Irresistibly Delicious Deep Fried Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: Your Ultimate Guide to a Crispy, Gooey Treat

Prepare yourself for an extraordinary indulgence! These Deep Fried Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are incredibly easy to make right in your own kitchen. Forget the long lines at the State Fair – now you can savor this rich and creamy, crispy, and utterly decadent treat any day of the week, bringing that beloved carnival experience straight to your home.

Are you a fan of ooey-gooey, warm, deep-fried desserts? Does the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter make your heart sing? If so, then you’re in for a truly special treat! Our family absolutely adores deep-fried delights, and when it comes to the perfect pairing, nothing beats chocolate and peanut butter. We have a soft spot for Reese’s Desserts, and this recipe for deep-fried Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups takes that love to an entirely new level of deliciousness.

The secret to achieving that perfect balance of a wonderfully crispy exterior and a gloriously melted, gooey interior lies in one simple but crucial step: freezing the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups before they take a dip in the hot oil. This preparation ensures the chocolate and peanut butter maintain their shape and melt beautifully without completely disintegrating, creating an exquisite textural contrast that is simply irresistible. We’ve been mastering the art of deep-frying sweet treats for years, including crowd-pleasers like Deep Fried Cookie Dough, and this Reese’s recipe quickly became another cherished favorite.

Why This Recipe Works: The Magic Behind the Crispy-Gooey Perfection

Just like many of our other beloved fried treats, such as the wildly popular Deep Fried Oreos, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are not only suitable for deep-frying but are absolutely transformed by it. We experimented with deep frying Reese’s Cups, and the results were nothing short of spectacular. This recipe works because it leverages a simple yet effective technique that guarantees a truly memorable dessert experience.

• Perfect Temperature Control: The primary reason for freezing the Reese’s Cups is to prevent them from melting too quickly when introduced to hot oil. A frozen candy will heat up gradually, allowing the batter to cook and crisp up into a golden shell before the interior becomes a molten river of chocolate and peanut butter.
• Irresistible Textural Contrast: The magic of a deep-fried Reese’s lies in the delightful contrast. You get a crunchy, golden-brown pancake batter coating on the outside, giving way to a warm, soft, and exquisitely gooey chocolate and peanut butter filling. This dual texture is what elevates it from a simple candy to an extraordinary dessert.
• Enhanced Flavor Profile: Frying at the correct temperature actually enhances the flavor of both the chocolate and peanut butter. The heat mellows the chocolate slightly and brings out the nutty richness of the peanut butter, creating a more intense and satisfying taste sensation that melts in your mouth.
• Simplicity and Speed: Despite sounding elaborate, this recipe is surprisingly quick and straightforward. With just a few basic ingredients and a simple frying process, you can achieve a gourmet-level dessert in minutes, making it perfect for last-minute cravings or an unexpected treat.

The outcome is a truly decadent and intensely delicious confection that is sure to impress. I can’t wait for you to experience them for yourself. Get ready for that perfectly gooey inside and wonderfully crispy outside!

Essential Ingredients for Your Deep Fried Delight

Creating these heavenly deep-fried Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups requires just a handful of common ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, relying on staples you likely already have on hand or can easily find at any grocery store.

• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: The star of our show! Make sure to use full-size Reese’s Cups, not the miniature ones, as they hold up better to the frying process and provide a more substantial, satisfying bite. It’s absolutely crucial that these are frozen solid before you start. This prevents them from melting too quickly in the hot oil, ensuring the batter cooks perfectly around them.
• Pancake Mix: This forms the delicious, crispy coating. You can use any brand of pancake mix you prefer – a complete mix that only requires water works well, or a standard mix where you add eggs and milk. The key is to achieve a smooth, slightly thick batter that will adhere well to the frozen Reese’s Cups.
• Large Egg: If your pancake mix isn’t a “just add water” type, a large egg helps bind the batter ingredients together, providing structure and richness to the coating. Even with complete mixes, sometimes an extra egg can make the batter a bit more robust.
• Milk: Essential for thinning the pancake mix into the right consistency. Whole milk will yield the richest flavor and a slightly creamier batter, but 2% or even skim milk can be used if that’s what you have. For a dairy-free option, almond or soy milk can work, though they might alter the texture slightly.
• Vegetable Oil (plus more for Frying): A small amount of oil is added to the batter itself, which contributes to a tender interior for the coating. The main amount, however, is for deep frying. Choose a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. You’ll need enough to fill your pot or Dutch oven to at least 3 inches deep for proper frying.
• Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): This is the perfect finishing touch! A generous dusting of powdered sugar adds an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful, classic fair-food aesthetic. It makes the treat even more decadent and appealing.

You’ll find the complete list of exact measurements and quantities for these ingredients in the detailed recipe card located at the bottom of the page.

How to Make Deep Fried Reese’s: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making these Deep Fried Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups is a straightforward process, but following these steps carefully will ensure you achieve that perfect crispy exterior and wonderfully gooey interior every time.

• Step 1: Prepare Your Frying Setup. Begin by pouring about 3 inches of vegetable, canola, or peanut oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Place it over medium-high heat. You’ll want the oil to reach a temperature between 350°F and 375°F (175°C and 190°C). Using a candy or deep-fry thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy, as maintaining the correct oil temperature is key to perfectly fried treats. While the oil heats, ensure you have your frozen Reese’s Cups nearby, but keep them in the freezer until you are ready to dip.

Serving Suggestions for an Unforgettable Dessert

Deep Fried Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are a showstopper on their own, but a few simple additions can elevate them to an even more spectacular dessert experience. They are best served warm, allowing that molten chocolate and peanut butter center to truly shine.

• Classic Powdered Sugar: The simplest and often best way to enjoy them is freshly fried and generously dusted with powdered sugar. It adds a delicate sweetness and a beautiful, classic fair-food finish.
• Decadent Drizzles: Take it up a notch with a drizzle of your favorite sauce. A warm Hot Fudge Sauce or rich caramel sauce creates an incredible flavor profile, blending with the chocolate and peanut butter.
• Creamy Accompaniments: A dollop of Homemade Whipped Cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich fried candy. For a true ice cream shop experience, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream – the hot and cold combination is pure bliss!
• Crunchy Toppings: Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or even a few extra Reese’s Pieces for added texture and a burst of flavor.
• Fruit Pairings: While less common, a side of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries can offer a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness and richness of the fried Reese’s.

Storage Tips: Best Enjoyed Fresh

While these Deep Fried Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are undeniably at their absolute peak when served immediately, it’s possible to store leftovers if you happen to have any! The crispy exterior is best right out of the fryer, but the gooey interior remains delicious.

To store, first ensure they have completely cooled to room temperature. Once cool, place them in an airtight container. This will help prevent them from drying out or absorbing ambient moisture, which can make the batter coating soggy. Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they will keep for approximately 1 to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, which may extend their freshness slightly.

Reheating: To attempt to revive some crispness, you can briefly reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes or in a conventional oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and the batter crisps slightly. Microwaving is not recommended, as it will make the coating very soft and chewy.

Expert Frying Tips for Perfect Results

Achieving the perfect Deep Fried Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup is easy with these essential tips that ensure a crispy exterior and a wonderfully melted interior every time.

• Freeze the Candy Thoroughly: This is the most crucial step! We recommend freezing the full-size Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for at least 1 to 2 hours, or even overnight, before frying. A fully frozen candy will resist melting too quickly in the hot oil, giving the batter ample time to cook and crisp up around it. This prevents the chocolate from melting and oozing out prematurely into the frying oil, which can make a mess and affect the oil’s quality.
• Timing is Everything – Don’t Rush to Remove from Freezer: Only remove the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups from the freezer right when you are ready to dip them into the batter and immediately place them into the hot oil. The colder they are, the better they will hold their shape during frying.
• Maintain Optimal Oil Temperature: Use a kitchen thermometer (candy or deep-fry thermometer) to monitor your oil temperature. Aim for a consistent temperature between 350°F and 375°F (175°C to 190°C). If the oil is too cool, your treats will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the batter will burn before the inside has a chance to warm up and melt. Adjust your heat source as needed during frying.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Fry only a few Reese’s Cups at a time, depending on the size of your pot. Overcrowding will drastically drop the oil temperature, leading to greasy, less crispy results. Allow enough space for each piece to fry evenly and maintain consistent oil heat.
• Evenly Cook Both Sides: Ensure your Deep Fried Reese’s Cups are flipped gently halfway through the cooking process. This ensures both sides of the batter become beautifully golden brown and crispy, providing an even texture throughout.
• Drain Excess Oil Immediately: As soon as the fried Reese’s Cups are removed from the oil, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack set over paper towels. This will help absorb any residual oil, resulting in a cleaner, crisper, and less greasy finished product.
• Experiment with Batter Consistency: If your batter seems too thin (runs off the Reese’s too quickly) or too thick (creates a heavy, doughy coating), adjust it. Add a tiny bit more pancake mix for thickness or a splash of milk for thinness until it coats the candy evenly without being excessive.
• Safety First: Always exercise caution when deep frying. Use a sturdy pot, keep children and pets away from the hot oil, and have a fire extinguisher or baking soda (not water!) handy in case of a grease fire.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use different types of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups?

Yes, you can experiment! While full-size original Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are recommended for the best results due to their size and classic flavor, you could try the white chocolate versions or even Reese’s Fast Break bars. Just ensure they are thoroughly frozen, especially if they are larger or have different fillings, to prevent them from melting too quickly.

What if I don’t have a deep fryer?

No problem! This recipe is perfectly suited for frying in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven on your stovetop. Just make sure it has high sides to prevent oil splatters and allows for at least 3 inches of oil depth. A reliable kitchen thermometer is crucial for monitoring the oil temperature.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

You can mix the dry ingredients of the pancake batter ahead of time. However, it’s best to add the wet ingredients (egg, milk, oil) and whisk the batter together right before you plan to fry. This ensures the leavening agents in the pancake mix are most active, leading to a lighter, crispier coating.

How do I know the oil is hot enough without a thermometer?

While a thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy, if you don’t have one, you can test the oil by dropping a small pinch of batter into it. If the batter immediately sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is likely hot enough (around 350-375°F). If it sinks and barely bubbles, it’s too cold. If it burns instantly, it’s too hot.

My deep-fried Reese’s are soggy. What went wrong?

Sogginess is usually due to the oil not being hot enough. When the oil is too cool, the batter absorbs more oil instead of cooking quickly and crisping up. Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (350-375°F) before adding the Reese’s, and avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lower the oil temperature.

Is it safe to deep-fry candy with chocolate?

Yes, it’s safe as long as the candy is frozen solid and the oil temperature is carefully monitored. The frozen state of the Reese’s cup provides a buffer, allowing the batter to cook before the chocolate completely liquefies and potentially mixes with the oil. Always use proper deep-frying safety precautions.

More Deep Fried Desserts to Satisfy Your Cravings

If you’ve fallen in love with the crispy, gooey deliciousness of deep-fried Reese’s, then you’re sure to enjoy these other popular carnival-inspired treats:

• Deep Fried Oreos
• Deep Fried S’mores Recipe
• Deep Fried Snickers Recipe
• Deep Fried Marshmallows
• Deep Fried Pop Tarts
• Deep Fried Nutella

Give this easy and incredibly satisfying recipe for Deep Fried Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups a try today! We’d love to hear about your experience – please leave a comment once you’ve had a chance to indulge.