This beer batter recipe is the key to fried white fish that’s crispy and golden on the outside, but tender on the inside. You can also use it to perfectly fry veggies, shrimp, and so much more!
How to Make Beer Batter
You'll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the beer batter recipe below, but let's go over the basics:
What Is Beer Batter?
Beer batter is a batter for deep frying that is made by adding beer to a mixture of seasoned flour and (sometimes) eggs. The beer adds flavor, helps ensure a beautiful brown color, and the carbonation creates a crispy crust.
Beer Batter Ingredients
These are the simple ingredients you’ll need to make this basic beer batter recipe:
- Flour: This homemade beer batter starts with all-purpose flour.
- Cornstarch: Cornstarch ensures an extra crispy, light fry every time.
- Egg: An egg creates a more delicate crust and helps seal in moisture.
- Seasonings: Season the beer batter with garlic powder, black pepper, and seasoning salt.
- Beer: Of course, you’ll need beer! A light beer will give you a milder flavor, while a dark beer will have a richer taste. A higher carbonation level will result in an airier result.
How to Make Homemade Beer Batter
It couldn't be easier to make beer batter at home: Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl, then whisk in the beer. If it’s too thick, thin the batter with more beer. Find the full, step-by-step recipe below for detailed instructions.
Test Kitchen Tips
This top-rated user recipe was tested in our test kitchen. Here are some tips from recipe tester Amanda Stanfield:
- Use ice-cold beer and eggs to ensure the batter crisps up nicely when fried.
- Organize your frying setup before frying so you can work quickly when coating items in the batter and frying. Use a spider or slotted spoon to remove items from the oil versus tongs.
- Serve beer-battered items with french fries, fresh mixed green salad, or in a sandwich.
- Use different mixtures of spices to create various flavor profiles, like curry powder or blackening seasoning.
What to Do With Beer Batter
Use this beer batter recipe to make restaurant-worthy fried foods at home. Wondering what you can fry to crispy perfection? Here are a few ideas:
- White fish (such as cod or haddock)
- Shrimp
- Pickles
- Onion rings
- Chicken
- Cheese curds
- Vegetables (such as cauliflower or mushrooms)
Cook’s Note
Once you make your beer batter, the clock starts ticking. Many recipes say you can hold the batter in the fridge for up to 2 hours, but in my personal experience, I have never found that to be the case. You can hold it in the fridge while your oil heats up at the most.
Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise
This is a great and simple recipe,” raves Buddy Irwin. “It's easy to put together and forgiving in the ingredient amounts. If it gets too thick, add more beer. Too thin? Add more flour.
“I added a teaspoon of salt per cup of flour,” according to Mama Vicki. “Tripling this recipe coated a 5-pound box of fish. This will definitely be my go-to beer batter recipe.”
“Will definitely make it again,” says Jad121261. “Batter clung to zucchini perfectly. Can't wait to try it on other foods!”
Editorial contributions by Corey Williams
