Skip to content

Top Navigation

Better Homes & Gardens
Better Homes & Gardens
  • Gardening
  • Home Improvement Ideas
  • Cleaning and Organizing
  • Recipes and Cooking
  • Decorating
  • Holidays
  • Rooms
  • Shopping

Profile Menu

Join Now

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Subscribe
Pin

Explore Better Homes & Gardens

Better Homes & Gardens
Better Homes & Gardens
  • Explore

    Explore

    • The Only Weed Identification Guide You'll Ever Need: 33 Common Weedy Plants to Watch For

      The Only Weed Identification Guide You'll Ever Need: 33 Common Weedy Plants to Watch For

      Don't let these pesky plants crash your garden party! The first step is to know your enemy. Then you'll know the best way to deal with your weed problem. Read More
    • 6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      A professional organizer offers advice on how to tidy up your home without feeling overwhelmed. Read More
    • 5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      Anti-inflammatory smoothies do exist! Instead of blending in boatloads of sugar and artificial ingredients, try these smoothies for inflammation that are stoked with ingredients that may help lower your risk for chronic diseases including cancer, heart disease, depression, and more. Read More
  • Gardening

    Gardening

    See All Gardening
    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    Upcycle old newspapers, junk mail, and other waste paper to make these easy, eco-friendly containers you can use to sprout new plants for your garden.
    • Flowers
    • Houseplants
    • Plant Encyclopedia
    • Garden Pests
    • Trees, Shrubs & Vines
    • Caring for Your Yard
    • Edible Gardening
    • Garden Design
    • Gardening By Region
    • Landscaping
  • Home Improvement Ideas

    Home Improvement Ideas

    See All Home Improvement Ideas
    What Style Is Your House? The 10 Most Popular American House Styles

    What Style Is Your House? The 10 Most Popular American House Styles

    In a world full of so many different house styles, it can be a little challenging just to narrow down your own home's architectural style, let alone edit the list down to your favorite style or understand the distinctions characteristic to each house style. We'll show you the 10 most popular American house styles, including Cape Cod, French Country, Colonial, Victorian, Tudor, Craftsman, Cottage, Mediterranean, ranch-style, and Contemporary.
    • Home Exteriors
    • DIY Home Electrical Tips & Guides
    • Outdoor Structures
    • Home Remodeling
    • Plumbing Installations & Repairs
    • Remodeling Advice & Planning
    • Flooring
    • Lighting
    • Decks
    • Porches
  • Cleaning and Organizing

    Cleaning and Organizing

    See All Cleaning and Organizing
    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    Cleaning your home doesn't have to be a daunting, time-consuming chore. The key to managing household duties quickly and efficiently is to design an easy-to-follow routine that includes all the most important tasks. Follow these step-by-step instructions for creating a customized whole-home cleaning schedule.
    • House Cleaning
    • Laundry & Linens
    • Cleaning Tips
    • Closet Organization
    • Organization Tips
    • Kitchen Storage Organization
  • Recipes and Cooking

    Recipes and Cooking

    See All Recipes and Cooking
    21 Baking Essentials Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 Nice-to-Haves)

    21 Baking Essentials Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 Nice-to-Haves)

    Whether you're a beginning baker just starting out or a master chef looking to declutter, we'll help you set up a beginner's baking essentials kit with 21 tools. For anyone who already owns these handy baking tools, this list may finally provide the motivation you need to get rid of that soufflé dish you never use. Building your baking equipment inventory starts here.
    • How to Cook
    • Chicken Recipes
    • Desserts & Baking
    • Fish Recipes
    • Beef Recipes
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Breakfast and Brunch Recipes
    • Lunch
    • Dinner Recipes & Meal Ideas
    • Ethnic Food
  • Decorating

    Decorating

    See All Decorating
    7 Interior Design Trends Everyone Will Be Trying in 2021, According to Experts

    7 Interior Design Trends Everyone Will Be Trying in 2021, According to Experts

    Designers weigh in on the most popular decorating styles, colors, and materials you can look forward to in the coming year.
    • Choosing Color
    • Expert Decorating Advice
    • Fireplace Design Ideas
    • Do It Yourself Magazine
    • Window Treatments
    • Styles & Decor
    • Interior Painting
    • Home Makeovers
    • Small-Space Decorating
    • Traditional Home
  • Holidays

    Holidays

    See All Holidays
    International Women's Day: The Powerful Story Behind This 111-Year-Old Tradition

    International Women's Day: The Powerful Story Behind This 111-Year-Old Tradition

    What began as a small movement, has grown into a global holiday dedicated to celebrating the strong women in our communities.
    • Valentine's Day
    • Mother's Day
    • Easter
    • Father's Day
    • Fourth of July/Memorial Day
    • Halloween
    • Thanksgiving
    • Christmas
    • New Year's
    • Juneteenth
    • Hanukkah
  • Rooms

    Rooms

    See All Rooms
    Living Room Furniture Layout Ideas

    Living Room Furniture Layout Ideas

    Get tips for arranging living room furniture in a way that creates a comfortable and welcoming environment and makes the most of your space.
    • Bedroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Bathroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Kitchen Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Living Room Decorating and Design
    • Dining Room
    • Home Office
    • Kid's Rooms
    • Baby Nursery
  • Shopping

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
Join Now

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. BHG.com
  2. Recipes and Cooking
  3. Food Trends
  4. Blue Ribbon-Worthy State Fair Foods You Can Make at Home

Blue Ribbon-Worthy State Fair Foods You Can Make at Home

Headshot of Food Editor, Sheena Chihak, RD
By Sheena Chihak, RD Updated August 13, 2020
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Skip gallery slides
Save Pin FB
Cinnamon Churros
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
Can't make it to the state fair this year? No sweat. Indulge in the same state fair favorites, including ice cream sundaes, mini donuts, and deep-fried foods like pork tenderloins and corn dogs, right in the comfort (and coolness!) of your own kitchen.
Start Slideshow

1 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Mix-and-Match Baked Chicken Fingers and Dipping Sauces

Mix-and-Match Baked Chicken Fingers and Dipping Sauces
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Fair foods often involve mash-ups of epic proportions, so why not try breading chicken with crushed tortilla chips and serving with a Cooled-Down Mexican Salsa dipping sauce. (Unlike the fair, these are baked rather than fried. That means we can eat more, right?)

1 of 21

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

DIY Pineapple Whip

DIY Pineapple Whip
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

In the list of favorite state fair foods (or even county fair foods), nothing cools us off faster while walking the fairgrounds than a frosty pineapple whip. If you can't get to the fair this year, or want one when it's not fair time, this DIY take of the classic Dole whip is only 5 ingredients and a couple minutes of blending away from being ready to enjoy.

Buy It: 5-Speed Diamond Blender ($170, KitchenAid)

2 of 21

3 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Carnival Cookie Fries

Carnival Cookie Fries
Credit: Matthew Clark
View Recipe

Don't miss out on enjoying fair cookies all year long. Strawberry jam and mango puree make for spot-on dessert stand-ins for ketchup and mustard. Serve bowls of these dipping sauces with the colorful sprinkle cookie fries for a look-alike snack that will make everyone smile.

3 of 21

Advertisement

4 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Air-Fryer Pickle Chips

Air-Fryer Pickle Chips
Credit: Matthew Clark
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Make this classic state fair food a little bit healthier at home by frying up pickle slices in your air fryer. Since the trendy appliance cooks food using high heat and circulating air instead of oil, you can indulge in these crispy, crunchy pickle chips guilt-free. Serve with a spicy sriracha dipping sauce, and you'll love these pickle chips even more than the ones you find at the fair.

Buy It: Power XL Vortex Air Fryer ($130, Bed Bath & Beyond)

4 of 21

5 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Donut Hole Pops

Donut Hole Pops
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

When you’re going for the state fair food vibe, the more desserts on a stick, the better. This dessert almost couldn’t be easier: Add lollipop sticks to donut holes (any flavor will do!), dunk in melted candy coating, and decorate as desired.

5 of 21

6 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Battered Bacon

Battered Bacon
Credit: Karla Conrad
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Fried. Bacon. On a stick. For the ultimate fair experience, fry the Battered Bacon on skewers so you can snack on the go. Fried bacon definitely falls into the category of unique things to toss in the fryer, so when you also turn it into a food on a stick, this recipe becomes everything Americans love about the state fair in one crunchy dish.

6 of 21

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Classic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

Classic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

It's just not the state fair until you find a pork tenderloin sandwich that's almost as big as your face. The super oversize sandwiches don't have to be limited to just the fairgrounds though. When you make this recipe at home, pound the pork tenderloin nice and thin for the maximum ratio of crunchy fried exterior to savory, meaty tenderloin and you'll feel like you're standing right on the main drag of the fair.

7 of 21

8 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Cinnamon Churros

Cinnamon Churros
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Right up there with corn dogs and funnel cakes, it's just not a fair without churros. The ingredients needed for this well-loved treat are quite simple; odds are you've got everything you need in your pantry. To get the classic churro shape, pipe the dough using a pastry bag with a large star dip.

Buy It: Wilton Pasty Bags and Tips Set ($8, Target)

8 of 21

9 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Bacon Cheeseburgers with Kentucky Bourbon Sauce

Bacon Cheeseburgers with Kentucky Bourbon Sauce
Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Bye-bye, basic burgers. These spiked bourbon, bacon, and beef burgers are towering with salty and savory elements that will keep you coming back for bite after drippy bite. These burgers are worthy of a blue ribbon at the fair!

9 of 21

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Honey-Pepper Bacon Pops

Honey-Pepper Bacon Pops
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

So simple yet so hard to resist. Of course we've got a recipe for bacon on a stick to bring a taste of the fair home. The secret to the big flavor is a honey-soy sauce brushed on partway through the baking time.

Buy It: Wooden Skewers ($2, Target)

10 of 21

11 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Electric Lemonade

Electric Lemonade
Credit: Karla Conrad
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Fresh-squeezed lemonade stands are clutch for cooling off at the fair...and washing down deep-fried foods and state fair desserts. Our DIY drink is an upgrade on the classic with mint, sparkling water, and vodka (for the over-21 crowd) in the mix.

11 of 21

12 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Mini Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts

Mini Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts
Credit: Adam Albright
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Itty-bitty cinnamon-sugar donuts, warm from the fryer, attract long lines of hungry fairgoers for good reason. Who can resist the moist cake and the sweet coating? To make them simply at home, try our low-fuss baked method. Craving even more sweetness? Dunk in, or drizzle with, a powdered sugar glaze!

12 of 21

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Philly Cheesesteak on a Stick

Philly Cheese Steak on a Stick
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Nope, this is not your usual meat and veggie kabob idea. This is a Philly cheesesteak deconstructed and rebuilt on a stick to transform it into fair food. Hoagie bread cubes and cheese sauce are what give the must-have cheesesteak flavors.

13 of 21

14 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Italian-Style Corn Dogs

Italian-Style Corn Dogs
Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Corn dogs are definitely one of the easiest fair foods to re-create at home, even when you give them a little twist. In place of standard hot dogs, this spicy on-a-stick recipe starts with Italian sausage. Dunk in marinara sauce and enjoy alongside a tall glass of lemonade.

14 of 21

15 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Cherry Hand Pies

Cherry Hand Pies
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

State fair food is known for being easy to eat on the go—just like these cherry hand pies! While they might not be quite the same as a slice on a stick, these handheld cherry pies can't help but remind us of all of the sweet finger foods we love at the fair. Whenever you miss walking down the midway, just bake up a batch of these cherry pie treats to make you think of summer.

15 of 21

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

16 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Curly Fries

Curly Fries
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

With a spiralizer, homemade curly fries are a breeze to fry up in your own kitchen. The secret to the crispiest and most crave-able fries ever? Soaking the spiralized spuds in water overnight, then giving them a ride in the salad spinner to remove as much water as possible.

16 of 21

17 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Blondie Sticks

Blondie Stix
Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Cookies served on a stick? Yes, please! Add a lollipop stick, wooden skewer, ice pop stick, or even a straw to long and thin blondie cookies for a showy sweet that’s way easy to decorate (since you have a handle!). To give them a little extra sweetness and flair, dip them in melted chocolate or frosting and add sprinkles.

17 of 21

18 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Root Beer Barbecue Sauce

Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Root Beer Barbecue Sauce
Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Warning: You're going to want to roll up your sleeves before you take a bite of this sweet and spicy pulled pork sandwich. For a hands-off roast that's fall-apart tender, simmer it in your slow cooker in a sauce of root beer and chili sauce.

Buy It: Crock-Pot 4-Quart Slow Cooker ($35, Bed Bath & Beyond)

18 of 21

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

19 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Peach Melba Pie Pops

Peach Melba Pie Pops
Credit: Jason Donnelly
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Few things are more American and summery than a slice of peach pie, especially when you serve it up as a fair-inspired food on a stick. This single-serving recipe is cute and so easy to snack on while holding a milkshake in your other hand.

19 of 21

20 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Fried Pickles

Fried Pickles
Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Whether you like your fair pickles fried whole or in slices, this recipe lets you make them just the way you like. Coat pickles in buttermilk and a classic cornmeal batter, then deep-fry for a salty, crunchy swap for french fries. Try making a creamy dipping sauce for dunking this deep-fried food to make each bite extra tasty.

20 of 21

21 of 21

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Banana Split Cupcakes

Banana Split Cupcakes
Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Banana cupcakes are good. But banana cupcakes topped with ice cream, whipped cream, hot fudge, and a cherry? Definitely worthy of a first place ribbon. Like any good state fair food, this deliciously sweet recipe is a mash-up of decadent cupcakes and a luscious banana split sundae.

21 of 21

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Sheena Chihak, RD

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 21 Mix-and-Match Baked Chicken Fingers and Dipping Sauces
    2 of 21 DIY Pineapple Whip
    3 of 21 Carnival Cookie Fries
    4 of 21 Air-Fryer Pickle Chips
    5 of 21 Donut Hole Pops
    6 of 21 Battered Bacon
    7 of 21 Classic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
    8 of 21 Cinnamon Churros
    9 of 21 Bacon Cheeseburgers with Kentucky Bourbon Sauce
    10 of 21 Honey-Pepper Bacon Pops
    11 of 21 Electric Lemonade
    12 of 21 Mini Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts
    13 of 21 Philly Cheesesteak on a Stick
    14 of 21 Italian-Style Corn Dogs
    15 of 21 Cherry Hand Pies
    16 of 21 Curly Fries
    17 of 21 Blondie Sticks
    18 of 21 Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Root Beer Barbecue Sauce
    19 of 21 Peach Melba Pie Pops
    20 of 21 Fried Pickles
    21 of 21 Banana Split Cupcakes

    Share & More

    Tweet Email Send Text Message
    • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Logo Products at Walmart
    • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Real Estate Real Estate Services
    Better Homes & Gardens

    Magazines & More

    Learn More

    • About Us
    • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
    • Books from Better Homes & Gardens
    • Help
    • Advertise
    • Content Licensing
    • Accolades this link opens in a new tab

    Connect

    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    Sign Up
    MeredithBH&G is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2022 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright Better Homes & Gardens. All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.bhg.com

    Sign in

    View image

    Blue Ribbon-Worthy State Fair Foods You Can Make at Home
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.