Introduction

Funnel cake fries are a fun and irresistible twist on the classic carnival treat. These crispy, golden strips of fried batter are perfect for sharing and easy to make at home. With a dusting of powdered sugar and your favorite toppings, they’re sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

A large white plate filled with many long and twisted golden brown funnel cake fries, lightly dusted with powdered sugar, covers the entire surface of the plate. In the center, there is a white sauce boat filled with thick, bright red strawberry sauce with visible fruit pieces. Next to the sauce boat are two fresh halved strawberries showing their red inside and green leafy tops. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with a small cloth with black polka dots partially visible in the corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

2 eggs
1 cup whole milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vegetable oil or shortening, for frying

Instructions

Step 1: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar until well combined.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients while whisking continuously until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
Step 4: Transfer the batter into a squeeze bottle, piping bag, or plastic bag. If using a plastic bag, snip off one corner to create a small opening.

Step 5: Heat the oil in a deep skillet to about 350°F, filling it to a depth of 1½ to 2 inches.
Step 6: Carefully squeeze the batter in straight lines into the hot oil, cutting the batter stream with your finger or scissors as you go. Fill the skillet but do not overcrowd.
Step 7: Fry the batter strips until the bottom side turns golden brown, about 20 to 30 seconds, then flip to cook the other side.

Step 8: Remove the cooked funnel cake fries with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 9: Repeat the frying process with the remaining batter.
Step 10: Serve hot, dusted generously with powdered sugar or granulated sugar. Add whipped cream, sliced strawberries, or your favorite sauces such as caramel or chocolate for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for crispy fries that aren’t greasy.
Swap whole milk with buttermilk for a slightly tangier flavor and tender texture.

Try topping your funnel cake fries with fresh berries or a drizzle of your favorite fruit sauce for a fruity twist.

Storage

Funnel cake fries are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat briefly in a hot oven or toaster oven to regain some crunch, but avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

A white takeout box lined with black and white printed paper holds a pile of golden-brown, crispy fried dough sticks sprinkled lightly with sugar. Mixed in are fresh bright red strawberry slices, some dipped in a thick red strawberry sauce that glistens on top. In the background, a clear glass bowl is filled with whole fresh strawberries, and a white divided serving dish holds more fried dough sticks next to a small white sauce container filled with the same red strawberry sauce. The entire scene sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 2 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Give it a good whisk before frying to ensure it’s smooth.

What oil is best for frying funnel cake fries?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for frying. They keep the flavor light and handle high temperatures well.