Fried Twinkies

Fried Twinkies. They sound crazy, right? But trust me, these golden-brown, crispy treats are surprisingly delicious! Imagine a warm, gooey Twinkie wrapped in a delicate, crunchy shell. It’s like a taste of the fair, right in your kitchen. This recipe is a simple, step-by-step guide to making perfect fried Twinkies at home. Get ready for a fun and unexpected dessert adventure!

Why this Fried Twinkie Recipe is Special

This fried Twinkie recipe isn’t just about deep-frying; it’s about creating the ultimate fair food experience. We’ll use a simple batter that creates an extra crispy coating, and I’ll share my secrets for preventing soggy centers. Get ready for a truly unforgettable treat! For more classic fair-inspired treats, try these Bavarian Cream Donuts.

Ingredients

• 1 box (10 count) Twinkies
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying (enough to fill your pot or fryer)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Shopping Tips for the Best Fried Twinkies

Look for Twinkies with a fresh expiration date. You can usually find them in the snack aisle of most grocery stores. For the best frying results, use a high-quality vegetable oil with a high smoke point. I like canola or peanut oil. If you enjoy this frying technique, you might also like these Buffalo Chicken Tenders. Don’t forget the powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch!

Equipment

• Deep fryer or large, heavy-bottomed pot (at least 6 inches deep)
• Candy/deep-fry thermometer
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Wire rack, set over a baking sheet
• Shallow dishes for the flour mixture and batter
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Setting up your Frying Station

Place your fryer or pot on a stable, heat-resistant surface, away from any flammable materials. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case. Make sure your work area is clear and organized for easy access to all your ingredients and tools. Having everything within reach will make the frying process much smoother and safer.

Instructions

These step-by-step instructions will guide you through the process of making delicious fried Twinkies. Looking for other fun ways to use a deep fryer? Check out this recipe for Cream Cheese Wontons.

Preparing the Twinkies for Frying

First, gently unwrap each Twinkie. Be careful not to squish them! If you’re using frozen Twinkies (which can help prevent bursting during frying), let them thaw completely in the refrigerator before unwrapping. Once unwrapped, place the Twinkies on a plate or tray and put them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This will help them firm up and hold their shape during frying. This little trick from my Grandma makes all the difference!

Frying the Twinkies to Golden Perfection

Pour enough vegetable oil into your deep fryer or pot to reach a depth of about 3 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use your candy thermometer to monitor the temperature – accuracy is key here!

While the oil is heating, prepare the batter. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

In another shallow dish, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract.

Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), carefully dip each frozen Twinkie into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off.

Gently place the battered Twinkie into the hot oil, frying no more than 2-3 at a time to avoid overcrowding and lowering the oil temperature.

Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them; they cook fast!

Draining and Cooling

Using tongs or a slotted spoon, carefully remove the fried Twinkies from the oil and place them on the wire rack set over the baking sheet. This allows excess oil to drain away. Let them cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar (if desired) and serving. They’ll be hot, so be careful!

Serving and Variations

Fried Twinkies are delicious on their own, but why stop there? Let’s explore some fun and tasty serving suggestions! For those watching their sugar intake, Healthline offers tips on managing blood sugar levels.

Classic Serving Suggestions

A classic way to enjoy fried Twinkies is simply dusted with powdered sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the golden crust. For a richer experience, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm and cold, crispy and creamy, is simply divine. A drizzle of chocolate sauce never hurts either! If you enjoy ice cream with your desserts, you might also enjoy these Apple Cheesecake Tacos.

Creative Twinkie Topping Ideas

Get creative with your toppings! Try drizzling caramel sauce and sprinkling chopped nuts over your fried Twinkies. A dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries creates a lighter, fruitier option. For a truly decadent treat, consider a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of honey. My kids love adding sprinkles!

Twinkie Filling Variations

Before frying, you can inject fillings into your Twinkies for an extra burst of flavor. Nutella, peanut butter, or fruit preserves are all great options. Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off to inject the filling into the Twinkie. Just a small amount will do the trick. This is a fun way to personalize your fried Twinkies and create unique flavor combinations. Imagine a warm, fried Twinkie filled with melted chocolate! Want more unique dessert ideas? Give these Baked Apple Fritters a whirl.

FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about fried Twinkies.

How to Deep Fry a Twinkie?

Freeze your unwrapped Twinkies for about 30 minutes. Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a simple batter with flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, milk, egg, and vanilla. Dip the frozen Twinkies in the batter, ensuring they’re fully coated. Carefully place them in the hot oil, frying for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Drain on a wire rack and serve warm.

Amount of Energy in Deep Fried Twinkie?

A fried Twinkie is definitely a treat! One serving (one fried Twinkie) contains approximately 250-350 calories, depending on the size and amount of batter and oil absorbed. It also contains sugar and fat. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Remember, treats are okay every now and then!

Origin of Deep Fried Twinkie?

The deep-fried Twinkie is believed to have originated at a county fair, likely in the Midwest, sometime in the early 2000s. Christopher Sell, a Scottish chip shop owner in Brooklyn, New York, is often credited with popularizing them. They quickly became a popular fair food, known for their unique combination of crispy exterior and soft, creamy interior.

Tips and Troubleshooting

Here are a few tips to help you troubleshoot common issues and achieve fried Twinkie perfection.

Achieving the Perfect Golden Crust

Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for a perfect golden crust. Use a thermometer and adjust the heat as needed to keep the oil at a steady 350°F (175°C). Don’t overcrowd the fryer, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy Twinkies. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, watching carefully for that beautiful golden-brown color.

Preventing Soggy Twinkies

Freezing the Twinkies before frying helps prevent them from becoming soggy. Make sure your batter isn’t too thin; a thicker batter creates a better barrier against the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the fryer! Frying too many Twinkies at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to greasy, soggy results.

Handling Sticky Situations

If a Twinkie bursts during frying, carefully remove the larger pieces with tongs to prevent the oil from becoming overly contaminated. If your oil starts to smoke excessively, carefully remove the pot from the heat source and let it cool completely before handling. If a fire starts, do not use water. Smother the flames with a lid or use a fire extinguisher. Safety first!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Fried Twinkies: a surprisingly delicious and fun treat to make at home. It’s easier than you might think, and the result is a truly unforgettable dessert. Give this recipe a try and experience the magic of this fair food favorite. I’d love to hear how your fried Twinkies turn out! Share your photos and experiences in the comments below. Happy frying!

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