It’s time to get your carnival on, whether that means hosting a school carnival or just bringing the excitement into your own backyard. For many people, the highlight of any fair or carnival is the food – sweet, salty, crunchy, and oh-so-delicious! Whether you’re spinning around on thrill rides, watching mesmerizing performances, or competing in games of skill, good eats are always a key part of the experience.
Iconic treats like corn dogs, crispy onion rings, and decadent desserts like deep-fried cheesecake are just the beginning. And if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable fair food experience, we’ve got you covered! Here’s our ultimate list of 27 carnival foods to try – from classic favorites to creative twists that’ll make your taste buds do the midway shuffle.
Chocolate Covered Bacon
When the savory and sweet worlds collide, something truly magical happens. The perfect union of bacon’s bold, smoky flavor and rich, velvety chocolate creates a delightful treat that will tantalize your taste buds. This unconventional pairing may seem unusual at first, but trust us – the combination of crispy, salty bacon and decadent, creamy chocolate is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re looking for a sweet indulgence or a savory snack, this innovative treat has got you covered.
Fried Ice Cream
This unique ice cream boasts a crispy, crunchy exterior and a creamy, cold vanilla interior. What’s more exciting is the versatility of this treat – you can pair it with numerous other flavors of ice cream! A notable benefit is its impressive melting resistance. Moreover, it’s surprisingly feasible to briefly deep-fry a generous scoop of this coated ice cream, yielding an unparalleled eating experience.
Fried Chicken Tenders
When it comes to indulging in mouth-watering chicken tenders, we have a soft spot for those that are marinated in seasoned buttermilk and then pan-fried to perfection. The buttermilk plays a crucial role in tenderizing the chicken, resulting in a juicy interior and crispy exterior that’s simply irresistible.
These delectable strips of meat are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a satisfying solo dinner.
Whether you’re craving something spicy with a dipping sauce like buffalo sauce or sweet with honey mustard, these chicken tenders are sure to hit the spot!
Beer-Battered Onion Rings
Indulge in the irresistible charm of onion rings! Their satisfying crunch gives way to a delightful harmony of sweet and spicy flavors that complement a variety of dipping sauces, including the boldness of chili dip and the richness of creamy garlic aioli. The subtle influence of beer’s malty flavor in the batter adds a depth of sweetness and nutty undertones. This versatile batter can also be used to create mouthwatering treats from jalapeños to eggplant, zucchini, and more.
Elephant Ears
Fried dough aficionados will likely be familiar with the indulgent treats known as elephant ears. These crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated morsels are a staple at state fairs, food trucks, carnivals, and theme parks, where they’re often served alongside an array of sweet toppings. Fry bread, as it’s also affectionately known, is a crowd-pleaser that can be customized with powdered sugar, frosting, chocolate, or strawberry sauce to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Fried Mac And Cheese Bites
Indulge in the irresistible combination of crispy crunch on the outside and creamy, cheesy goodness within the fried mac and cheese bites. The secret to their exceptional texture lies in the use of Panko breadcrumbs, which produce a lighter, flakier consistency that effortlessly absorbs less oil, yielding a satisfying crunch without sacrificing flavor. This delightful treat is sure to leave you licking your fingers in satisfaction.
Kettle Corn
Savoring the quintessential fair experience isn’t complete without a handful of Kettle Corn. The defining characteristic of this beloved snack is its harmonious balance of sweetness and a hint of saltiness that lingers in the aftertaste. What sets Kettle Corn apart from traditional popcorn is the deliberate addition of sugar, which dissolves and envelops the popping kernels as they’re heated, yielding a delightful sweet and salty flavor combination.
This delectable treat also makes for an excellent accompaniment to movie nights or a quick dessert fix.
Deep Fried Oreos
While Oreo dessert recipes may seem ubiquitous, this one stands out from the crowd. The versatility of Oreos lies in their ability to be transformed into a wide range of treats, each tailored to your unique preferences. From Birthday Cake Oreos’ sweet, celebratory flair to Double Stuffed Oreos’ indulgent richness and Golden Oreos’ subtle, sunny charm, the possibilities are endless. The best part?
You can whip up these creations with everyday pantry staples, garnish them with powdered sugar or sprinkles for added whimsy, and indulge in a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Deep Fried Pickles
Indulge in the irresistible allure of Carnival’s fried creations. The crispy, savory treats are notoriously addictive, with the iconic fried pickles taking center stage. The harmonious balance of tangy dill pickle flavor and satisfying crunch makes it impossible to stop at just one. While they’re undoubtedly delightful on their own, the magic truly unfolds when paired with a rich, homemade ranch seasoning for an unparalleled snacking experience.
Whoopie Pie
Indulge in these sweet treats and let your cravings be satisfied. When it comes to filling options, vanilla buttercream and marshmallow cream are the clear winners. The former is typically crafted with a blend of butter, powdered sugar, milk, cream, and the essence of vanilla, creating a rich and creamy delight. In contrast, marshmallow cream takes on a sweeter tone, infused with the flavors of vanilla extract and marshmallow fluff.
Regardless of which route you choose, one thing is certain – these bite-sized wonders are sure to put a smile on your face.
Lemonade
There’s no denying the timeless appeal of homemade lemonade as a way to beat the heat. But what really sets it apart is its simplicity. With just three basic ingredients – sugar, water, and freshly squeezed lemon juice – you can whip up a batch in no time. The result is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy that’s nothing short of refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up after a long day or a way to quench your thirst on a hot summer afternoon, this classic recipe delivers.
Cream Puffs
Cream puffs are a timeless pastry delight that combines a delicate balance of textures and flavors. At first glance, their golden-brown exteriors seem brittle and fragile, but one bite reveals a tender, fluffy crumb within. This harmonious union is achieved by combining choux pastry, whipped cream, and powdered sugar. Choux dough, the foundation of this treat, is surprisingly straightforward to prepare, requiring only water, flour, eggs, and butter as its primary ingredients.
What sets it apart from other pastry doughs is its reliance on water rather than baking powder or yeast to create its signature puffed texture.
Churros
Imagine sinking your teeth into warm, crispy fried dough coated with a generous helping of cinnamon sugar. As you take that first bite, the sweetness is balanced by the richness of a decadent chocolate fondue. The combination may remind you of classic cinnamon doughnuts, but it’s the delightful contrast in texture that truly elevates this treat. While churros are often linked to Mexican cuisine, their origins can be traced back to traditional street food in Spain.
The key to their unique character lies not in yeast-leavened dough, but rather in the use of choux pastry, which yields a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.
Funnel Cakes
Carnivals and fairs would be incomplete without indulging in the delightful experience of savoring freshly made Funnel Cakes. The allure of these sweet treats lies in their texture, with a soft and fluffy interior complemented by a satisfying crunch on the outside. While Funnel Cake is a beloved dessert in its own right, there’s something truly special about crafting it yourself from scratch.
The process of puffing the batter into a majestic swirl cake and dusting it with powdered sugar adds an extra layer of joy to this already delightful treat. And for those looking to revive their funnel cakes at a later time, we’ve got a trusted tip for reheating these sweet indulgences to perfection.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Indulge in the ultimate chocolate chip cookie experience with this exceptional recipe. With a perfect balance of textures, these chewy treats boast a golden brown crust giving way to a soft, gooey center that’s sure to please even the most discerning chocoholic. The satisfying combination of flavors and textures will leave you craving more, ensuring each bite is nothing short of perfection.
Caramel Apples
A classic fall treat that’s perfect for snacking on while visiting a fair or making with your little ones at home. The harmony between the sweetness of the caramel and the tanginess of the green apple creates a delightful flavor combination that’s sure to please! Plus, you can’t go wrong using store-bought caramel – it still delivers plenty of deliciousness.
Watermelon Slushie
Beat the heat with Watermelon Slushies that will quench your thirst and leave you wanting more. The harmonious blend of watermelon and lime flavors creates a zesty, revitalizing treat that’s perfect for hot summer days. And the best part? You can take it to the next level by mixing in other fruits like strawberries or raspberries, adding a touch of sweetness without sacrificing the refreshing essence.
Chili Cheese Fries
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food trifecta: crispy fries smothered in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce and topped with a generous helping of spicy chili. This mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures has won over the hearts (and taste buds) of both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic treat or just looking to satisfy your cravings, this trio of cheese, chili, and fries is sure to hit the spot.
Corn Dogs
Corn dogs are a beloved carnival tradition that never goes out of style! The recipe involves coating plump hot dogs in a savory and sweet cornbread batter, then deep-frying them to a golden crisp. There’s nothing quite like savoring a freshly fried corn dog right off the fryer, paired with your favorite toppings. For an added layer of indulgence, we suggest serving these tasty treats alongside sweet potato fries or creamy macaroni salad – you won’t be disappointed!
Snow Cone
Indulge in the delightful union of taste and visual appeal that these vibrant snow cones offer. The frozen treats’ kaleidoscope of colors and succulent flavors are sure to transport you to a world of pure bliss. Gathering with family and friends to concoct unique flavor combinations can be an enjoyable bonding experience, making these snow cones an excellent way to commemorate special occasions like holidays and festivals.
Deep Fried Cheesecake
Indulge in the sweet excitement of bringing the fair to your home by crafting scrumptious deep-fried cheesecakes. The harmonious blend of sugary batter and cream cheese yields a delightfully tangy flavor profile, perfectly balanced for an irresistible treat. With this recipe, you’ll discover how to effortlessly transform ordinary ingredients into a golden-brown, gooey masterpiece that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
And don’t forget to top them off with a fruity twist – strawberry or blueberry sauce is always a crowd-pleaser!
Loaded Nachos
The harmonious union of bell peppers, beans, creamy avocado, and savory ground beef creates a flavorful combination that’s hard to resist. This quartet of ingredients works together in perfect harmony, with each component complementing the others. The bright, bold flavors of the vegetables and the richness of the avocado and beef create a delightful contrast that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And the best part?
Nachos are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort and time to cook. Simply serve them fresh from the oven for the most vibrant flavor experience.
Soft Pretzels
Indulge in the classic recipe for soft pretzels that will transport you back to a simpler time. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be rewarded with chewy, golden-brown treats that are perfect for snacking on their own or pairing with your favorite cheese dip. The nostalgia factor is undeniable – who didn’t grow up loving the soft, buttery goodness of freshly baked pretzels at theme parks and fairs?
But the best part is, you can recreate this magic in the comfort of your own home, no need to wait for a special occasion. So go ahead, get creative with your toppings or enjoy them plain – either way, these soft pretzels are sure to become an instant favorite!
Fried Green Tomatoes
Indulge in the delightful experience of Fried Green Tomatoes, a culinary delight that will tantalize your taste buds! The crispy exterior and fluffy interior, perfectly balanced by a savory batter, are simply irresistible. But what truly sets this dish apart is the quality of its star ingredient: sturdy, unripe green tomatoes. These are not just any ordinary tomatoes – they’re the key to achieving the perfect texture for deep-frying.
When cooked to perfection, the sweetness of the green tomato shines through, making every bite a joy to savor.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich
Why settle for a single indulgence when you can combine the best of both worlds? The perfect marriage of ice cream and cookies creates a treat that’s hard to resist. The creamy texture of ice cream is beautifully complemented by the right cookies, which offer a satisfying crunch, richness, and sweetness. This nostalgic delight is sure to become a quick dessert staple in your household.
BBQ Turkey Legs
The quintessential festival experience wouldn’t be complete without sinking your teeth into a tender and flavorful turkey leg. To elevate this classic treat, cooks often employ a two-step process: boiling the legs until they’re fall-apart soft, followed by a good grilling to caramelize the exterior. A rich barbeque sauce is the perfect accompaniment, adding a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
These crowd-pleasing morsels are suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a special celebration – they’re sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.
Monkey Tails (Chocolate Covered Bananas)
In search of a sweet treat that’s quick to prepare? Look no further than our indulgent recipe for Chocolate-Covered Bananas, which boasts an impressive simplicity. With just two essential components – a perfectly ripe banana and melted chocolate chips – you’ll be on the path to creating a delightful dessert in mere moments. But don’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with crunchy toppings or take things to the next level by chilling your bananas in the freezer.
We’re willing to bet that despite its humble ingredients, this treat will surprise you with its sheer tastiness.
The bottom line
As we reflect on the evolution of fair foods, it’s clear that they’ve undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Gone are the days when these sweet and savory treats were simply a novelty; today, they’re a staple of many a carnival or fair-going experience. For many of us, the mere mention of fair foods is enough to transport us back to a bygone era, when life was simpler and the smell of sugary delights wafted through the air. And who can blame us?
These tasty treats have a way of evoking memories of childhood summers spent laughing with friends and indulging in guilty pleasures. So why not take a page from our collective past and bring that sense of nostalgia into your present? Whether you’re looking to create some fun carnival foods for a school event or simply want to bring the excitement of the fair to your own backyard, we’ve got you covered.
In this collection of recipes, we’ll show you how to recreate those classic carnival treats that bring people together and put smiles on faces.
