I’m all about crispy, golden fried treats, and the Presto FryDaddy deep fryer has become my kitchen’s MVP for delivering just that. This compact, no-fuss fryer is perfect for anyone craving restaurant-quality fries, chicken, or onion rings at home without breaking the bank or cluttering the counter.
Its simplicity, efficiency, and ability to churn out delicious results make it a must-have for small households or casual fry enthusiasts like me. Trust me, if you love fried food, this little gem will make your taste buds sing and your wallet smile.
My Experience With The Presto FryDaddy
The first time I unboxed my Presto FryDaddy, I was struck by how compact it was.
It’s about the size of a small slow cooker, which immediately made me happy because my kitchen counter is already a battlefield of appliances.
At just under four pounds, it felt sturdy yet light enough to tuck away in a cabinet when not in use.
I couldn’t wait to fire it up and see if it lived up to the hype.
I started with the classic: French fries. The FryDaddy uses just four cups of oil, which is a game-changer compared to the vats of oil I’d need for stovetop frying. I poured in some peanut oil, plugged it in, and waited.
The built-in thermostat took care of everything—no dials to fiddle with, no guesswork. In about ten minutes, the oil was hot, and I dropped in a handful of frozen fries. The sizzle was music to my ears.
A few minutes later, I scooped out perfectly golden, crispy fries using the included slotted spoon. They were crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and tasted like they came straight from a diner.
Next, I got adventurous with some homemade chicken tenders. The nonstick interior meant nothing stuck to the bottom, and the snap-on lid kept oil splatter to a minimum, which is a big deal when you’ve got kids running around.
Cleanup was a breeze—just a quick wipe with a damp cloth after it cooled. I’ve since used it for everything from onion rings to mozzarella sticks, and it consistently delivers. The FryDaddy’s simplicity makes it feel like a trusted friend in the kitchen, always ready to whip up a quick, indulgent treat without any drama.
What I love most is how it fits my lifestyle. I’m not cooking for a crowd, just me and my partner or a small gathering of friends. The FryDaddy’s four-serving capacity is spot-on for that. It’s not trying to be a fancy, high-tech gadget—it’s just really good at what it does.
Sure, it lacks bells and whistles like adjustable temperature settings, but for most home cooks, that’s not a dealbreaker. It’s like the reliable old pickup truck of deep fryers: no frills, but it gets the job done every time.
Pros of The Presto FryDaddy
- Compact and Space-Saving Design
One of the biggest wins for me with the FryDaddy is its size.
Measuring just 9.7 x 9 x 8.5 inches, it’s a countertop champ that doesn’t hog space.
I live in a cozy apartment, and every inch of counter real estate counts.
This fryer slips easily into a cabinet or even a deep drawer when I’m done, making it perfect for small kitchens or anyone who hates clutter.
Despite its petite stature, it still packs enough power to fry up four servings at a time, which is more than enough for my needs.
- Oil Efficiency
Let’s talk about oil. Deep frying can feel like you’re pouring money down the drain with all the oil some fryers demand, but the FryDaddy is a budget hero. It uses just four cups of oil to fry four servings, giving it an impressive 4:4 oil-to-food ratio.
I’ve fried everything from shrimp to donut holes, and I’m amazed at how little oil I go through compared to stovetop methods or bulkier fryers. Plus, the snap-on lid lets me store the oil right in the fryer for reuse, saving me even more.
- Ease of Use
I’m no chef, and I don’t have the patience for complicated appliances. The FryDaddy is as straightforward as it gets. You pour in the oil, plug it in, and wait for the oil to heat up. The built-in thermostat maintains a consistent frying temperature—around 325 to 350°F, based on my experiments with a thermometer.
No buttons, no dials, no stress. Even if you’ve never deep-fried before, you’ll feel like a pro with this thing. The included slotted scoop makes retrieving food a cinch, and it drains excess oil as you lift.
- Safety Features
Hot oil can be intimidating, especially if you’ve got curious kids or pets around. The FryDaddy’s snap-on lid is a lifesaver here, preventing splatters during cooking and keeping oil contained when stored. The exterior stays relatively cool to the touch, so I don’t worry about accidental burns.
The sturdy handle also makes it easy to move the fryer without risking a spill. While it doesn’t have a breakaway cord like some pricier models, I’ve found it stable enough on my counter to feel secure.
- Easy Cleanup
Nobody loves scrubbing greasy pots, but the FryDaddy makes cleanup a breeze. The nonstick interior and exterior mean food doesn’t stick, and a quick wipe with a soapy cloth is usually all it takes. The lack of a frying basket actually works in its favor here—fewer parts to clean.
I’ve never had to deal with stubborn residue, and the slotted scoop is dishwasher-safe, which is a nice bonus. Just make sure the fryer is completely cool before cleaning, and you’re good to go.
Cons of The Presto FryDaddy
- Limited Capacity for Larger Groups
As much as I love the FryDaddy, it’s not built for big crowds.
Its four-cup capacity is perfect for small households like mine, but if you’re feeding a family of five or hosting a game-night fry fest, you’ll be cooking in batches.
I once tried frying enough wings for six people, and it took multiple rounds, which slowed things down.
If you regularly cook for more than three or four people, you might want to look at a larger model like the Presto DualDaddy.
- No Temperature Control
The FryDaddy’s preset temperature is great for simplicity, but it’s a drawback if you want precision. It hovers around 325 to 350°F, which works for most fried foods, but some recipes—like delicate pastries or certain fish—require lower or higher temps.
I’ve managed to work around this by adjusting cooking times, but it’s not ideal if you’re a control freak in the kitchen. A separate thermometer can help, but that’s an extra step I’d rather avoid.
- No On/Off Switch
This one caught me off guard at first: the FryDaddy doesn’t have an on/off switch. You plug it in to start it and unplug it to turn it off. It’s not a huge deal once you get used to it, but I’ve had moments where I wished I could just flip a switch instead of yanking the cord.
For some, this might feel like a safety concern, especially if you’re not diligent about unplugging appliances.
- Not Dishwasher-Safe
While cleanup is easy, the FryDaddy itself isn’t dishwasher-safe. You’ll need to hand-wash the interior with a cloth and mild detergent.
For me, this isn’t a big issue since the nonstick surface makes it quick, but if you’re someone who loves tossing everything in the dishwasher, this might be a minor annoyance. The slotted scoop, thankfully, can go in the dishwasher, which is a small win.
Maintenance Tips For Your Presto FryDaddy
- Proper Oil Storage
One of the FryDaddy’s best features is that you can store oil right in the fryer, thanks to its airtight snap-on lid. After cooking, let the oil cool completely—usually a couple of hours—before putting the lid on.
I’ve found that straining the oil through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth removes food particles, which keeps it fresher for reuse. Store the fryer in a cool, dry place, and check the oil before each use.
If it smells off or looks cloudy, it’s time to replace it. I typically get three to five uses out of a batch of peanut oil before swapping it out.
- Cleaning the Fryer
Cleaning the FryDaddy is straightforward, but you’ve got to do it right to keep it in top shape. Once the oil is cool, pour it into a container for storage or disposal. Wipe the interior with a damp, soapy cloth—avoid abrasive sponges that could scratch the nonstick coating.
For the exterior, a quick wipe with a cloth keeps it looking shiny. Never submerge the fryer in water, as it’s not waterproof. If you notice any stubborn grease, a bit of white vinegar on a cloth works wonders. Dry it thoroughly before storing to prevent any moisture buildup.
- Checking the Cord and Plug
The power cord is your FryDaddy’s lifeline, so give it a quick inspection before each use. Look for fraying or exposed wires, especially if you’re moving the fryer around a lot. I make it a habit to unplug it after every use and store the cord loosely to avoid kinks.
If you notice any damage, don’t use the fryer until you can replace the cord—Presto’s customer service is pretty responsive for replacement parts. This small step can prevent electrical issues and keep your fryer safe.
- Avoiding Overheating
Since the FryDaddy doesn’t have an adjustable thermostat, it’s easy to assume it’ll always stay at the right temperature. But overuse can cause the oil to get too hot, especially if you’re frying multiple batches back-to-back.
I learned this the hard way when some mozzarella sticks came out darker than I wanted. Give the fryer a 10- to 15-minute break between batches to let the oil stabilize. If you’re unsure about the temperature, a deep-fry thermometer can be your best friend for monitoring.
- Regular Maintenance Checks
Every few months, I give my FryDaddy a once-over to make sure it’s in good shape. Check the nonstick coating for scratches or wear—while it’s durable, rough handling can damage it over time. Ensure the lid snaps on securely to prevent oil leaks during storage.
If you’re reusing oil, don’t let it sit in the fryer for weeks without checking; old oil can gum up the interior. A little TLC goes a long way in keeping your FryDaddy frying like a champ for years.
Comparison of Presto FryDaddy Deep Fryer With Other Brands
- T-fal Oil Filtration Ultimate EZ Clean Deep Fryer
The T-fal Oil Filtration Ultimate EZ Clean fryer is a step up in terms of features, but it comes with a higher price tag and a larger footprint. With a 3.5-liter oil capacity, it’s designed for bigger batches, making it a better fit for larger families than the FryDaddy.
Its standout feature is the oil filtration system, which automatically drains and filters oil for reuse, something I wish the FryDaddy had for extra convenience. The T-fal also offers adjustable temperature controls, giving you more flexibility for different recipes.
However, it’s bulkier, taking up more counter space, and the extra features make it more complex to use and clean compared to the FryDaddy’s plug-and-play simplicity. For me, the FryDaddy’s compact size and ease of use outweigh the T-fal’s bells and whistles, especially since I don’t need to fry for a crowd.
- Hamilton Beach Electric Deep Fryer
The Hamilton Beach Electric Deep Fryer, with its 4.5-liter oil capacity, is another strong contender for those who need more frying power. It has a basket system, which makes it easier to lower and lift food compared to the FryDaddy’s slotted spoon method.
I appreciate that it has an adjustable thermostat and a ready light, which takes the guesswork out of frying. But it’s not as compact, and the basket and removable parts mean more cleaning steps than the FryDaddy’s simple wipe-down.
The Hamilton Beach is also pricier, and while it’s great for larger gatherings, I find the FryDaddy’s smaller size and lower oil usage better suited for my casual frying needs.
- Presto CoolDaddy Cool-Touch Deep Fryer
Staying within the Presto family, the CoolDaddy Cool-Touch fryer is a direct competitor to the FryDaddy. It’s got a larger capacity—about six cups of oil—and comes with a frying basket and a charcoal filter to reduce odors, which is a nice touch if you’re sensitive to that fried-food smell lingering in your kitchen.
The CoolDaddy also has a cool-touch exterior and an adjustable thermostat, making it safer and more versatile. However, it’s bulkier and more expensive than the FryDaddy, and the extra parts make cleanup a bit more involved.
For me, the FryDaddy’s minimalist design wins out for quick, small-batch frying, but the CoolDaddy is better if you want more control and capacity.
- Cuisinart Compact Deep Fryer
The Cuisinart Compact Deep Fryer is another small fryer that rivals the FryDaddy in size and portability. It uses about 1.1 liters of oil, slightly more than the FryDaddy, and comes with a basket and adjustable temperature settings.
I like that it has a viewing window to check on food, something the FryDaddy lacks. But the Cuisinart’s higher price and more complex design mean it’s not as straightforward to use or clean.
The FryDaddy’s no-fuss approach feels more approachable for beginners like me, and its lower oil usage keeps costs down, making it a better value for everyday frying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You bet they are! I’ve found the Presto FryDaddy to be a fantastic choice for small households or anyone who wants quick, crispy fried foods without the hassle. Its compact size, low oil usage, and ease of use make it a winner for casual cooks like me. It’s not perfect for large groups or super precise recipes, but for fries, chicken, or shrimp for two or three people, it’s hard to beat. The nonstick surface and simple cleanup are cherries on top.
From my experience and what I’ve heard from other home cooks, the Presto FryDaddy is one of the most reliable for small-scale frying. Its simple design—no complex buttons or settings—means fewer things can go wrong. Presto’s reputation for durability shines here, and the two-year warranty adds peace of mind. For larger families, the Presto DualDaddy or T-fal EZ Clean might edge out for reliability due to their larger capacity and extra features, but for simplicity and consistency, the FryDaddy holds its own.
The FryDaddy doesn’t have an adjustable thermostat, but based on my tests with a thermometer, it maintains a frying temperature between 325 and 350°F. This range is ideal for most fried foods like fries, chicken, or onion rings. It can creep a bit higher with prolonged use, so I recommend giving it a short break between batches to keep things consistent. If you need a specific temperature, you’ll want to use a deep-fry thermometer for precision.
I’ve had the best results with peanut oil in my FryDaddy. It has a high smoke point—around 450°F—so it handles the fryer’s temperature without burning, and it gives food a clean, crisp flavor. Canola oil is a solid runner-up; it’s cheaper, with a smoke point of about 400°F, and it’s widely available. Corn or soybean oil works too, but I avoid olive oil because its lower smoke point can lead to a burnt taste. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s fresh and store it properly to keep your FryDaddy performing at its best.
Why The Presto FryDaddy Is A Kitchen Must-Have?
After months of frying everything from fries to funnel cakes, I’m sold on the Presto FryDaddy. Its compact size, oil efficiency, and dead-simple operation make it a no-brainer for anyone who loves fried treats without the mess or expense of larger fryers.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned home cook, this little powerhouse delivers crispy, delicious results every time. Grab one, and you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.