Top 10 Must-Try Foods at the Texas State Fair

There’s no doubt that one of the biggest attractions at the State Fair of Texas is the food. Moreover, a lot of it is ingenious fried food, including fried lattes, fried Oreos, and fried ice cream. Essentially, if it can be dropped in batter and deep-fried, you will find it at the State Fair of Texas, and it will likely be delicious.

Concessionaires spend all year thinking up these outlandish-sounding creations, and fairgoers show their appreciation by chowing down with gusto. You can indulge in high-fat, high-carb treats, or you might prefer the many gluten-free options available at this annual celebration of all things Texas.

Whatever you choose, bring a hearty appetite (and maybe some antacid) to enjoy some of the best treats at any state fair. These are our picks for the top culinary highlights.

01. Fletcher’s Corny Dog

The crunchy, golden brown nuggets of goodness known as Fletcher’s Original Corny Dogs are a Dallas original and a beloved State Fair tradition, preferably enjoyed with a dollop of yellow mustard. Their Dallas inventors, Carl and Neil Fletcher, claimed the legendary deep-fried, corn-battered hot dog on a stick as America’s first corn dog, selling about half a million of them at the State Fair of Texas since 1942.

02. Fernie’s Funnel Cakes

Fernie’s Funnel Cakes have been a State Fair tradition since the 1980s. These treats, made of twisty batter that’s deep-fried, dusted with powdered sugar, and often topped with fruit, have long been a favorite of fairgoers. Although funnel cakes are now available as grocery store mixes, they’re not nearly as good as the handmade originals, which remain the winners, hands down.

03. Fried Lemonade

Although the unusual name may have led fried lemonade to miss out on a Big Tex Choice Award, this treat is undeniably one of the best-tasting options at the State Fair. Renamed Fried Lemon Pound Cake, it comprises mounds of lemon pound cake fried up like a doughnut. A glaze at the bottom of the cup would enhance the flavor even more.

04. Fried Chocolate

This delightful treat didn’t earn a top spot in the Choice Award winners division, possibly due to the scrumptious brownie and gooey center being overlooked. It offers a rich chocolate indulgence and is the perfect dessert to share with someone special—one bite for you, one for me.

05. Fried Latte

This incredibly creative dish is not a frozen drink, but rather a wonderfully fried pastry topped with cappuccino ice cream, caramel sauce, whipped cream, and instant coffee powder. Deep-fried latte was recognized as the “Most Creative” State Fair food creation in the Big Tex Choice Awards of 2007.

06. Deep Fried Oreos

If you can deep-fry an Oreo cookie, you can deep-fry just about anything, and deep-fried Oreos are a must-try classic treat. They offer the sweet satisfaction you want at the fair, perfectly complementing a cold glass of milk—definitely something you do not want to miss.

07. Texas Fried Frito Pie

The Texas Fried Frito Pie has received rave reviews from many fair visitors who love the combination of chili and sharp cheddar encased in corn chips, battered and deep-fried. Be prepared to take some antacid after enjoying this delicious treat!

08. Smoked Turkey Legs

Many people attend the Texas State Fair specifically for the delightfully smoked turkey legs, wrapped at the base for convenient handling. It’s a fun sight to see fairgoers casually strolling with a gigantic turkey leg in one hand—it adds a humorous touch to the festivities. This option may also be one of the healthier choices available at the concession stands.

09. Cotton Candy

There’s something truly special about cotton candy at a fair; it is available almost everywhere and evokes fond childhood memories. The airy pastel-colored spun sugar on a cone is a delightful treat that continues to enchant adults and children alike.

10. Fried Tamales

Texas is renowned for its Tex-Mex dishes. Although this savory delight may not qualify as traditional Tex-Mex, it stands out as pure indulgence. The preparation involves taking tamale filling, breading it, and frying it to perfection—there’s nothing wrong with that picture!