Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: Makes about 6 large funnel cakes
Ingredients
To make these delicious funnel cakes, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Frying oil (vegetable or canola oil work well)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons shortening
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Batter
1. Beat the Eggs: Start by cracking the eggs into a large mixing bowl. Beat them until they are light and frothy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which helps create a light and fluffy funnel cake.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk, water, and vanilla extract. Whisk well to combine. The mixture should be smooth and well-integrated.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed to ensure even distribution.
4. Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Beat until a smooth batter forms. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape but fluid enough to flow through the funnel.
Frying the Funnel Cakes
5. Heat the Oil: In a deep-fryer or a large, deep pot, heat the oil to 375°F (190°C). Maintaining the correct temperature is essential for achieving a crisp exterior and a tender interior.
6. Prepare to Fry: Use a 1/3 cup measure to portion out the batter. Prepare a funnel, and cover the bottom of the funnel spout with your finger.
7. Form the Funnel Cakes: Pour 1/3 cup of batter into the funnel. Move the funnel over the hot oil and release your finger, allowing the batter to flow into the oil in a circular motion. This creates the classic spiral shape of a funnel cake.
8. Fry to Perfection: Fry the funnel cakes for about 2 minutes per side or until they are golden brown. Use tongs to carefully flip them halfway through cooking. Transfer the fried funnel cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Adding the Toppings
9. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave for about 30 seconds, then stir until smooth and fully melted.
10. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with the cinnamon. Mix well.
11. Garnish: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the funnel cakes. Follow with a generous sprinkle of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Finally, dust with powdered sugar for a perfect finish.
12. Serve Warm: Funnel cakes are best enjoyed warm. Serve immediately to experience the full flavor and texture of this delightful treat.
Tips for the Perfect Funnel Cake
• Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure your oil stays at 375°F. Too hot, and the cakes will burn; too cold, and they’ll be greasy.
• Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk; if too thin, add a bit more flour.
• Even Frying: Avoid overcrowding the fryer. Frying too many at once will lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking.
• Creative Toppings: While this recipe uses chocolate and cinnamon sugar, feel free to get creative with toppings. Fresh fruits, caramel sauce, whipped cream, or even ice cream make excellent additions.
Why This Recipe Works
This funnel cake recipe is designed to be foolproof, ensuring delicious results every time. By beating the eggs well and carefully mixing the ingredients, you create a batter that fries up light and airy. The precise temperature of the oil ensures that the funnel cakes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The combination of chocolate, cinnamon sugar, and powdered sugar provides a perfect balance of sweetness and flavor, making these funnel cakes utterly irresistible.
Conclusion
Making funnel cakes at home is a fun and rewarding experience. This recipe provides all the tips and tricks you need to create perfect funnel cakes every time. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving, these homemade funnel cakes are sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, heat up that oil, and enjoy the delightful process of making (and eating) these scrumptious treats.
