Funnel cakes. Just the name evokes images of carefree days at the carnival, the sweet aroma of fried dough mingling with the joyous laughter of children. This classic treat, with its crispy edges and fluffy center, dusted with powdered sugar, holds a special place in many hearts.
While a trip to the fair might be the easiest way to get your hands on this delicacy, making your own funnel cake at home is surprisingly simple. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step, from mixing the batter to achieving that perfect golden-brown finish. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your newfound funnel cake expertise!
Everything You Need to Make Funnel Cakes
Before we dive into the fun part, let’s gather our ingredients and tools.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Ingredient Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend.
- For a dairy-free version: Use your preferred milk alternative, such as almond milk or soy milk.
Essential Tools:
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Funnel or squeeze bottle with a large opening
- Large, deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Paper towels
- Wire rack (optional)
