Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Classic Funnel Cake Recipe

Classic Funnel Cake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Crisp, golden funnel cake whisks carnival memories onto your plate with powdered sugar-dusted perfection. Delicate fried batter swirls create a nostalgic treat that brings sweet excitement to any dessert moment.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups (355 ml) milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 cups (946 ml) vegetable oil for frying

Sweeteners and Seasoning:

  • ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (177°C), ensuring the oil is deep enough for proper frying.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt using a whisk to eliminate any potential lumps.
  3. Create a separate mixing bowl and vigorously whisk whole milk, large eggs, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and fully integrated.
  4. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.
  5. Test the oil temperature with a small drop of batter – it should sizzle and float immediately when ready.
  6. Using a funnel, piping bag, or ladle, carefully drizzle 1/3 to of batter into the hot oil, creating intricate circular and criss-cross patterns.
  7. Fry the funnel cake for approximately 1-2 minutes per side, rotating when the bottom turns golden brown and crispy.
  8. Extract the funnel cake using a slotted spider or metal spatula, allowing excess oil to drip back into the pan.
  9. Place the fried cake on a wire rack or layer of paper towels to absorb additional oil and help maintain crispiness.
  10. Generously dust the warm funnel cake with confectioners’ sugar using a fine-mesh sifter, ensuring even coverage.
  11. Serve immediately while still warm and crisp for the best texture and flavor experience.

Notes

  • Precise oil temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy, golden-brown funnel cake that’s light and airy.
  • Whisk dry and wet ingredients separately to ensure smooth, lump-free batter for the perfect texture.
  • Create intricate web-like patterns by slowly drizzling batter in circular motions for classic funnel cake appearance.
  • Use a candy thermometer to monitor oil heat, preventing burning or undercooked centers.
  • Drain excess oil on paper towels to keep the funnel cake crisp and not greasy.
  • Serve immediately after dusting with powdered sugar for the most delightful, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 525 kcal
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 290 mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 28 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg