Trader Joe’s Just Released Funnel Cake Fries, and I Tried Them 4 Different Ways

Is there anything better than browsing the aisles at Trader Joe’s and exploring the endless array of new products the chain rolls out almost constantly? There’s always something fun to discover, and this week, I struck gold when I tried Trader Joe’s Carnival Fun Cake Fries for the first time. When you’re there stocking up on TJ’s back-to-school snacks, treat yourself and the family to this nostalgic carnival dessert.

What are the new Trader Joe’s Carnival Fun Cake Fries?

These new limited-edition frozen foods are Trader Joe’s answer to childhood favorite summer foods. Meant to mimic the taste and texture of the carnival classic funnel cake, these frozen fries come in 12-ounce bags that cost $4.99 each. The Trader Joe’s freezer section is full of fun finds, and this one is no different. Picture a funnel cake that is unwound and cut into fry-shaped pieces. With a quick bake in the oven, your kitchen smells heavenly and you’re ready to enjoy funnel cake magic at home!

How to Prepare the Trader Joe’s Carnival Fun Cake Fries

These Trader Joe’s Carnival Fun Cake Fries heat up in a matter of minutes, which gives you plenty of time to whip up fun toppings to take them to the next level. From simple to a bit more complex, these toppings all nod to carnival treats of summers past. Add these to a state fair-inspired dinner or set up a dessert station for the family to add any toppings they like.

Cinnamon and Sugar

Mix equal parts ground cinnamon and granulated sugar together to make an all-purpose cinnamon sugar coating. Sprinkle the mix over the Carnival Fun Cake Fries as soon as you take them out of the oven, then transfer to a serving plate. The warm fries and warming cinnamon sugar mix almost tastes like a churro.

Powdered Sugar

There’s nothing more nostalgic than a funnel cake from a stand at the summer carnival dusted with powdered sugar. Instead of sprinkling this topping on right when the Fun Cake Fries come out of the oven, let them cool just slightly (about one minute) before sprinkling with powdered sugar. That way, the sugar won’t melt before you serve them.

Banana Split

If you’re looking to get a bit more outlandish with your Fun Cake Fries, give them a banana split makeover. Add sliced banana, whipped cream, roasted peanuts and, of course, a cherry on top. This one was my favorite combination that I tried. To make it even more like a banana split, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Chocolate Oreo

Chocolate lovers, this one will be the way to your heart. First, crush some Oreos (or Joe-Joes!) in a large resealable plastic bag. Once the Fun Cake Fries have cooled slightly, drizzle them with chocolate syrup, add whipped cream, and then sprinkle with the crushed cookies. Double chocolate and double the fun!