Funnel Cake Bites are one of those treats that bring a smile to my kids’ faces. It’s always a hit when we whip them up after school, especially when we have friends over. These delightful little bites are crispy, sweet, and oh-so-fun to make together as a family.
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Why Make This Recipe
Making Funnel Cake Bites is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories. The kids love helping out, and there’s something magical about watching those little balls of batter puff up and turn golden in the oil. Plus, they’re perfect for a cozy snack or a special treat for a movie night. With a dusting of powdered sugar on top, they look as good as they taste! Trust me, once you try these, you’ll find yourself making them again and again.
How to Make Funnel Cake Bites
Let’s dive into the simple steps for making these delicious Funnel Cake Bites. You’ll be surprised at how easy they are!
Ingredients
- Vegetable oil or shortening (for frying)
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or canola oil)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting cooked funnel cake bites)
Directions
Start by getting your stockpot, Dutch oven, or a big frying pan ready. Pour in enough shortening or oil to fill it about 3 inches deep. You want to make sure there’s enough oil for frying.
Attach a food thermometer to the pot and heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F. This is the sweet spot for frying!
While the oil warms up, grab a bowl and whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, sugar, and nutmeg.
In another mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re nice and foamy. Then add in the heavy cream, milk, vanilla extract, melted butter, and vegetable oil.
Combine your dry ingredients with the wet ingredients and mix until the batter comes together. It doesn’t need to be perfect—just make sure there aren’t any big lumps.
Now comes the fun part! Use a ladle to scoop a tablespoon or two of batter into the heated oil. You’ll see it puff up right away. Once the bottom is golden brown, flip the bite over to brown the other side.
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the bites from the oil and let them drain on some paper towels.
To finish, sprinkle those warm bites with powdered sugar and serve them right away. Enjoy the smiles!
How to Serve Funnel Cake Bites
Funnel Cake Bites are best served fresh and warm. You can present them on a pretty plate dusted with powdered sugar, or if you want to make it fun, let the kids sprinkle their own sugar! Pair them with chocolate sauce, strawberry jam, or maybe even whipped cream for dipping. They make a great addition to a family movie night or a birthday party treat!
How to Store Funnel Cake Bites
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in our house!), store the cooled Funnel Cake Bites in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best enjoyed the same day, but you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes for a little crunch back.
Tips to Make Funnel Cake Bites
- Temperature Check: Always make sure your oil is at the right temperature. If it’s too cool, your bites won’t get that nice golden crunch.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry just a few at a time to keep the oil hot. If you add too much batter at once, they might stick together.
- Fun Add-Ins: Feel free to mix it up! You can add chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter for a twist.
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, try different flavors! Add some almond extract instead of vanilla, or throw in some cocoa powder for chocolatey bites. You can even make a savory version by seasoning the batter with cheese and herbs.
You may read as well :
Oreo Cheesecake Bites
The Best Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites for Any Occasion
The Ultimate Guide to French Cookies: History, Types, and Recipes
FAQs
Can I use something other than oil for frying?
Certainly! You can use shortening or any other frying oil that you prefer, like canola oil.
What if I want to make these ahead of time?
I recommend frying them fresh for the best taste, but you can prepare the batter in advance and keep it in the fridge for a couple of hours before frying.
How do I know when the oil is ready?
When the oil reaches 375°F, a small drop of batter should sizzle when added to the pot. This means it’s ready for the fun!
Making Funnel Cake Bites is such a joy, and I hope you enjoy making them as much as we do! It’s those little moments in the kitchen that create lasting memories, and I can’t wait for your family to try this easy and delicious treat. Happy cooking!
Funnel Cake Bites
Equipment
- Dutch Oven or Stockpot
- Slotted Spoon
- Food Thermometer
- Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
For Frying
- Vegetable oil or shortening for frying, about 3 inches deep
Batter
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 eggs whisked until foamy
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 tbsp salted butter melted
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or canola oil
For Serving
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Heat oil or shortening in a Dutch oven or deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C), about 3 inches deep.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, sugar, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs until foamy. Add heavy cream, milk, vanilla extract, melted butter, and vegetable oil. Mix well.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth (some small lumps are okay).
- Using a ladle, carefully drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter into the hot oil. Fry until golden on one side, then flip and cook the other side.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.