oil temperature is not too high. Also, ensure that the candy bars are well-chilled before frying.
Q: Can I use an air fryer instead of deep frying?
A: Yes, you can air fry the candy bars. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Q: How can I prevent the batter from separating from the candy bar?
A: Make sure the candy bar is completely coated in batter and that the batter is thick enough to adhere properly. Chilling the battered candy bar for a few minutes before frying can also help.
Q: What can I serve with deep-fried candy bars?
A: Deep-fried candy bars are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a scoop of ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Final Thoughts
Now it’s your turn to bring the thrilling taste of the fair to your own kitchen! Embrace the indulgence, experiment with different candy bars, and don’t be afraid to share this decadent treat with friends and family. These deep-fried candy bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment and tell us about your experience or any variations you tried. Happy frying!