Frying Funnel Cakes . . .

On a beautiful fall day, September 27th, we went to the opening day of the State Fair of Texas. We learned about hydroponic gardening in the greenhouse, saw the llamas, goats, lambs, swine and horses. We toured the Creative Arts building – where we saw the “Glue a Shoe” contest, the famous butter sculpture, award-winning quilts and all sort of handmade crafts. Walked the Midway and enjoyed our Fletcher’s Corny dogs. It was a picture perfect day!

2019 State Fair of Texas State Fair of Texas paradeMidway at the State Fair of TexasGlue a Shoe ContestGlue A ShoeThe Texas StarState Fair of Texas livestock Jams and Jellies of the State Fair of TexasParade horses

Our favorite Lone Star llama!Texas Llamas

Best of the State Fair of Texas . . . the Funnel Cakes!SFT Funnel Cale booth

Leaving the State fair, I wondered if we could make the Funnel Cakes in My Texas Kitchen?Frying Funnel Cakes

Frying Funnel Cakes!

Top Five Funnel Cake Questions:

  • Are there any special ingredients? Funnel cakes are made with simple, kitchen staples, milk and a couple of eggs.
  • How will I know if the oil is hot enough? The oil should heat to350º.
  • What should I serve them on? In keeping with the fair theme, serve the funnel cakes on red and white check paper.
  • Last but not least . . . Is it worth it to make funnel cakes at home? Yes, Funnel Cakes are so easy to make at home. They are delicious. Your friends and family will love the Funnel Cakes and you for making the treat!

Funnel Cakes

My version of one of our favorite State Fair of Texas fried foods!

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Servings 4 Funnel Cakes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 t. baking powder
  • 1/2 t. salt
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups Criscoº vegetable oil
  • 2 cups confectioners' sugar

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, add the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt; whisk together; set aside.

  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine the milk and eggs. Add to the dry ingredients; beat until smooth with a rotary beater.

  3. Add the vegetable shortening to an 8" cast iron skillet.

    Heat over medium-high heat to 350º.

  4. Covering the bottom of a funnel with your finger, pour a generous 1/2 cup batter into the funnel.

    Hold the end of the funnel close to the hot oil.

    Remove finger and release batter into the hot oil in a spiral shape.

    Fry until golden, about 3 minutes. With a spatula, carefully turn the cake over and cook for 1 minute.

    Drain on paper towels or a brown paper bag.

    Sprinkle with confectioners' sugar and serve!