Dessert

Funnel Cake Fries Recipe

ByLana Polati November 30, 2025November 30, 2025

Introduction

Funnel cake fries are a fun and tasty twist on the classic fairground treat. Crispy, golden strands of fried batter dusted with powdered sugar make for an irresistible snack or dessert that’s easy to make at home.

A white plate lined with paper printed like a newspaper holds many curly, golden-brown funnel cakes dusted heavily with white powdered sugar. On the right side of the plate, there is a white sauce dish filled with glossy red strawberry sauce. At the top edge of the plate, three fresh, bright red strawberries with green leaves rest against the funnel cakes. The plate is set on a white marbled surface with a few scattered whole strawberries around it. 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 (about 1½ to 2 inches deep)

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, and granulated sugar until well combined.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and blended.
Step 3: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients while whisking continuously until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 4: Transfer the batter into a squeeze bottle, piping bag, or resealable plastic bag with a small corner cut off for easy dispensing.
Step 5: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to a depth of 1½ to 2 inches, and bring the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Step 6: Carefully pipe the batter into the hot oil in straight lines, cutting off the stream with your finger or scissors. Fry without overcrowding the pan.
Step 7: Cook the fries for 20 to 30 seconds on one side until golden brown, then flip them to cook the other side evenly.
Step 8: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fries and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 9: Repeat with the remaining batter until all the funnel cake fries are cooked.
Step 10: Serve hot, dusted with powdered sugar and optionally with granulated sugar, whipped cream, fresh strawberries, or sauces like caramel, chocolate, or strawberry for dipping.

Tips & Variations

Use a squeeze bottle or piping bag for more control and uniform fries.
Adjust frying temperature to maintain a steady 350°F; too hot will burn the fries, too low will make them greasy.
Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice twist.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauces to add variety and extra flavor.

Storage

Funnel cake fries are best enjoyed fresh and crispy. 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 air fryer to restore some crispness before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a cardboard box lined with printed paper filled with about eight golden-brown churros covered in sugar. On top of the churros, there are three bright red strawberry slices and some drops of red sauce. In the background, a white plate holds several more churros, and a clear glass bowl contains fresh whole strawberries with green leaves. In the foreground, there is a small white bowl filled with a thick red dipping sauce. All items are placed 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 a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Give it a good whisk before frying to recombine ingredients.

What oil is best for frying funnel cake fries?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or shortening work well because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor, ensuring crispy fries without overpowering tastes.