The Rhode Island doughboy is typically a large, flattened square of pizza dough that is deep-fried until golden brown, then dusted with a hefty dose of powdered sugar. It's always served piping hot. Some say that the taste of melting sugar against the warm, chewy dough can be addictive, so the treat is often found at carnivals throughout Rhode Island or in the neighbouring regions.

The best doughboys are said to be sold at the oldest beach stand in the state, called Iggy's Doughboys and Chowder House, where one can choose between regular, powdered or cinnamon sugar toppings, served in a grease-stained paper bag and ready to be enjoyed.