Posted by Tastefully Simple on August 22, 2025
Get ready to bring the fun of the fair to your kitchen – with delicious, over-the-top treats the whole family will love.
There’s just something magical about fair food. Whether it’s the scent of fried dough in the air or the thrill of eating dinner on a stick, carnival-inspired eats bring out the kid in everyone. And the best part? You don’t need a ticket to enjoy these whimsical bites. Grab your skewers and your sweet tooth – here are our favorite fair-style foods to make at home!
Cookie Dough on a Stick
Safe-to-eat cookie dough is already a dream, but roll it into balls, dip it in white or milk chocolate, and serve it on a stick? Now it’s a party. Add sprinkles, baking chips, or crushed pretzels for extra flair. Pro tip: chill them first so they don’t slide off!
Check out this fun edible dough mix, Birthday Cake Cookie Dough Mix. Grab a spoon and eat it right from the mixing bowl or bake them into tasty cookies.
Pizza on a Stick
Who says pizza has to be round? Thread bite-sized dough, pepperoni, cheese, and veggies onto skewers, then bake until golden. Serve with warm Mama Mia Marinara Sauce for dipping. It’s pizza night – carnival style.
Try these Pizza Pinwheels on a Stick, too!
Chicken & Waffle Skewers
Mini waffles + crispy chicken tenders = the ultimate sweet-savory combo. Drizzle with maple syrup or spicy honey, and you’ve got brunch-on-a-stick that would win any midway prize.
Make your mini waffles with Brown Sugar Caramel Pound Cake Mix. The brown sugar flavor in this not-too-sweet mix pairs perfectly with maple syrup.
Fruit Kabobs with Snickerdoodle Dip
For a lighter twist, thread fresh strawberries, melon, and grapes onto sticks and serve with a whipped cream and Sweet Snickerdoodle Dip. It’s a refreshing way to add a pop of color (and fun!) to your snack table.
Mini Corn Dogs
No fair is complete without corn dogs. Make your own Mini Corn Dogs at home with cocktail franks or little smoked sausages and Bountiful Beer Bread® batter – just skewer, fry, and serve with a tasty dipping sauce or ketchup. Or try baking them in a mini muffin tin for an easier, kid-friendly version.
Mini Doughnut Bites
Mini donuts on skewers are a breeze to make and fun to decorate with the Donut Bites Gift Set. Microwave your way to fresh donuts in only 2 minutes! Dip donuts in icing, roll in crushed cereal or sprinkles, and skewer. Set them in a cup like a festive bouquet or place on a tray for easy grab and go. Great for parties or weekend brunches!
Mac & Cheese Bites
Scoop chilled mac and cheese into balls, roll in breadcrumbs, and bake or fry until golden. Serve with dipping sauces like Classic Ranch or Smoky Bacon BBQ Sauce. They’re cheesy, crispy, and totally crave-worthy.
Try these extra indulgent mac & cheese variations: Queso Mac & Cheese or Artichoke & Spinach Mac & Cheese.
Tips for a Successful DIY Fair Food Night:
- Use wooden skewers or lollipop sticks for easy handling of your foods on a stick.
- Create a “build-your-own” food station for kids to customize.
- Don’t forget the fun drinks – serve lemonade or caramel apple mocktails made with Carmelicious™ Apple Drink Mix!
- Add string lights or music to turn your backyard into a mini midway.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for an exciting dinner idea, these carnival-inspired bites are guaranteed to bring smiles. Because everything tastes better on a stick, right?
Welcome to your own kitchen carnival – no lines, no tickets, just delicious fun!