Funnel cakes got their name because batter is poured into a skillet, containing hot cooking oil, through a funnel, in a circular, overlapping motion. This familiar pastry is made while you wait and served warm. Funnel cakes were introduced to the United States by the Pennsylvania Dutch and have been a staple at carnivals, street fairs, and other public events for over 100 years.
Here is a recipe for an easy, light-tasting funnel cake that uses a minimal amount of sugar, plus cinnamon and vanilla, for a subtle, sweet flavor:
Funnel Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 cups oil needed for frying
- Heat the 2 cups of oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until hot. You will know the oil is the right temperature when a pinch of flour dropped in the oil sizzles immediately without smoking.
- Beat together egg, milk, and vanilla. In a separate bowl, mix all other dry ingredients and slowly add to the egg mixture, beating as you go, until the batter is smooth.
- Pour batter into a funnel, allowing it to drop into the hot oil, starting in the center of the skillet and working outwards in a circular, overlapping pattern. (If you do not have a funnel, you can use either a pitcher, or a large freezer or sandwich bag by cutting a corner with about an inch opening and squeezing batter through it).
- Cook 2-3 minutes on one side. Turn cake over and cook additional 2 minutes on the other side. Both sides should be golden brown and crispy.
- Place on a paper towel to drain off excess oil.
- Place on a plate and top by sprinkling with powdered sugar. Serve while still warm.
Funnel Cake Serving Suggestions
This recipe makes one 7 or 8 inch round funnel cake. It is the standard size that is served at carnivals and other public events. A cooked funnel cake will be crispy on the outside with a cake-like consistency on the inside.
In addition to powdered sugar, there are other toppings that are favorites. Spread with your favorite jam, preserves, or jelly. Drizzle with chocolate, honey, or other syrups. Or, enjoy a big scoop of ice cream on top of a freshly made warm pastry. Whichever topping you choose, funnel cakes are as much fun to make as they are to eat. They are something that the whole family can enjoy.
Cynthia Collins - Cynthia Collins is equally at home in music, history, and writing. After graduating from Drury University in Springfield, MO with a ...
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