Funnel Cake Bites Recipe
Introduction
Funnel cake bites are a delightful twist on the classic carnival favorite, perfect for bite-sized indulgence. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these treats dusted with powdered sugar make an irresistible snack or dessert.

Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (plus more for frying)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs until well blended.
- Step 3: Slowly stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Step 4: Pour vegetable oil into a saucepan to a depth of about 2 inches and heat over medium heat for 2 to 4 minutes until hot but not smoking.
- Step 5: Drop spoonfuls of batter carefully into the hot oil, keeping them small to create bite-sized pieces.
- Step 6: Fry each side for 60 to 90 seconds, or until the bites turn golden brown.
- Step 7: Use a slotted spoon to remove the bites and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Step 8: Immediately dust the warm funnel cake bites with powdered sugar.
- Step 9: Repeat with remaining batter until finished.
- Step 10: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious funnel cake bites!
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients.
- Try topping with cinnamon sugar or fresh fruit instead of powdered sugar.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure crispiness without absorbing too much oil.
Storage
Store funnel cake bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to keep them crisp. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and reheat in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain their crispness.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make funnel cake bites gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the baking powder is gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly but they will still be delicious.
What oil is best for frying funnel cake bites?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are ideal because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor, which helps achieve crispy, golden bites without imparting any unwanted taste.
Print
Funnel Cake Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 funnel cake bites 1x
Description
These Funnel Cake Bites are a delightful twist on the classic carnival treat, featuring crispy, golden-fried bites dusted with powdered sugar. Easy to make and perfect for snacking or dessert, they combine a light, airy batter with the irresistible crunch of deep-fried dough.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups All Purpose Flour
- 2 Tablespoons Sugar
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup Milk
- 2 Large Eggs
- 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil, plus extra for frying
Topping
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening and seasoning.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs until well combined, creating a smooth liquid base for the batter.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using slow, gentle motions until the batter is completely smooth without lumps.
- Heat Oil: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a saucepan and heat on medium heat for 2-4 minutes until the oil reaches optimal frying temperature.
- Drop Batter into Oil: Using a spoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, making sure to space them out to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry Until Golden: Cook the funnel cake bites for 60-90 seconds on each side until they develop a crisp, golden-brown exterior.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried bites from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb extra oil.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Immediately sprinkle powdered sugar over the warm funnel cake bites for a sweet finishing touch.
- Repeat: Continue frying the remaining batter in batches, repeating the process until all batter is used.
- Serve: Enjoy the funnel cake bites warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to get a crispy exterior; if too cool, the bites may absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Use a thermometer if available — ideal frying temperature is around 350°F (175°C).
- Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature and even cooking.
- Serve immediately for best taste, as the bites are crispest when fresh.
- Can be served with additional toppings like cinnamon sugar or chocolate sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: funnel cake bites, fried dessert, carnival food, easy dessert, sweet bites

