Do Share Recipe

Deep Fried Cookie Dough Recipe | Irresistible Crispy and Gooey Treats

I have to admit, I’ve always been a sucker for cookie dough. The idea of taking that indulgent, gooey center and encasing it in a crispy, golden shell sounded like a dream come true. So, I finally tried making Deep Fried Cookie Dough Recipe at home, and let me tell you—it was pure magic.

Watching the batter puff up around the cookie dough while frying made my kitchen smell heavenly. Every bite was a perfect balance of crunch and melty sweetness that I couldn’t get enough of. If you love desserts that are both fun and decadent, you might also enjoy Jello Cookies Recipe for another playful sweet treat.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make the ultimate deep fried cookie dough. I’ve included some tips for why these ingredients work best.

For the cookie dough:

1 stick (113 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature – soft butter makes the dough creamy and easy to shape
1/2 cup (100 grams) packed brown sugar – adds moisture and a rich, caramel flavor
2 tablespoons granulated sugar – balances sweetness and helps with browning
1 egg, at room temperature – for binding the dough; use pasteurized if concerned about raw eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances flavor
1 1/4 cups (159 grams) all-purpose flour – provides structure to the cookie dough
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt – enhances sweetness and flavor
1 cup (170 grams) semisweet chocolate chips – classic gooey pockets of chocolate

For the frying batter:

1 1/4 cups (159 grams) all-purpose flour – forms a light, crispy coating
1 teaspoon baking powder – helps the batter puff while frying
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt – balances flavor
1/4 cup granulated sugar – adds slight sweetness to the coating
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons (255 grams) milk – keeps the batter smooth
2 teaspoon vegetable oil – for richness and smoother batter
1 quart oil, for frying – use a mild oil with a high smoke point
Melted chocolate, for drizzling – optional garnish for extra indulgence
Powdered sugar, for dusting – adds a finishing touch

Note: This recipe yields about 24 deep fried cookie dough balls. You can also try pairing these treats with Key Lime Pie Fruit Dip Recipe for a refreshing twist.

Variations

You can tweak this recipe to fit dietary needs or enhance flavor:

Use dairy-free butter and milk for a vegan version.
Swap chocolate chips for peanut butter chips or white chocolate for variety.
Replace sugar with a sugar substitute for a lower-sugar option.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the dough for an extra flavor kick.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot – for frying the dough safely
Thermometer – to maintain the correct oil temperature
Slotted spoon or mesh skimmer – for removing fried dough from oil
Mixing bowls – for preparing dough and batter
Small ice cream scoop or spoon – to portion cookie dough

How to Make Deep Fried Cookie Dough

Making deep fried cookie dough is easier than it looks! Follow these steps for perfect results.

Prepare the Cookie Dough

First, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla, then gradually mix in flour, salt, and chocolate chips. Chill the dough slightly so it’s easier to shape into balls.

Make the Batter

Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, milk, and vegetable oil until smooth. The batter will be thin but will crisp beautifully when fried. Keep it ready near the frying station.

Shape and Chill Dough Balls

Use a small scoop or spoon to form the cookie dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on a tray lined with parchment and freeze for about 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during frying.

Fry the Cookie Dough

Heat oil to 360°F (182°C). Carefully dip each dough ball in the batter, then lower it into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes, turning as needed. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Garnish and Serve

Drizzle with melted chocolate and dust with powdered sugar while warm. Serve immediately for the ultimate gooey experience.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

I learned a few tricks while making this recipe that made all the difference:

I always freeze the dough balls before frying to prevent them from falling apart.
I used a small chocolate dipping tool instead of my hands to avoid burns.
Keeping the oil at a steady temperature ensures the coating is crispy, not greasy.
Drizzle chocolate after frying for a glossy finish that looks professional.

How to Serve Deep Fried Cookie Dough

These treats are best served warm. I like placing them on a decorative platter and dusting with powdered sugar. Adding a small scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel can make them extra decadent. Individual mini bowls also make for a fun, sharable dessert presentation.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough guide per cookie dough ball:

Calories: 220-250
Protein: 2 grams
Carbohydrates: 28 grams
Fat: 12 grams

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigerate

Cookie dough balls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days before frying.

Freeze

Freeze un-fried dough balls for up to 1 month. Thaw slightly before frying for best results.

Reheat

Once fried, these are best eaten immediately. You can keep them warm in a 175°F oven for a short time, but they won’t stay crispy for long.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why I keep coming back to this deep fried cookie dough:

Super indulgent – a crunchy exterior and gooey center that satisfy any sweet tooth.
Fun and interactive – rolling, battering, and frying is a playful kitchen activity.
Customizable – change chocolate types, add flavorings, or make dietary swaps.
Perfect for gatherings – they’re bite-sized and make a show-stopping dessert.
Quick payoff – ready in about 35 minutes for an impressive treat.

Ben Carraoli