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Funnel Cake Donut

4.8 from 141 reviews

Delight in homemade Funnel Cake Donuts, a crispy and golden treat perfect for a sweet breakfast or snack. These donuts can be fried traditionally for an authentic taste, or air-fried for a lighter version. Finished with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar, they pair beautifully with chocolate sauce, fruit preserves, or fresh fruit for dipping, offering a versatile and indulgent experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Frying & Finishing

  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Ground cinnamon (for cinnamon sugar coating)

Optional Dipping and Variations

  • Chocolate sauce for dipping
  • Fruit preserves for dipping
  • Fresh blueberries or mashed banana for variations

Instructions

  1. Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the oil is hot enough for frying the donuts to achieve a crispy texture.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt to combine all the dry components evenly.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
  4. Make Batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the donuts tender.
  5. Fry Donuts: Using a spoon or small scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the donuts turn a golden brown color.
  6. Drain Donuts: Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil.
  7. Coat Donuts: While still warm, dust the donuts with powdered sugar or roll them in cinnamon sugar for added flavor. Serve immediately for best taste.
  8. Air Fryer Preparation (Optional): Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
  9. Shape & Cook in Air Fryer: Drop spoonfuls of batter onto parchment rounds or silicone molds in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  10. Finish Air-Fried Donuts: After air frying, dust the donuts with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense and tough donuts.
  • If preferred, use an instant-read thermometer to maintain exact oil temperature for frying.
  • The donuts are best served fresh and warm for optimal texture and flavor.
  • Variations include adding fresh blueberries or mashed banana into the batter for a fruity twist.
  • Use parchment rounds or silicone molds in the air fryer to help maintain shape and prevent sticking.
  • For a healthier option, air frying reduces oil usage but still provides a crispy exterior.

Keywords: funnel cake donuts, fried donuts, air fryer donuts, cinnamon sugar donuts, homemade donuts, chocolate sauce dipping, fruit preserves, breakfast treat