Crispy Mini Powdered Sugar Funnel Cake Bites
These crispy mini funnel cake bites taste just like the ones from the county fair but are easier to make at home. They are quick, crunchy, and perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons (16g) cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- ¾ cup (180ml) whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable or canola oil, for frying (about 4 cups)
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar, or more to taste
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until no lumps remain.
- In a separate small bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick, about the consistency of pancake batter. Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Pour enough oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to reach about 2 inches deep. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor.
- Carefully pour the batter into a squeeze bottle (or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off).
- Working in batches of 6-8 bites, squeeze about 1 tablespoon of batter per bite directly into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot.
- Fry for 60-90 seconds, then flip using a slotted spoon or spider strainer. Cook for another 60-90 seconds until deep golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the cooked bites to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain for about 30 seconds.
- While still warm, generously dust the bites with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve. Dust again right before serving if desired.
- Serve immediately. Best enjoyed within 10 minutes of frying.
Notes
Keep oil temperature steady between 340-360°F (170-182°C). Do not skip the cornstarch for extra crispiness. Work in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Let batter rest for 5 minutes before frying. Test one bite first to check oil temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 8 bites
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 14
- Sodium: 180
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 5
Keywords: funnel cake bites, mini funnel cake, powdered sugar, crispy, easy dessert, fair food