Lacy Funnel Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 4 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

Delight in crispy, lacy funnel cakes with a dusting of powdered sugar, perfect for fairs or festive gatherings, offering a sweet, crunchy treat for all ages.

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Ingredients

  • vegetable oil (for deep frying)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
  • 2 Tbsp. granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 c. milk
  • 1 1/3 c. all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer to 375°F.
  2. Mix all ingredients, except confectioners sugar, until smooth.
  3. Select a funnel with a 1/2-inch opening at the small end.
  4. Swirl batter into hot oil, starting in the center and working outward to form a 6-inch lacy spiral.
  5. Fry 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
  6. Drain on paper towels and keep warm in a 200°F oven if desired.
  7. Sprinkle with confectioners sugar before serving. Optional: top with fruit flavors.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, make sure not to overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay. If you don't have a funnel, a squeeze bottle with a large opening can also work. You can substitute almond milk for regular milk for a different flavor. Ensure the oil is at the right temperature to prevent the cakes from absorbing too much oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the funnel cakes warm, dusted with confectioners sugar. For added flavor, try drizzling with chocolate or caramel sauce, or serve with fresh berries on the side. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee, such as a slice of Cream Cheese And Raspberry Coffee Cake for a delightful brunch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover funnel cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lacy Funnel Cake contains roughly 157 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (18% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1378mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).

157 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.4g 3% DV
Total Fat 10.9g 14% DV
Carbs 15g 5% DV
Fiber 1.6g 6% DV
Sugar 0.9g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1378.1mg 60% DV
Potassium 103.3mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 17.3mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 165.8mcg 18% DV
Vitamin C 12.1mg 13% DV
Calcium 66.2mg 5% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

You can experiment with different flours, but all-purpose flour yields the best results for texture and flavor. Whole wheat flour may result in a denser cake, while gluten-free blends can also work if you're avoiding gluten. Adjust liquid as necessary.

What should I do if the batter is too thick?

If your batter appears too thick, gradually add a bit more milk until you achieve a pourable consistency. Be careful not to add too much at once; a little goes a long way in adjusting the texture.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It's best to use the batter immediately after mixing for optimal results. However, you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and mix them with wet ingredients just before frying to save time.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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