Mini funnel cake bites are the perfect deep-fried dessert—crispy, sweet, and dusted with powdered sugar. A nostalgic fair treat made easy at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Funnel Cake Bites are everything you love about classic funnel cakes in an easy-to-make, shareable size. Here’s why they’ll be your new favorite:
- Quick and easy to make with basic pantry ingredients
- Golden and crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy inside
- A fun treat for kids and adults alike
- Perfect for parties, festivals-at-home, or casual snacking
- No funnel needed—just drop and fry
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until foamy.
- Add milk and vanilla extract to the eggs, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a smooth batter forms.
- Heat about ¾ inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil.
- Fry until golden brown on one side, then flip and cook the other side until equally golden.
- Remove bites with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- While still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings And Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: Approx. 288 kcal per serving
Variations
- Berry Bliss: Serve with a side of strawberry or raspberry sauce for dipping.
- Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle with melted chocolate or Nutella.
- Cinnamon Roll Style: Add a cream cheese glaze drizzle on top.
- Savory Version: Omit sugar and spices and serve with cheese dips.
- Pumpkin Spice: Replace cinnamon and nutmeg with pumpkin spice for a fall twist.
Storage/Reheating
Storage:
- Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
- Reheat in an oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes to maintain crispness. Avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the batter for up to 24 hours. Stir before frying.
What oil is best for frying?
Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil all work well due to their high smoke points.
Do I need a deep fryer?
Nope! A deep skillet or saucepan with a thermometer will do the trick.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for similar results.
Why are my bites absorbing too much oil?
Your oil may not be hot enough. Keep it around 375°F for best results.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Frying is key to achieving the classic funnel cake texture, but you can try air frying for a lighter version.
What if I don’t have a cookie scoop?
Use a tablespoon or small spoon to portion the batter into the oil.
Are these safe for kids to make?
Kids can help with mixing and dusting, but adults should handle the frying.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Make sure the batter isn’t too wet and that the oil stays hot enough.
Can I freeze Funnel Cake Bites?
Yes, freeze after frying and reheat in an oven to keep them crisp.
Conclusion
Funnel Cake Bites are the bite-sized bliss you didn’t know you needed. With their fluffy interior, golden crunch, and irresistible dusting of powdered sugar, they’re a fun and festive dessert you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Bring the magic of the fair to your own kitchen and let the snacking begin!
Print
Funnel Cake Bites
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mini funnel cake bites are the perfect deep-fried dessert—crispy, sweet, and dusted with powdered sugar. A nostalgic fair treat made easy at home!
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
1½ cups milk
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Vegetable oil, for frying
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Beat eggs until foamy in a large bowl.
Mix in milk and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Combine dry ingredients into wet mixture to form smooth batter.
Heat ¾ inch of oil in a skillet to 375°F (190°C).
Drop batter by spoonfuls into oil.
Fry until golden on one side, flip and repeat.
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Dust with powdered sugar.
Serve immediately.
Notes
For added flavor, serve with chocolate sauce, caramel drizzle, or fruit compote. Best enjoyed fresh and warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American