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Funnel Cake Bites: A Carnival Classic Made Bite-Sized and Irresistible


  • Author: Tyla
  • Total Time: 57 minute
  • Yield: About 20 bites 1x

Description

You know those golden, powdery, crunchy-soft funnel cakes you get at the fair? Imagine all that magic, but in mini bite-sized form you can pop straight into your mouth. Funnel Cake Bites are the ultimate sweet treat — fluffy little puffs of fried dough, dusted in powdered sugar, and served with your favorite dipping sauce. No need to wait for the state fair. You can make these beauties at home in about 20 minutes flat. They’re playful, nostalgic, and downright delicious — and yes, dangerously snackable.


Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, but adds a nice flavor)

  • 1 large egg

  • 3/4 cup milk (whole or 2% is best)

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

  • Chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or berry jam (optional for dipping)


Instructions

Step 1: Heat Your Oil
Pour about 2 inches of oil into a deep skillet or saucepan and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if you have one — too hot and they’ll burn, too cool and they’ll soak up oil.

Step 2: Make the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, beat the egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and whisk until smooth. The batter should be pourable but not too runny — think pancake batter.

Step 3: Fry Time
Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, carefully drop dollops of batter (about 1 tablespoon each) into the hot oil. Fry in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook each bite for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 4: Sugar Shower
While the bites are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar. Don’t hold back — it’s part of the magic.

Step 5: Serve and Dip
Pile those beauties onto a serving plate and serve with a side of chocolate sauce, caramel, or raspberry jam for dipping (totally optional but highly recommended).

Notes

  • Serve warm, right out of the fryer, with a mountain of powdered sugar.

  • Offer a dipping bar with Nutella, marshmallow fluff, or strawberry sauce.

  • Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a next-level dessert.

 

  • Dust with cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar for a churro-style vibe.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10–15 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~90 calories
  • Protein: ~1g