Too hot to turn on the oven? This one’s for you. Bring the magic of the summer carnival right to your kitchen. You can make homemade funnel cake without the long lines. It is fast, fun, and so satisfying.
There is nothing like the smell of sweet dough frying on a warm evening. This recipe delivers that nostalgic fair flavor in your own home. Your family will love watching these golden treats puff up. It is the ultimate summer surprise for kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Funnel Cake
This recipe is a winner because it uses basic pantry staples. You likely have everything in your kitchen right now. It is ready in 25 minutes from start to finish. This is the perfect kid-approved treat for a lazy summer afternoon.
Making this treat at home is much cheaper than at the fair. You can feed a whole family for just a few dollars. It is also a wonderful activity for kids to watch. They love seeing the batter puff up in the oil. It feels like a science experiment and a snack in one.
Simple Method
You just whisk the batter until it is smooth. Then, you pour it through a funnel into hot oil. It creates a beautiful, golden lattice every single time. Even if you are a beginner, you can do this easily. The funnel does all the hard work for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are mostly simple pantry staples you already have on hand.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 quart vegetable oil for frying
- 0.25 cup powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet to 375°F (190°C).
- Whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar in a large bowl.
- In a separate container, combine eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Slowly whisk the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
- Whisk until the batter is smooth and pourable.
- Block the bottom of a funnel with your finger.
- Pour 0.5 cups of batter into the funnel.
- Position the funnel over the hot oil and release the batter.
- Move in a circular and criss-cross motion to form a lattice.
- Fry for 90 seconds until the underside is golden brown.
- Flip the cake using a slotted spoon.
- Fry the second side for 60 seconds.
- Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Immediately apply a layer of sifted powdered sugar.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Dust them heavily with powdered sugar while they are hot. Serve them on a big plate for the whole family. Add fresh summer berries or a drizzle of chocolate. It makes any night feel like a special occasion. Don’t forget the extra napkins for the powdered sugar!
Keep It Fresh
These are best enjoyed fresh and crispy. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Reheat them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes. This brings back the perfect crunch. Avoid the microwave as it makes them soggy. This keeps the outside golden and the inside tender.
Tips for Best Results
- Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 375°F.
- If the oil is too cool, the dough gets greasy.
- A squeeze bottle works great if you don’t have a funnel.
- Don’t worry if the shape isn’t perfect or messy.
- The messy swirls are part of the charm.
- For a summer party, make a toppings bar.
- Fry in small batches to keep the oil hot.
- Always sift your powdered sugar for a snowy look.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Top with cinnamon sugar for a warm flavor.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
- Use gluten-free flour for a friendly alternative.
- Swap vanilla for almond extract for a nutty twist.
Quick Answers
Can I make the batter ahead?
Yes, you can mix the batter two hours early. Keep it in the fridge until you are ready. Give it a quick whisk before frying. This is great for entertaining guests.
What if I don’t have a funnel?
You can use a plastic squeeze bottle instead. A measuring cup with a spout also works. Just pour in a thin, steady stream. The lattice will still look beautiful.
How do I know the oil is ready?
Use a kitchen thermometer for the best results. If you don’t have one, drop in a bit of batter. It should sizzle and float immediately. This ensures a perfectly crispy texture.
I hope this sweet treat brings a little carnival magic to your home. Give it a try and enjoy every crispy bite. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Classic Funnel Cake
Ingredients
- 2 cups all -purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon sal t
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 large egg s
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 quart vegetable oil for frying
- 0.25 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar in a large bowl.
- In a separate container, combine eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Slowly incorporate the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, whisking until the batter reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Block the bottom of a funnel with a finger and pour 0.5 cups of batter into it.
- Position the funnel over the hot oil, release the batter, and move in a circular and criss-cross motion to form a lattice.
- Fry the batter for 90 seconds until the underside is golden brown, then flip using a slotted spoon.
- Fry the second side for 60 seconds.
- Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil and immediately apply a layer of sifted powdered sugar.
