Foods That Are Even Better Fried

It’s no secret that frying food in hot oil isn’t exactly a health food habit—your cholesterol probably wouldn’t thank you if everything you ate came out of a fryer. Still, there’s something undeniably delicious about this cooking method. When used occasionally, fried dishes become a special indulgence that’s hard to match.

This ancient technique dates back to at least 5th-century B.C. Egypt and has evolved into countless global variations. From doughnuts and fritters to fried chicken and Japanese tempura, deep frying creates a signature contrast: a crisp, golden exterior with a rich, flavorful interior. It can be a bit greasy, but as Oscar Wilde famously implied, balance matters—including balance in moderation.

If you’re in the mood for something unexpected and indulgent, here are some creative fried foods worth trying for a special treat.

Ice Cream

Ice cream is already a beloved dessert, but frying it takes things to a whole new level. Surprisingly, there are two main styles: Chinese and Mexican. The difference lies in the coating.

Chinese-style fried ice cream is typically wrapped in a light batter similar to tempura, while the Mexican version uses crushed cereal or cookie crumbs for a thicker, sweeter crust. Both versions create an exciting contrast between a warm, crunchy shell and a cold, creamy center.

Some recipes, like Michael Symon’s version, pair fried ice cream with spiced elements and even crispy tortillas, adding layers of texture and flavor for a truly decadent dessert experience.

Ravioli

Ravioli is already a comforting pasta dish filled with rich, savory ingredients. But when it’s fried, it becomes something even more irresistible. In places like St. Louis, toasted ravioli is a local favorite.

In this version, cheese-filled ravioli are coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and deep-fried until crisp. The result is a crunchy exterior that gives way to a soft, flavorful center, often served with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Recipes like Giada de Laurentiis’ version keep it simple—dip, bread, fry, and serve—proving that sometimes the best dishes don’t need complexity.

Avocado

Avocado is naturally creamy, but frying it transforms its texture in a surprising way. When coated and fried, the outside becomes crispy while the inside becomes even richer and smoother.

Fried avocado works well as a snack, appetizer, or taco filling. It can also be paired with dips or sauces for added flavor. In vegetarian tacos, crispy avocado slices often replace meat while still providing a satisfying bite.

Some recipes combine fried avocado with beans, vegetables, and tangy sauces, creating a balanced and flavorful dish.

Pizza

Fried pizza may sound unusual, but it has strong roots in Italian and New York-inspired cuisine. Known in some forms as montanara, the dough is briefly fried before being topped and baked.

This method gives the crust a light crispiness while maintaining a soft interior. Once topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and herbs, the pizza is finished under a broiler for added flavor and texture.

Home versions of fried pizza follow a similar process, resulting in a unique twist on a classic favorite.

Chocolate Candy Bars

Frying chocolate bars might feel indulgent—and it is—but it’s also a carnival-style treat that many people love. Small candy bars are coated in batter and deep-fried until golden.

The result is a warm, crispy shell surrounding melted chocolate. It’s rich, sweet, and often compared to a chocolate-filled fritter. This is a popular way to repurpose leftover Halloween candy into something even more decadent.

Pickles

Fried pickles are a classic snack, especially in the southern United States. First popularized in Arkansas in the 1960s, they combine tangy pickle flavor with a crunchy fried coating.

Typically made with cornmeal-based batter, fried pickles deliver a balance of sour, salty, and crispy textures. They are often served with dipping sauces like ranch dressing.

Oreo Cookies

Deep-fried Oreos are a staple of fairs and carnivals. These chocolate sandwich cookies become even more indulgent when dipped in batter and fried.

The exterior becomes fluffy and golden, while the inside turns warm and creamy. The result is a soft, cake-like dessert with melted cookie filling.

Many simple recipes use pancake batter to recreate this fairground favorite at home.

Twinkies

Twinkies, the iconic cream-filled snack cakes, also get a dramatic upgrade when fried. Once coated and cooked, they become warm, golden treats with a soft interior.

Some versions cut them into bite-sized pieces before frying, making them easier to share. Finished with powdered sugar, they resemble funnel cake–style desserts.

Banana

Fried bananas are a simple way to enhance the fruit’s natural sweetness. Heat caramelizes the sugars, creating a soft, rich texture.

Often cooked with cinnamon and sugar, they can be served as a snack or used as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or toast.

Strawberries

Even strawberries can be fried, resulting in a surprising dessert twist. When dipped in batter and cooked, they become warm and juicy with a crispy coating.

Some recipes even combine them with chocolate for an extra indulgent version of chocolate-covered strawberries—this time served warm and crunchy.

Nutella

Nutella becomes even more decadent when fried. In some recipes, it is mixed into a batter or cake-like base, shaped into balls, and deep-fried.

The result is a molten chocolate-hazelnut center surrounded by a crisp outer layer. These bite-sized desserts are rich, sweet, and intensely indulgent.

Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is already a comfort food classic, but frying it turns it into a portable snack. The pasta is formed into balls or bites, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried until crispy.

Inside, the cheese remains gooey and creamy, creating a contrast in textures. Often served with extra cheese sauce, it’s a favorite for parties and gatherings.

A Final Note

Fried foods are best enjoyed occasionally rather than regularly, but there’s no denying their appeal. When treated as a special indulgence, they deliver comfort, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite.