Description
This homemade funnel cake recipe transforms the classic fairground favorite into a delightful treat made right in your Instant Pot. Featuring a golden, crispy exterior with a soft, airy interior, these funnel cakes are fried to perfection using the Instant Pot’s Sauté mode, then dusted with powdered sugar for that signature sweet finish. Perfect for dessert or a special snack, these funnel cakes offer nostalgic flavors made conveniently at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (2–3 cups, for frying)
For Topping
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode on high and pour in 2 to 3 cups of vegetable oil in the stainless steel insert. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and wait until the oil reaches approximately 375°F to ensure proper frying conditions.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well blended, creating a smooth mixture.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until a smooth, consistent batter forms without lumps.
- Prepare Batter for Frying: Transfer the batter into a squeeze bottle or a piping bag. This will help create the traditional funnel cake’s signature lacy pattern in the oil.
- Fry the Funnel Cakes: Carefully pipe or squeeze the batter into the hot oil in circular, lacy patterns. Fry each funnel cake for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until golden brown, using tongs to flip them carefully for even cooking.
- Drain and Repeat: Remove the fried funnel cakes from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Continue repeating the frying process with the remaining batter.
- Serve: Dust the freshly fried funnel cakes generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Always exercise caution when frying in the Instant Pot and never leave it unattended to ensure safety.
- For added flavor, you can mix a pinch of cinnamon into the batter before frying.
- Enhance your funnel cakes by serving them with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate sauce for a fun and delicious twist.
