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Dorothy Thomas

Funnel Cake Recipe

A classic fairground treat, funnel cake is a crispy, golden fried dough topped with powdered sugar or other sweet toppings. Easy to make at home, this recipe brings the carnival to your kitchen!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 6
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups All-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp Granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp Baking powder
  • ½ tsp Salt
  • 1 cup Milk
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • ½ cups Water (adjust for consistency)
  • cups Vegetable oil (for frying)
  • tbsp Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Funnel or squeeze bottle
  • Deep frying pan or Dutch oven
  • Slotted spoon or tongs
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
  3. Gradually add water until the batter reaches a thin, pourable consistency (similar to pancake batter).
  4. Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or Dutch oven.
  5. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).
  6. Pour about ½ cup of batter into a funnel (or squeeze bottle) while covering the bottom with your finger.
  7. Hold the funnel over the hot oil and release the batter in a swirling motion to create a lacy pattern.
  8. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  9. Use a slotted spoon to flip and remove the funnel cake. Drain on paper towels.
  10. Dust generously with powdered sugar while still warm.
  11. Dust generously with powdered sugar while still warm.
  12. Optional toppings: chocolate syrup, whipped cream, fresh berries, or cinnamon sugar.

Notes

  • Consistency is key: The batter should be thin enough to drizzle but not too runny.
  • Oil temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure proper frying temp—too hot will burn, too cool will make it greasy.
  • Storage: Best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in an air fryer or oven.