Imagine biting into a crispy, golden funnel cake topped with sweet, juicy strawberries and a cloud of whipped cream—pure dessert heaven! This easy funnel cake recipe is a carnival classic that you can make at home, and the optional strawberry topping makes it even more irresistible. With minimal ingredients and just a few minutes of cooking time, this treat is sure to impress your friends and family.
Funnel cake
Difficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes10
minutes380
kcalThis easy funnel cake recipe is made even more indulgent with a fresh strawberry topping and a dollop of whipped cream. Crispy, golden, and full of carnival charm, these funnel cakes are perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk
2 large eggs
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- For the Strawberry Topping:
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1 tbsp sugar (optional)
Whipped cream (for serving)
Directions
- Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
- Heat the Oil: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Funnel Cakes: Pour the batter into a funnel or squeeze bottle, and swirl the batter in a circular motion over the hot oil. Fry each side for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare Strawberry Topping: While the cakes are frying, mix the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of sugar in a bowl and let them sit for a few minutes to release their juices.
- Drain and Serve: Drain the funnel cakes on paper towels. Dust generously with powdered sugar, top with fresh strawberries, and add a dollop of whipped cream. Serve warm for the best experience.
Notes
- Fresh or frozen strawberries can be used for the topping.
- You can substitute strawberries with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries.
- For extra sweetness, drizzle some strawberry syrup along with the fresh strawberries.
Additional Tips:
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh strawberries will give your easy funnel cake recipe a bright and juicy contrast to the crispy funnel cake. If using frozen berries, make sure to thaw them fully and drain excess liquid.
- Topping Variations: Instead of whipped cream, try serving with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch.
- Serve Immediately: Funnel cakes are best enjoyed right after frying to keep them crispy, especially when adding juicy strawberries and whipped cream.
- Strawberry Prep: Macerating the strawberries with sugar helps enhance their natural sweetness and creates a lovely syrup to drizzle over the funnel cakes.
Recipe Variants :
Funnel cakes are easy to customize, and the addition of toppings like strawberries and cream elevates this dessert. If strawberries aren’t available, try other toppings like caramelized bananas, mixed berries, or chocolate sauce. You can also create savory funnel cakes by omitting the sugar and topping them with cheese or bacon. With just a few tweaks, you can enjoy a whole new flavor experience with this easy funnel cake recipe.
- Caramelized Banana Funnel Cake: Top with caramelized bananas and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Mixed Berry Funnel Cake: Replace strawberries with a combination of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries.
- Chocolate Funnel Cake: Drizzle melted chocolate or chocolate syrup over the funnel cake.
- Savory Funnel Cake: Skip the sugar and vanilla, and top with cheese and herbs for a unique savory twist.
What can you use instead of a funnel to make funnel cakes?
If you don’t have a funnel handy, you can easily substitute with a squeeze bottle, a plastic bag with the tip snipped off, or a piping bag. These options allow you to swirl the batter into the hot oil with precision. The key to an authentic funnel cake shape is the swirling motion, and any of these alternatives will help you achieve that iconic design.
What’s the best way to store funnel cakes for later?
If you have leftovers, store the funnel cakes in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes to regain their crispiness. Freezing is also an option: individually wrap each cake and freeze in a bag. Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cakes soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Funnel cakes are best fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
You can prepare the strawberry topping a day in advance. Slice the strawberries, mix with sugar, and refrigerate in an airtight container. The sugar will release their juices, creating a syrup for the funnel cake.
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, canned whipped cream works great for this recipe. However, freshly whipped cream will add a more luxurious texture and flavor.
You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Stir before using and bring to room temperature before frying.
Absolutely! Thaw frozen strawberries and drain any excess liquid before using them. You can also mix them with a bit of sugar to enhance the flavor.
Place funnel cakes on a wire rack after frying to keep them crispy. This prevents sogginess. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Yes, you can skip the powdered sugar and top your funnel cake with other options like chocolate sauce, fruit syrup, or even cinnamon sugar for a different flavor.
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. This ensures even frying without altering the flavor of the funnel cakes.
Why wait for a carnival when you can enjoy a delicious, crispy funnel cake anytime? This easy funnel cake recipe, paired with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, turns a classic into a gourmet dessert. Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend treat or something special to serve at gatherings, this recipe is bound to be a hit!
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