Description
County Fair Funnel Cakes are crispy, golden treats with a soft, airy center and a classic dusting of powdered sugar. Reminiscent of your favorite fair food, these homemade funnel cakes are surprisingly simple to make with pantry staples and are perfect for a fun dessert or weekend indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Frying and Serving
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined to ensure even distribution of leavening agents and seasoning.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly, then add the milk and vanilla extract. Mix well to combine the liquids and infuse a subtle vanilla flavor.
- Combine into Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until a smooth batter forms. The consistency should be pourable yet thick enough to hold shape, similar to pancake batter.
- Heat Oil: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or saucepan and heat it to 375°F (190°C) using a thermometer to ensure the correct frying temperature.
- Fry Funnel Cakes: Pour the batter into a funnel, squeeze bottle, or piping bag. Release the batter into the hot oil in a circular, overlapping motion to create a lacy, web-like pattern.
- Cook Until Golden: Fry the batter for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until the funnel cake is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip using tongs or a slotted spoon to cook evenly on both sides.
- Drain and Dust: Remove the fried funnel cake from the oil and drain excess oil on paper towels. Dust generously with powdered sugar while still warm to enhance the flavor and appearance.
- Serve Warm: Serve the funnel cakes immediately for the best texture and flavor, optionally topping with chocolate syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or cinnamon sugar as desired.
Notes
- You can also top with chocolate syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.
- If the batter is too thick, add a splash more milk to achieve the desired pourable consistency.
- Serve immediately after frying for the crispiest texture; the funnel cakes soften as they cool.
