12 Homemade Treats That Make You Feel Like You're at the Fair, Minus the Long Lines

If a food item can dipped in batter and deep-fried, you'll likely find it at the fair. Using pancake mix shortcuts the batter for this version, and if you want to make them a tad "healthier" (who are we trying to kid?) give this air-fryer option a try. Reviewers say you should eat them while they're still warm.

These easy-to-make chocolate-covered frozen bananas can be rolled in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or candy sprinkles. "I cut the bananas in approximately 2" pieces and inserted popsicle sticks. This made them more manageable for small children." —Budds

"I made these last night and they were amazing! Tasted just like you get at the fair. Definitely going to save and make these again!" —Jake Datema

Strolling down the midway, dipping into a bag of fresh, hot beignets. You know what I'm talking about. This top-rated recipe brings it all home for you. Need an air-fryer version? We can do that, too.

But, but, but...how do you fry ice cream??? Well, you scoop it into balls, freeze them, roll them in egg whites and crushed cornflakes, freeze them again, then deep-fry them very quickly. Serve them right away with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, because they won't stay frozen for long!

This French bistro staple has hit the state fair circuit, and we're not complaining. You can make the crêpes themselves ahead of time, freeze them, and fill the thawed crêpes when you're good and ready.

Think of these as long, slender Mexican-style deep-fried fritters coated with cinnamon sugar and eaten while they're still fresh and warm. Is there an air-fried version? Why yes, there is.

Reviewers give a solid 5-star rating to this homemade version of classic funnel cakes. Home cook April says to use a squeeze bottle to drizzle the batter into the oil to create a continuous ribbon of dough all intertwined and fried to golden brown perfection. Top with confectioners' sugar or go a little fancier with fruit, jam, whipped cream, chocolate...you get the picture.

"Great recipe, added 1 tsp cinnamon and 1 tsp apple pie spice to the dough, cut the apples into tiny pieces. Glazed with 1 cup icing sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon. Delicious, everyone from the grandkids to the adults LOVED them, this is a keeper recipe." —C.Lynn

They're apples so they're good for you, right? Sure. Let's stick with that story. These beauties are dipped in melted caramels, then dipped again in your choice of dark or white chocolate and embellished with crushed nuts, candy sprinkles, or whatever else you fancy.

Store-bought pie dough puts these hand-held mini apple pies on the fast track. You can substitute any sweet (or savory) filling you like in place of the chopped apples.

Popcorn usually falls into the savory snack column, but drizzle it with chocolate and caramel, and it transforms into a crunchable, munchable sweet n' salty treat. Microwave popcorn provides a convenient shortcut, or you can pop your own the old-fashioned way. You remember how to do that, don't you? Just be sure to remove all the unpopped kernels before proceeding with the recipe so no one bites down on an unwelcome surprise.