Decadent Deep Fried Pop Tarts: The Ultimate Recipe for a Crispy, Sweet Childhood Treat
Prepare to elevate your dessert game with an unbelievably decadent treat: **Deep Fried Pop Tarts**. This recipe transforms a classic childhood breakfast pastry into a golden-brown, crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside masterpiece. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a dessert that rivals any carnival treat. It’s a delightful twist that will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring back a flood of nostalgic memories, all while offering a truly unique flavor and texture experience.
If you thought regular Pop Tarts were delicious, wait until you try them deep-fried. This method locks in the fruity or chocolatey filling, creating an incredibly warm and melty center, while the outer pancake batter coating fries up to a perfectly crispy, golden perfection. It’s a sweet, delicious, and surprisingly simple dessert that’s perfect for a special occasion, a fun weekend treat, or even a late-night indulgence. Forget your toaster; it’s time to deep-fry your way to dessert heaven!
Fried Pop Tarts have quickly become one of our absolute favorite deep-fried desserts. We’re talking about a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying recipe that will impress everyone who tries it. These sweet little pastries are guaranteed to fulfill your deepest cravings for something sugary and indulgent. Our family also adores other fried delights like Deep Fried Nutella and Deep Fried Honey Buns, and for those who love all things sugary, don’t forget to check out our list of 25 Best Cotton Candy Desserts. But today, the star of the show is undeniably the Deep Fried Pop Tart, a recipe you simply must try!
What’s in this post: Deep Fried Pop Tarts
- Why we love this recipe
- Ingredients
- Variations & Customization Tips
- How to Make Deep Fried Pop Tarts: Step-by-Step Guide
- Irresistible Topping Ideas
- Expert Tips for Perfectly Fried Pop Tarts
- How to Store & Reheat
- More Deep Fried Desserts to Try
- Deep Fried Pop Tarts Recipe Card
Why We Love This Deep Fried Pop Tart Recipe
There are countless reasons why this deep fried Pop Tart recipe has become a household favorite. Firstly, it’s fried to absolute perfection, creating a crunchy, golden exterior that is far superior to any store-bought toasted version. The transformation is truly remarkable; the pastry becomes incredibly flaky, and the filling turns wonderfully warm and gooey. This recipe makes such a visually appealing pastry, reminiscent of something you’d find at a state fair, yet it’s incredibly easy to achieve in your own kitchen.
Beyond the delightful texture, this recipe is effortlessly adaptable, allowing you to create the ultimate dessert experience tailored to your preferences. Whether you choose a classic strawberry Pop Tart or a more adventurous flavor, the deep-frying process enhances its inherent sweetness and richness. It’s the perfect comfort food, a gooey-perfection for any time of day – from a fun breakfast treat to a midnight snack or a quick, impressive dessert after dinner. Most importantly, one bite is guaranteed to transport you back to cherished childhood memories, evoking a sense of joy and nostalgia that only a truly special treat can provide.
Simple Ingredients for Deep Fried Pop Tarts
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need a few readily available ingredients to create this show-stopping dessert. We’ve broken down the essential components to ensure you have everything you need for success.
For the Pop Tarts:
- Hot Fudge Sundae Pop Tarts: While the recipe specifically calls for Hot Fudge Sundae flavor, feel free to choose your personal favorite. The key is to pick a flavor that will melt beautifully and taste fantastic when warmed.
- Pancake Mix: A standard box of pancake mix (like Bisquick) forms the base of our crispy batter. It’s a convenient shortcut that delivers consistent results.
- Egg: Helps bind the batter ingredients together, ensuring a smooth and even coating for your Pop Tarts.
- Milk: Used to thin out the pancake mix to the perfect consistency for dipping. Any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy) will work.
- Vegetable Oil: You’ll need a sufficient amount for deep frying. Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil.
For the Toppings:
The toppings are where you can truly customize your deep-fried Pop Tart experience! Here are the classic suggestions, but don’t hesitate to get creative:
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, fluffy whipped cream provides a cool contrast to the warm pastry.
- Sprinkles: Add a pop of color and fun, especially if you’re serving these to kids or at a party.
- Cherries: A maraschino cherry on top is the quintessential finishing touch, completing the dessert aesthetic.
The complete ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Exciting Variations & Customization Tips
One of the best things about this deep fried Pop Tart recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or to use whatever you have on hand. Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Pop Tart Flavors: Don’t limit yourself to just one type! This recipe shines with virtually any Pop Tart flavor. Experiment with classics like strawberry, blueberry, cherry, or chocolate fudge for a traditional taste. For a more adventurous twist, try S’mores, Cinnamon Roll, or even a seasonal flavor. Each one will offer a unique and delicious fried experience. Imagine a warm, gooey S’mores Pop Tart with a crispy batter – simply divine!
- Deep Fryer vs. Pot: While the instructions detail using a large pot or Dutch oven, you can absolutely use a dedicated deep fryer if you own one. A deep fryer provides consistent temperature control, which can make the frying process even easier and more precise. Just follow your appliance’s instructions for preheating oil to the correct temperature.
- Batter Enhancements: Elevate your pancake batter by adding a pinch of cinnamon, a splash of vanilla extract, or a tablespoon of powdered sugar for extra sweetness and flavor. You could even add a tiny bit of almond extract if you’re using a fruit-filled Pop Tart.
- Savory Options (for the adventurous!): While Pop Tarts are inherently sweet, the concept of deep-frying other pastries is boundless. For a truly unique experience, consider deep-frying other types of pre-made pastries that might lean savory, though for Pop Tarts, we recommend sticking to sweet.
- Glazes and Drizzles: Instead of just whipped cream, consider other glazes. A simple powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar mixed with a touch of milk or water) or a chocolate drizzle can add another layer of flavor and visual appeal.
- Serving Suggestions: These fried delights aren’t just for dessert! They make a fantastic brunch item, a fun party snack, or even a special breakfast treat on a lazy weekend.
How to Make Decadent Deep Fried Pop Tarts: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these irresistible deep-fried Pop Tarts is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these easy steps to achieve golden, crispy perfection every time. Remember, safety first when working with hot oil!
Step 1. Prepare the Frying Oil. Add about 3 inches of vegetable oil (or your preferred high-smoke-point oil) to a large, heavy-bottomed pot, a sturdy large saucepan, or a Dutch oven. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you have a deep-fry thermometer, this is the best way to ensure accuracy. If not, you can test a small drop of batter – it should sizzle immediately and float to the top.
Step 2. Prepare the Pancake Batter. In a separate large mixing bowl, get ready to create your simple and delicious batter. This will be the crispy coating for your Pop Tarts.
Step 3. Combine Batter Ingredients. To your large bowl, add the pancake mix, egg, milk, and 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil. Whisk all the ingredients gently until they are just combined and relatively smooth. It’s okay if there are a few small lumps, but avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a tougher batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the Pop Tart but thin enough to drip off slightly.
Step 4. Dip the Pop Tarts. Carefully take one Pop Tart at a time and completely immerse it in the prepared pancake batter. Ensure it’s fully coated on all sides. Allow any excess batter to drip off back into the bowl for a few seconds before gently placing the coated Pop Tart into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot; fry only one or two at a time, depending on the size of your pot, to maintain oil temperature.
Step 5. Fry Until Golden Brown. Allow the Pop Tarts to cook for approximately 3-4 minutes in the hot oil. Midway through the cooking time, carefully use tongs to flip each Pop Tart. This ensures that both sides brown evenly and develop that irresistible crispy texture. Watch closely, as frying times can vary slightly based on oil temperature and your stove.
Step 6. Drain and Serve. Once the deep-fried Pop Tarts are a beautiful golden brown on all sides, carefully remove them from the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Transfer them immediately to a plate lined with several layers of paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil, ensuring your Pop Tarts are crispy, not greasy. Allow them to cool for just a minute or two – they are best served warm! Then, generously top with whipped cream, colorful sprinkles, and a classic maraschino cherry. Enjoy your truly decadent creation!
Irresistible Topping Ideas for Your Fried Pop Tarts
While deep-fried Pop Tarts are fantastic on their own, the right toppings can elevate them to an entirely new level of deliciousness. Get creative and make your dessert a true masterpiece! Here are some of our favorite topping ideas:
- Whipped Cream: A classic for a reason! Light, airy whipped cream provides a cool and creamy contrast to the warm, crispy pastry. You can use store-bought aerosol cans or make your own fresh whipped cream for an extra touch of gourmet.
- Cherries: Maraschino cherries add a vibrant pop of color and a delightful fruity sweetness. They’re the perfect finishing touch for a classic diner-style dessert.
- Sprinkles: Whether you prefer rainbow, chocolate, or themed sprinkles, they instantly make your Pop Tarts more fun and visually appealing. Kids (and adults!) love them!
- Chocolate Syrup: A generous drizzle of chocolate syrup can turn your fried Pop Tart into a rich, chocolatey dream. It pairs exceptionally well with chocolate or strawberry Pop Tarts.
- Caramel Syrup: For a buttery, sweet, and slightly salty kick, a swirl of caramel syrup is a fantastic choice. It complements fruit and brown sugar cinnamon Pop Tarts beautifully.
- Ice Cream: Turn your deep-fried Pop Tart into an à la mode experience! Choose your favorite flavor of ice cream – vanilla, chocolate, or even strawberry – and top each warm serving with a scoop. The combination of warm pastry and cold, melting ice cream is a mega-sweet treat that’s hard to beat.
- Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and subtle sweetness without overpowering the Pop Tart’s original flavor.
- Nutella Drizzle: For chocolate-hazelnut lovers, warm a spoonful of Nutella and drizzle it over your fried Pop Tart. Pure bliss!
- Chopped Nuts: Add a delightful crunch with chopped peanuts, walnuts, or pecans. They provide a textural contrast and a nutty flavor that pairs well with many Pop Tart varieties.
- Fruit Slices: Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries can add a burst of freshness and a slight tang, balancing the sweetness of the fried pastry.
Expert Tips for Perfectly Fried Pop Tarts
Achieving perfectly crispy and delicious deep-fried Pop Tarts is easy with these helpful tips. Paying attention to these small details will make all the difference in your final result!
- Mind the Batter Consistency: When mixing the pancake batter, aim for a consistency that is thick enough to coat the Pop Tart thoroughly but still allows excess to drip off easily. Gently mix until just combined; overmixing can develop gluten, leading to a tougher, less desirable crust. A few small lumps are perfectly fine!
- Fry Immediately: For the best results, dip your Pop Tart into the batter and immediately transfer it to the hot oil. This prevents the batter from becoming soggy or separating from the pastry before frying.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: The oil temperature is crucial for even cooking and a crispy exterior. Aim for a temperature between 350-375°F (175-190°C). If the oil is too cool, the Pop Tarts will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is properly warmed and gooey. Use a thermometer if possible, and adjust heat as needed between batches.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Fry only one or two Pop Tarts at a time, depending on the size of your pot. Overcrowding will cause the oil temperature to drop significantly, leading to uneven cooking and greasy Pop Tarts. Give each pastry enough space to fry properly.
- Flip for Even Browning: Ensure each Pop Tart is flipped halfway through the frying process. This guarantees that both sides develop a beautiful, golden-brown fried outer layer and are cooked evenly.
- Drain Excess Oil: As soon as the Pop Tarts are done frying, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. The paper towels will absorb any excess oil, helping to keep them crispy and delicious.
- Serve Warm: Deep-fried Pop Tarts are absolutely best served warm, shortly after frying, when the crust is at its crispiest and the filling is wonderfully gooey.
- Safety First: Always exercise caution when deep frying. Use a sturdy pot, keep a lid nearby in case of a grease fire, and never leave hot oil unattended. Keep children and pets away from the cooking area.
How to Store & Reheat Deep Fried Pop Tarts
While deep-fried Pop Tarts are undeniably at their peak when served fresh and warm, you can certainly store any leftovers to enjoy later. Proper storage ensures they retain as much of their deliciousness as possible.
These treats are best consumed immediately after frying for optimal crispiness. However, if you have any leftovers, allow them to cool completely to room temperature first. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. To prevent them from sticking together and to absorb any residual oil, it’s a good idea to separate individual Pop Tarts with a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper. Store the airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored deep-fried Pop Tarts, you can reheat them to restore some of their original charm. The best way to regain some crispiness is to reheat them in an oven or toaster oven at around 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust begins to crisp up again. Avoid microwaving, as this will likely result in a soft, soggy texture rather than a crispy one.
More Deep Fried Desserts to Try
If you’ve fallen in love with the magic of deep-frying desserts, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of crispy, gooey, and indulgent treats waiting to be discovered. Here are some other fantastic deep-fried dessert recipes from our collection that we highly recommend you try:
- Deep Fried Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: A chocolate-peanut butter lover’s dream, transformed into a warm, melty fried delight.
- Easy Fried Oreos: A carnival classic you can easily make at home, featuring a soft, cake-like batter around a warm Oreo.
- Fried Cookie Dough: Indulge in warm, gooey cookie dough wrapped in a crispy fried shell.
- Deep Fried Snickers Recipe: Experience the rich caramel, nougat, and peanuts of a Snickers bar, encased in a golden, fried batter.
- Funnel Cake with Pancake Mix: Create a classic fairground favorite using a simple pancake mix for an easy, delicious treat.
Give this delicious fair food a try today and experience the joy of a homemade indulgent dessert. Don’t forget to come back and leave a star recipe rating and tell us which Pop Tart flavor you chose!
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Deep Fried Pop Tarts
Ingredients
For the Pop Tarts:
- 4 Hot Fudge Sundae Pop Tarts
- 1 1/2 cups Pancake Mix
- 1 Egg
- 1 cup Milk
- 2 tsp Vegetable Oil plus more for Frying
For the Toppings:
- Whipped Cream
- Sprinkles
- Cherries
Instructions
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Heat 3 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C).
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In a large bowl, gently whisk together the pancake mix, egg, milk, and 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Carefully dip each Pop Tart into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow excess batter to drip off, then gently place the coated Pop Tart into the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning them halfway through the cook time with tongs to brown both sides evenly. Fry one or two at a time to maintain oil temperature.
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Once golden brown, carefully remove the deep-fried Pop Tarts from the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
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Serve immediately while warm! Top generously with whipped cream, colorful sprinkles, and a maraschino cherry. Enjoy your delicious, homemade deep-fried Pop Tarts!
Recipe Notes
For the best taste and texture, these deep-fried Pop Tarts are best enjoyed fresh and warm. If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To prevent sticking and absorb excess oil, you can place wax paper between each pastry. Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven for a few minutes to regain some crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
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