Make a classic county fair treat at home with this simple recipe for crispy, golden funnel cakes. This recipe focuses on easy batter preparation and proper frying technique.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:25 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Dessert
Method:Deep Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1 1/2 cups milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vegetable oil, for frying
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix. A few lumps are acceptable. The batter should be thin enough to pour easily.
Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Carefully transfer the batter into a funnel with a small opening, or use a pastry bag fitted with a plain round tip (about 1/2 inch opening).
Hold the funnel over the hot oil. Start pouring the batter in a circular motion, moving outward and then inward to create the classic crisscross pattern. Work quickly.
Fry for about 1 to 2 minutes per side, until the funnel cake is deep golden brown and crisp.
Carefully remove the funnel cake with a slotted spoon or spider and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Dust generously with powdered sugar while still warm. Serve immediately.
Notes
For extra flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
Maintain the oil temperature between 365°F and 375°F for the best texture. If the oil is too cool, the cake will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
If you do not have a funnel, you can use a large zip-top bag, snip a corner off, and use that to pipe the batter.