Description
These Funnel Cake Bites are a delightful twist on the classic fair treat, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a fun snack. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these bite-sized fried cakes are dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Ready in just 20 minutes, they bring all the carnival magic to your kitchen without the hassle.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Frying and Serving
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2 cups or enough for deep frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, about 1/4 cup)
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined. In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then add the milk and vanilla extract. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking until you have a smooth, slightly thick batter with no lumps.
- Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches approximately 375°F (190°C), or until a small drop of batter sizzles and rises to the surface immediately.
- Fry the funnel cake bites: Using a piping bag or a squeeze bottle, carefully drizzle the batter in a swirling motion directly into the hot oil, forming small, bite-sized spirals or nests. Fry 3-4 bites at a time, without overcrowding the pan, for about 2 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp.
- Drain and cool: Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the funnel cake bites from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and cool slightly.
- Serve: Once slightly cooled, dust the funnel cake bites generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm for the best taste.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature is hot enough to prevent greasy funnel cake bites but not so hot that they burn quickly.
- You can keep the fried bites warm in a low oven (around 200°F/93°C) while finishing the rest.
- For a flavored twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
- If you don’t have a piping bag, a plastic squeeze bottle or a small spoon can be used to drizzle the batter into the oil.
- Serve with dips like chocolate sauce, caramel, or fruit preserves for extra indulgence.
