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Upgrade your peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with this fun and crispy version called Fried Uncrustables. This recipe takes your favorite frozen Uncrustables and turns them into a golden, crunchy treat that is perfect for quick meals, snacks, or even lunchbox surprises. The crispy outside paired with the gooey peanut butter and jelly inside makes this an irresistible twist that the whole family will love.
I first made these during a weekend snack time and was amazed at how everyone in my family instantly fell for the crispy outside and soft, sweet inside. Now they request it regularly as a special treat.
Ingredients
- Uncrustables: from the freezer section any flavor works best when slightly thawed to prevent oil splatter
- Pancake mix: such as Bisquick provides a light and crispy batter coating
- Eggs: at room temperature help bind the batter smoothly without lumps
- Milk: you can use 2% or whatever you have on hand to thin the batter perfectly
- Cooking oil: like canola or vegetable oil for deep frying keeps the flavor neutral and fries evenly
- Powdered sugar: for dusting adds a touch of sweetness and an attractive finish
- Optional toppings: chocolate drizzle, fresh berries, cinnamon sugar and more for extra flavor and presentation flair
Instructions
- Spoon Together the Batter:
- Combine pancake mix, eggs, milk, and one and a half tablespoons of oil in a large mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly until well combined. Small lumps in the batter are perfectly okay and will not affect the frying.
- Heat the Oil:
- Pour the remaining oil into a deep skillet or dutch oven and heat it over medium heat until it reaches about 375 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Check if the oil is ready by dropping a few drops of water into it. If the droplets dance and boil, the oil is hot enough.
- Coat the Uncrustables:
- Use a fork or skewer to hold each slightly thawed Uncrustable. Fully submerge it in the batter, making sure both sides are completely coated with the pancake mixture.
- Fry Until Golden:
- Carefully lower the coated sandwich into the hot oil. Fry for about 2 minutes on each side or until the exterior turns a deep golden brown color. Keep an eye on the oil temperature to maintain even frying.
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove the fried sandwich with tongs and place it on paper towels to soak up any excess oil. Once slightly cooled, dust with powdered sugar and add any preferred toppings before serving.
My favorite ingredient is the Uncrustables themselves because they keep this recipe no-fuss and consistent every time. A memorable moment is when my kids surprised me by making these for me early one weekend, proudly showing off their fried creations as a breakfast treat.
Storage Tips
These fried sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh for their crispiness but can be stored in an airtight container for up to one day. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to refresh the crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use homemade peanut butter and jelly sandwiches sealed with a sandwich cutter instead of store-bought Uncrustables. Swap pancake mix for a homemade batter made from flour, baking powder, and salt, but keep the consistency similar to commercial mixes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with pancake syrup for a breakfast vibe or alongside fresh fruit for balance. Dipping options like honey, melted peanut butter, or hazelnut spread add extra richness and variety.
These fried Uncrustables are a fast, fun twist on a childhood favorite. Enjoy them fresh for the best contrast of crispy exterior and gooey interior.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What brand of bread is best for this dish?
Frozen Uncrustables from the grocery freezer section work best due to their sealed edges and jelly filling, but homemade sealed sandwiches with soft bread also work well.
- → Can I use other types of jelly or nut butter?
Yes, you can customize with any jelly flavor or substitute peanut butter with crunchy or creamy nut butters to suit your taste.
- → What's the best oil for frying?
Neutral oils with high smoke points like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil are ideal for frying to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
- → Is there a way to make them less oily?
Air frying the coated sandwiches provides a crisp texture with less oil, making them a lighter option while maintaining taste.
- → What toppings pair well with fried Uncrustables?
Powdered sugar, fresh berries, cinnamon sugar, melted chocolate, or drizzled honey add flavor and visual appeal to the sandwiches.
- → How to prevent oil splatter during frying?
Allow sandwiches to thaw slightly before frying and ensure the oil temperature is properly heated to minimize splattering.