If you’re looking to bring the magic of fairgrounds right into your own kitchen, this Funnel Cake Fries Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine crispy, golden strips of sweet, pillowy fried dough dusted with a sparkling shower of powdered sugar—a delightful twist on the classic funnel cake that’s perfect for sharing or indulging all by yourself. This recipe turns the fun of funnel cakes into easy-to-eat fries, making them not only irresistible but also wonderfully convenient for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy weekend treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Funnel Cake Fries Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a critical role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and golden color. With simple pantry staples, you’re just moments away from frying up a batch of heavenly fries.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): The trusty oil that gives the fries their crispy, golden exterior without overpowering the taste.
- 2 large eggs: These provide structure and richness to the batter, helping it puff up beautifully during frying.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the powdered sugar topping perfectly.
- 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) whole milk: A creamy liquid base that keeps the batter smooth and moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a lovely, warm aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 2 cups (240 ml) all-purpose flour: The foundation of the batter, contributing to the light and tender texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: The magic leavening agent that ensures each fry is delightfully airy and crisp.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and strengthens the batter’s flavor.
How to Make Funnel Cake Fries Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by filling a heavy-bottomed pot with two inches of vegetable oil and heat it to 375°F. Keeping a consistent temperature ensures your funnel cake fries cook evenly with that perfect golden crunch.
Step 2: Whisk Eggs and Sugar
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture looks foamy and bright yellow. This step is essential because it incorporates air, contributing to the lightness of your fries.
Step 3: Add the Milk and Vanilla
Pour in the whole milk and vanilla extract, whisking until everything blends smoothly. The vanilla adds that classic, comforting flavor that’ll have everyone asking for more.
Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gently add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt into the wet mixture. Whisk carefully just until there are no lumps remaining; overmixing can make the batter tough instead of tender.
Step 5: Prepare for Frying
Transfer the batter into a squeeze bottle or large piping bag with an opening about half an inch wide. This setup lets you create those signature fries easily and neatly when you’re ready to fry.
Step 6: Fry the Funnel Cake Fries
Once the oil has reached 375°F, pipe strips of batter straight into the hot oil—about 5 to 6 fries at a time to avoid crowding the pot. Fry them for about 1 minute before flipping with a slotted spoon to cook the other side until golden brown.
Step 7: Drain and Repeat
Remove the fries once both sides are beautifully golden and let the excess oil drain on a paper-lined rack or plate. Continue frying the remaining batter in batches.
Step 8: Finish with a Dusting
Last but certainly not least, dust the fries with a generous sprinkle of confectioners’ sugar while they’re still warm. This finishing touch elevates the dish into pure indulgence.
How to Serve Funnel Cake Fries Recipe
Garnishes
Simple powdered sugar is a classic topping, but feel free to experiment with cinnamon sugar, chocolate drizzle, or even a dusting of colorful sprinkles to add a playful touch.
Side Dishes
Pair your funnel cake fries with fresh berries or a small bowl of warm fruit compote for a fruity contrast, or dip them in creamy vanilla or chocolate sauce for double the decadence.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve funnel cake fries in charming paper cones or colorful baskets for a festive look that transports your guests straight to the county fair. For parties, stack them high for a shareable centerpiece that everyone will gravitate toward.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover funnel cake fries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day, but remember they taste best fresh and crispy right after frying.
Freezing
If you want to save them longer, freeze the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to one month and reheat nicely when you want a quick treat.
Reheating
Reheat your frozen or leftover funnel cake fries in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes to restore their crunch without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Absolutely! Oils with high smoke points like canola or peanut oil work just as well and give a great crispy finish.
Is it okay to prepare the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to make and use the batter fresh for optimal puffiness, but you can refrigerate it for up to an hour if needed. Give it a gentle stir before piping.
How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?
A cooking thermometer is your best friend here, but you can also drop a small bit of batter in the oil—if it sizzles and rises quickly, you’re good to go.
Can I add flavors to the batter?
Definitely! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warm spice notes, or swap vanilla for almond extract for a unique twist.
What if I don’t have a squeeze bottle or piping bag?
You can simply use a sturdy spoon or small ladle to carefully drizzle the batter into the hot oil, though a piping bag helps create more uniform fries.
Final Thoughts
This Funnel Cake Fries Recipe is a fun, easy way to bring a beloved carnival treat right into your home kitchen. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging on your own, these fries promise crispy, sweet, and utterly enchanting bites of comfort. Trust me, once you try making these, funnel cake fries will become a happy staple in your dessert rotation!
Print
Funnel Cake Fries Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy, golden funnel cake fries made from a light vanilla batter fried until perfectly crunchy and dusted with powdered sugar. This fun twist on classic funnel cake serves as a delicious treat or dessert, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Frying Oil
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Batter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240 ml) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Fill a heavy-bottomed pot with two inches of vegetable oil and heat it to 375°F (190°C). This is the optimal temperature for frying the funnel cake fries to achieve a crispy exterior while avoiding greasiness.
- Mix eggs and sugar: In a large bowl, whisk together the 2 large eggs and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes foamy and bright yellow, providing a light texture to the batter.
- Add milk and vanilla: Whisk in 1 ¼ cups of whole milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully combined, infusing the batter with a subtle vanilla flavor and creating a smooth liquid base.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt to the wet mixture. Whisk to combine until just smooth and free of lumps, being careful not to overmix to keep the batter light.
- Prepare batter dispenser: Transfer the batter into a squeeze bottle or a large piping bag, making sure to cut an opening about ½ inch wide for piping. This will make it easier to form the fries into the hot oil.
- Set up frying station: Arrange a plate or wire rack lined with paper towels nearby to drain excess oil from the fries after frying.
- Fry the fries: Once the oil is at 375°F, pipe strips of batter into the oil, about 5-6 fries at a time, avoiding overcrowding which can lower the oil temperature. Fry for about 1 minute, then flip using a metal slotted spoon and cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Drain and cool: Remove the fries from the oil and place them on the paper-lined rack to drain excess oil. This helps keep the fries crispy.
- Finish and serve: Continue frying the remaining batter in batches. Once all fries are cooked, dust generously with confectioners’ sugar before serving while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make sure the oil temperature stays consistent at 375°F to ensure even frying and crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd the fryer; frying in small batches prevents oil temperature drop.
- Use a metal slotted spoon or spider for easy flipping and removal from hot oil.
- For even crispier fries, drain well on a wire rack rather than just paper towels.
- You can add cinnamon to the powdered sugar dusting for extra flavor variation.
