Imagine biting into a warm, pillowy cloud that gives way to a melty Oreo cookie core – that’s the irresistible magic of Fried Oreos. This carnival classic is easier to make at home than you might think, and every bite is guaranteed to bring out your inner kid!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Quick: Fried Oreos can go from pantry to plate in under 15 minutes, making them the ultimate last-minute sweet treat!
- Carnival Nostalgia: Each bite captures the fun, playful spirit of state fairs and festivals, all in the comfort of your home.
- Customize to Your Heart’s Content: The base recipe is incredibly versatile—use different cookies, batters, or toppings for endless variations.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Fried Oreos are always the star of any party, family night, or potluck—they truly bring people together!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses just a handful of familiar ingredients, but each one has an important role to play in creating those delightfully fluffy, golden Fried Oreos. If you’ve never made them before, you’ll love how these kitchen staples transform into something magical!
- Oreo cookies: The star of the show! Classic Oreos hold up well during frying and become perfectly soft inside.
- Pancake mix: Creates that dreamy fair-style batter with just the right amount of puff and softness.
- Egg: Binds the batter for a rich, cohesive coating that hugs the cookies.
- Milk: Gives the batter a pourable, dippable texture—whole or 2% milk works best.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash boosts warmth and fragrance, making every bite a little more special.
- Powdered sugar: Used both for dusting and to create a quick, sweet glaze that finishes every Fried Oreo with a flourish.
- Oil for frying: Choose a neutral, high-heat oil like canola or vegetable—these keep the focus on the Oreos, not any oily aftertaste.
- Milk (for glaze): Just a tablespoon blends with powdered sugar for a silky-smooth drizzle on top!
Variations
One of my favorite things about Fried Oreos is how easy it is to mix things up. You can swap, add, or tweak ingredients to suit your cravings or dietary needs—there are so many fun possibilities!
- Try Different Cookies: Don’t stop at classic Oreos—Golden Oreos, peanut butter-filled, or even seasonal flavors can be subbed in for a new twist.
- Change Up the Batter: Use a chocolate or red velvet pancake mix for a double-chocolate treat or a colorful surprise.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute non-dairy milk and a vegan pancake mix to make these completely plant-based.
- Stuffed Oreos: For the truly adventurous, sandwich a bit of peanut butter or Nutella between two Oreos before dipping.
How to Make Fried Oreos
Step 1: Mix the Batter
Start by combining the pancake mix, egg, milk, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Whisk until you have a thick but smooth batter that can easily coat the back of a spoon. This is the secret to that iconic fairground fluffiness!
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Pour oil into a deep pot until it’s about 2 inches deep. Heat over medium-high heat—if you have a thermometer, aim for 350–360ºF. The oil should shimmer but not smoke; drop in a tiny bit of batter to check if it sizzles instantly.
Step 3: Dip and Fry the Oreos
Use a fork or toothpick to dip each Oreo into the batter, gently turning to coat all sides. Carefully lower the coated cookies into the hot oil—don’t crowd the pan! Fry for about 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until perfectly puffed and golden on all sides.
Step 4: Make the Glaze and Finish
While your Fried Oreos are draining on a paper towel, whip up a quick glaze by mixing powdered sugar with just enough milk to reach a thick drizzle. Glaze the warm Oreos, dust with a little extra powdered sugar, and serve right away!
Pro Tips for Making Fried Oreos
- Batter Consistency Counts: Your batter should be thick enough to cling to the Oreos—if it’s too runny, add a touch more pancake mix for the perfect coat.
- Keep That Oil Hot: Use a thermometer if possible and don’t overcrowd the pan, otherwise the Oreos will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Glaze While Warm: Drizzle the sugar glaze over Fried Oreos while they’re still warm for a pretty finish that soaks in just enough sweetness.
- Serve Immediately: These treats are at their absolute best fresh from the fryer, when the center is gooey and the outside has that signature crunch!
How to Serve Fried Oreos
Garnishes
A generous dusting of powdered sugar is classic, but you can go all out with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, caramel, or even rainbow sprinkles. For a grown-up vibe, try a hint of espresso powder or a pinch of sea salt for contrast!
Side Dishes
Pair your Fried Oreos with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a glass of cold milk, or a pile of fresh strawberries for balance. They also shine alongside other fair favorites like funnel cakes or soft pretzels for a fun dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve on a platter with dipping cups of chocolate, caramel, and berry sauces for a DIY dessert bar. Or skewer a few Fried Oreos on a stick for a true carnival touch—they look as fun as they taste!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Fried Oreos left (which is rare!), let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. They’ll lose a bit of their crispiness but remain deliciously soft inside.
Freezing
While Fried Oreos are best fresh, you can freeze them on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag once solid. Thaw at room temperature before reheating—they’ll be softer than fresh, but still satisfy your craving.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in an air fryer or oven at 350ºF for 5–6 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisped. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the batter rubbery instead of fluffy.
FAQs
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Can I make Fried Oreos without a deep fryer?
Absolutely! All you need is a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet filled with about 2 inches of oil. Just monitor the temperature with a thermometer to avoid burning and ensure even frying.
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What’s the best oil for frying Oreos?
Use a neutral-flavored, high-heat oil like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil. These allow the sweet flavors of the Oreos and batter to shine through without adding any unwanted taste.
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Can I use homemade pancake batter?
Yes! Any standard homemade pancake batter that’s not too runny works perfectly for Fried Oreos. Just make sure it’s thick enough to coat each cookie generously.
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Are Fried Oreos safe for kids to make?
Kids can absolutely help with dipping and decorating, but an adult should always handle the hot oil. This recipe is a fantastic family project with proper supervision!
Final Thoughts
It’s honestly impossible not to smile when you serve up a platter of warm, fluffy Fried Oreos. They’re the perfect way to bring a little festival fun home—so treat yourself and your loved ones to this playful, unforgettable dessert. You’ll be hooked after the very first bite!
Print
Fried Oreos Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Frying
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the deliciousness of Fried Oreos with this easy recipe. Crispy on the outside, with a warm, gooey center, these treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 18 Oreo cookies
- 1 1/2 cups pancake mix
- 1 egg
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil for frying
Glaze:
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp. milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, mix pancake mix, egg, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Heat Oil: Heat oil in a deep pot to medium-high (about 180ºC).
- Dip and Fry: Dip each Oreo in the batter, then fry in the oil for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, turning occasionally.
- Make Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with water to create a glaze.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Fried Oreo
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
