There’s something magical about enjoying a funnel cake at the county fair, but who says you have to wait for fair season? You can easily bring that nostalgic treat right into your kitchen anytime you want. It’s made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you like to keep it classic with a dusting of powdered sugar or love to pile on the toppings, this recipe is your ticket to a fun and delicious treat that the whole family will love.

For a fun twist on funnel cakes, be sure to check out our churro funnel cake for a mash-up made in heaven!

Why Our Recipe

  • Get the county fair funnel cake experience without leaving your kitchen.
  • Made with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
  • Dust with powdered sugar or go all out with the toppings.
A funnel cake sprinkled with powdered sugar on a blue plate

Keep your funnel cake classic with a dusting of powdered sugar, or get creative with your favorite toppings. There are tons of delicious options!

Ingredient Notes

  • Eggs: Good ol’ grade AA large eggs are what you want.
  • Milk: Whole milk brings all the fatty goodness, but really any milk will do, including milk alternatives.
  • Water: Room temperature is all you need.
  • Vanilla Extract: You can substitute with almond extract for all you almond lovers, but reduce the amount to 1/4 teaspoon since almond extract is stronger.
  • Granulated Sugar: Add just the right amount of sweet.
  • Baking Powder: This is crucial for giving the funnel cakes their rise and fluffiness. Make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best results.
  • Salt: Flavor enhancer.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for your funnel cakes. You can also use bread flour.
  • Frying Oil: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, for frying.

Topping Ideas

Powdered Sugar: The classic choice that never disappoints. A generous dusting of powdered sugar gives your funnel cake that traditional fairground vibe.

Cinnamon Sugar: For a little churro vibe, mix cinnamon with granulated sugar and sprinkle it over your funnel cake.

Apple Pie Filling (or other pie fillings): Top your funnel cake with warm apple pie filling for classic Americana, or use other pie fillings like cherry or blueberry for a fruity twist.

Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your funnel cake à la mode by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Vanilla isn’t the only option! Try different ice cream flavors like chocolate, strawberry, or even butter pecan to create your own signature funnel cake.

Strawberries and Whipped Cream: Fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream is a perfect combination.

Whipped Cream: A cloud of whipped cream is always a good idea. Add it on top of any other toppings for an extra layer of creamy goodness.

Chocolate Syrup: Drizzle your funnel cake with chocolate syrup for an indulgent finish.

Caramel Syrup: The buttery sweetness of caramel syrup perfectly complements the crispy, fluffy funnel cake.

A funnel cake sprinkled with powdered sugar on a blue plate

Frying Tips

Flipping your funnel cake can be a bit tricky. A flat spatula and a pair of tongs are your best friends here. The spatula provides support underneath the funnel cake, while the tongs help guide the flip without splashing hot oil.

When you’re ready to flip, lower the spatula gently under the funnel cake. Use the tongs to help guide the cake as you slowly and carefully flip it over. Avoid flipping too high or too quickly to prevent splashing oil.

Storing the Batter

Funnel cake batter will stay good in the fridge for about 24 hours so you can make funnel cakes whenever you are ready. It will start to discolor towards the end of that time frame.

More fair food favorites…

Watch the video below where we will walk you through every step of the recipe with a video demonstration.