Description

This easy Crispy Funnel Cake Recipe brings fair nostalgia home with golden, lacy, crispy edges and a fluffy center. It’s a perfect family-friendly treat for creating special memories without leaving the house.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
0.25 cup granulated sugar
1.5 cups milk
2 large eggs
2 tsp baking powder
A pinch salt
2–3 inches neutral oil, for deep-frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

Instructions

Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, 0.25 cup sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until evenly mixed and light.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk 1.5 cups milk and 2 large eggs until well blended and slightly frothy.
Mix Batter: Gradually add wet ingredients to dry, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine. If batter seems too thick, add a tablespoon more milk until it resembles pancake batter.
Heat Oil: Pour 2-3 inches of oil into a deep pot or Dutch oven. Heat to 350-375F (175-190C) using a thermometer for accuracy to ensure your funnel cake is crispy, not greasy.
Pour and Fry: Hold a funnel over the hot oil, blocking the opening with your finger. Pour 0.5 cup of batter into the funnel. Release your finger and move the funnel in a circular motion, overlapping the batter to create a classic lacy design. Fry until edges are golden.
Flip and Drain: Fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and beautifully crispy. Remove with tongs, letting excess oil drain back into the pot.
Serve Hot: Immediately transfer the fried funnel cake to a plate lined with paper towels, then dust generously with powdered sugar for that iconic fair-style finish.

Notes

Use fresh, quality eggs and ensure baking powder isn’t expired for best results. Choose a high-quality neutral oil for frying. Avoid oil that is too cold (greasy results) or too hot (burnt outside, uncooked inside). Do not overmix the batter to prevent a tough funnel cake. Consider adding 1 tsp vanilla extract or a dash of cinnamon to the batter for extra flavor. Kids can choose their favorite toppings like fresh fruit, chocolate syrup, or sprinkles.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Deep Frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 funnel cake
Calories: 380 calories
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 250 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 50 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 60 mg

Keywords: Crispy Funnel Cake, Fair Food, Easy Dessert, Family Friendly, Deep Fried, Sweet Treat, Quick Snack, Homemade Funnel Cake, Nostalgic