Deep Fried Candy Bars

When Deep Fried Candy Bars first debuted at the Minnesota State Fair, they quickly became one of the most talked-about new foods at the fair. The lines stretched for what felt like blocks as everyone waited for a chance to try one. There was something irresistible about taking a favorite candy bar, dipping it in batter, and frying it until it was golden brown and gooey on the inside.

If you missed the fair—or simply want to recreate the experience at home—you’ll be surprised by just how easy this recipe is. A light, fluffy batter wraps around your favorite fun-size candy bars before they’re fried to crispy perfection and finished with a generous dusting of powdered sugar.

Whether you choose Snickers, Milky Way, Twix, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, or another favorite candy bar, this Minnesota State Fair copycat recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minnesota State Fair inspired
• Crispy golden batter
• Warm, melted chocolate center
• Easy homemade carnival dessert
• Great for parties and family movie nights
• Uses your favorite candy bars
• Ready in about 30 minutes

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Ingredients

To make these Deep Fried Candy Bars, you’ll need:

Batter

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 4½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

• 1 large egg
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

For Frying

• Fun-size candy bars
• Vegetable oil
• Powdered sugar for serving

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Equipment You’ll Need

• Deep fryer or heavy Dutch oven
• Candy thermometer
• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Large plate

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How to Make Deep Fried Candy Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Salt
• Cinnamon

In a second bowl, whisk together:

• Egg
• Water
• Milk
• Vanilla extract

Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking until a smooth batter forms.

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Step 2: Heat the Oil

Fill your deep fryer or heavy pot with vegetable oil.

Heat the oil to 375°F.

While the oil heats, line a plate with paper towels to drain the fried candy bars.

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Step 3: Coat the Candy Bars

Dip each fun-size candy bar into the batter.

Completely coat the candy bar, allowing any excess batter to drip back into the bowl.

Too much batter can make the coating cook unevenly.

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Step 4: Fry

Carefully lower the battered candy bars into the hot oil.

Fry for about 1 minute per side, turning once, until the batter is evenly golden brown.

Cook only a few at a time to maintain the oil temperature.

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Step 5: Drain

Use a slotted spoon to remove the candy bars from the oil.

Transfer them to the paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

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Step 6: Finish

Dust generously with powdered sugar.

Serve immediately while the candy bars are warm and the chocolate is perfectly melted.

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Tips for Perfect Deep Fried Candy Bars

• Freeze the candy bars for about 30 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
• Shake off excess batter before frying.
• Keep the oil at 375°F.
• Fry in small batches.
• Serve immediately for the best gooey center.

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Best Candy Bars to Fry

Almost any fun-size candy bar works well, including:

• Snickers
• Milky Way
• Twix
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
• 3 Musketeers
• Baby Ruth
• Butterfinger
• Milky Way Midnight

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Serving Suggestions

These Deep Fried Candy Bars are delicious with:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Chocolate ice cream
• Caramel sauce
• Chocolate syrup
• Whipped cream
• Fresh strawberries
• Powdered sugar

Perfect for:

• Minnesota State Fair-themed parties
• Birthday parties
• Family movie nights
• Carnival-themed events
• Summer celebrations

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Storage

Deep Fried Candy Bars are best enjoyed fresh.

If you have leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheat in a 350°F air fryer or oven for 3–5 minutes until warmed through.

Avoid microwaving, which can soften the crispy coating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use full-size candy bars?

Fun-size candy bars work best because they’re easier to coat and fry evenly, but full-size bars can be cut into smaller pieces if desired.

Should I freeze the candy bars first?

Freezing them for about 30 minutes helps prevent the chocolate from melting too quickly during frying.

What oil works best?

Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are all excellent choices because they have high smoke points.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Traditional deep frying gives the best results. Air frying won’t produce the same light, crispy batter.

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These Deep Fried Candy Bars bring one of the most exciting Minnesota State Fair desserts straight to your kitchen. With a crispy golden coating, warm melted chocolate center, and a generous dusting of powdered sugar, they’re every bit as indulgent as the originals that once drew some of the longest lines at the fair. Whether you’re making them for a themed party, family dessert night, or simply because you’re craving classic carnival food, this easy copycat recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Don’t forget to check back tomorrow to see what Minnesota State Fair inspired food we are making. Also, be sure to check out our other state fair recipes.