Fair-Style Funnel Cake (Printable Format)

Golden, crispy funnel cake dusted with powdered sugar delivers nostalgic fairground flavor right at home.

# What You Need:

→ Batter

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 2 large eggs
06 - 1 1/2 cups whole milk
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ For Frying

08 - 2 cups vegetable oil, for deep frying

→ Topping

09 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
02 - In a separate bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Add whole milk and vanilla extract, whisking until mixture is smooth.
03 - Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, whisking continuously until a smooth, lump-free batter forms. The batter should be pourable yet slightly thick.
04 - In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C), monitoring temperature for accurate frying.
05 - Transfer batter to a squeeze bottle, piping bag, or measuring cup with a spout for easy pouring.
06 - Carefully drizzle batter in a swirling, lacy pattern over hot oil, creating a round cake approximately 6–8 inches in diameter.
07 - Fry for 1–2 minutes per side, using tongs to gently flip when the underside turns golden brown.
08 - Remove the fried cake with tongs and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
09 - Generously sprinkle powdered sugar over the warm cake before serving.
10 - Repeat the frying process with remaining batter and serve immediately for best texture.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Easy process that anyone can master at home
  • Crispy outside and tender inside with that classic fairground flavor
  • Quick to prep and cook so you can have a fun treat in under thirty minutes
  • Uses pantry staples you probably already have
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings
02 -
  • High in nostalgic flavor and instantly recognizable as a fair treat
  • Vegetarian friendly and free from nuts if you use neutral oil
  • Very easy to double for a crowd
03 -
  • Always test your oil with a thermometer for that perfect golden crisp
  • Rest the batter for ten minutes before frying if you can for an airier crumb
  • Do not skimp on the powdered sugar as it is half of the fair experience