Description
This Homemade Funnel Cake recipe uses the Instant Pot as a deep fryer, delivering crispy, golden funnel cakes with a soft interior. Made with a simple batter of milk, eggs, flour, and vanilla, the cakes are fried to perfection and dusted with powdered sugar for a classic carnival treat that can be enjoyed anytime at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 4 eggs
- 4 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups flour
Frying and Toppings
- Vegetable oil, enough to fill 2 inches of the Instant Pot
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Fill the Instant Pot with vegetable oil to a depth of 2 inches. Set it to sauté mode and use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Heat the oil to 350°F, which should take about 20-30 minutes.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and water until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Whisk the sugar, salt, and baking powder into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
- Finish the Batter: Gradually mix in the flour, stirring continuously until a thick, smooth batter with no lumps forms.
- Prep Piping Bag: Once the oil reaches the desired temperature, pour the batter into a gallon-sized zip lock bag and snip off a small corner or use a piping or squeeze bottle to control the flow.
- Fry the Funnel Cake: Squeeze the batter into the hot oil in random, overlapping lines to form a freeform funnel cake. Leave space for the batter to expand. Cook for about 5 minutes until golden, then carefully flip it and cook for an additional 5 minutes on the other side.
- Drain and Cool: Remove the funnel cake using tongs or a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil and cool slightly.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooled, dust the funnel cake generously with powdered sugar. Add desired toppings and serve immediately to enjoy the ideal crispy texture.
Notes
- Ensure the oil is maintained at 350°F for even frying and a crispy crust.
- Using a piping bag or squeeze bottle helps create uniform, elegant shapes.
- Be cautious when flipping to avoid oil splatters and to keep the funnel cake intact.
- Consume funnel cakes shortly after frying for the best texture and flavor.
- Customize toppings by adding fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate sauce if desired.
