If you have a sweet tooth and love the crunchy, golden goodness of fairground treats, then this Funnel Cake Donut Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine those classic funnel cakes transformed into perfectly bite-sized donuts that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you want a fun weekend project, a festive treat, or something to surprise your loved ones with, these donuts bring all the joy and nostalgia of carnival days right into your kitchen. The balance of light batter, fried to golden perfection, and dusted with cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Funnel Cake Donut Recipe keeps things delightfully simple yet thoughtfully crafted, using straightforward ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the fluffy flour to the warm spices and rich vanilla, each element plays a critical role in creating that perfect bite.

1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and light texture essential to funnel cake donuts.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to the batter.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the donuts rise and become delightfully airy inside.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.
1/2 cup milk (whole preferred): Creates smoothness in the batter and contributes to tenderness.
1 large egg: Binds everything together for a cohesive batter.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a warm, comforting aroma and flavor.
Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures even, golden-fried surfaces with that signature crunch.
Powdered sugar for dusting: The classic finishing touch that adds sweetness and visual appeal.
Ground cinnamon (optional for cinnamon sugar coating): Adds a fragrant spice twist, elevating the flavor.
Chocolate sauce or fruit preserves for dipping (optional): Perfect companion sauces to customize your experience.
Fresh blueberries or mashed banana (optional): Great for mixing in or serving alongside for fun variations.

How to Make Funnel Cake Donut Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the frying oil

Start by heating vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer until it reaches 350°F (175°C). This temperature is crucial for getting that crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil, which keeps your funnel cake donuts light and delicious.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Making sure the dry ingredients are evenly combined sets the stage for an even rise and well-balanced flavor.

Step 3: Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. The vanilla will infuse a gentle sweetness and warmth throughout the batter.

Step 4: Form the batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the donuts tough instead of tender and airy.

Step 5: Fry the donuts

Using a spoon or small scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, turning once the edges turn golden brown. This frying process is the magic that gives the donuts their characteristic crunch outside and softness inside.

Step 6: Drain and dust

Remove the cooked funnel cake donuts with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil. While they’re still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar or toss them in a cinnamon sugar blend for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 7: Air fryer option

If you prefer a lighter version, preheat your air fryer to 375°F, lightly spray the basket with oil, and spoon the batter onto parchment rounds or silicone molds. Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

How to Serve Funnel Cake Donut Recipe

Garnishes

While a dusting of powdered sugar is the classic finish, don’t hesitate to get creative. Try rolling your funnel cake donuts in cinnamon sugar for a warm, spicy kick. You can also drizzle melted chocolate or a bright fruit glaze to elevate your presentation and flavor experience.

Side Dishes

Pair these donuts with fresh fruit like ripe blueberries or mashed bananas to add freshness and natural sweetness. For a brunch spread, they also go wonderfully alongside creamy yogurt or a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your funnel cake donuts stacked on a pretty plate with small bowls of dipping sauces, like chocolate, caramel, or berry preserves. For special occasions, pop a skewer through a few for mini donut kebabs—fun and festive for parties or family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover funnel cake donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them from losing their crispness, avoid stacking them tightly, and include a sheet of parchment paper between layers.

Freezing

If you want to save these treats for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They keep well for up to 3 months, making it easy to enjoy a quick sweet fix whenever you want.

Reheating

The best way to bring back that fresh-from-the-fryer crispiness is to reheat frozen or stored donuts in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can make the texture less appealing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for this Funnel Cake Donut Recipe?

All-purpose flour works best to create the ideal texture, but you can substitute with cake flour for a lighter donut or whole wheat pastry flour for a nuttier flavor. Keep in mind this may slightly change the texture and taste.

Is it necessary to fry the donuts, or can I bake them instead?

Frying is traditional and gives the donuts their signature crispy crust. However, the air fryer method mentioned is a great alternative for a lower-fat option. Baking them in the oven tends to yield a denser texture and less crispness.

Can I add fruit like blueberries or bananas directly into the batter?

Yes! Adding fresh blueberries or mashed bananas into the batter can add bursts of flavor and moisture. Just fold them in gently to avoid overmixing and making the batter too wet.

What is the best oil to use for frying funnel cake donuts?

Vegetable oil or canola oil with a high smoke point is ideal because it heats evenly and doesn’t impart extra flavors. Avoid using olive oil or butter for frying to keep the taste neutral and texture perfect.

How do I know when the oil is ready for frying the donuts?

The oil should be heated to around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small bit of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the surface promptly without browning too fast, it’s ready.

Final Thoughts

This Funnel Cake Donut Recipe is a delightful way to bring a bit of fairground magic into your home anytime you crave a sweet, crispy, melt-in-your-mouth treat. Whether fried traditionally or air-fried for a lighter touch, these donuts are versatile, fun to make, and absolutely delicious. So grab those simple ingredients and get ready to enjoy some seriously scrumptious bites. You deserve it!

Funnel Cake Donut Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 7 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8–10 funnel cake donuts 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in the crispy, golden goodness of Funnel Cake Donuts, a fun twist on the classic fair treat. These airy, fluffy donuts are fried to perfection and can be enjoyed dusted with powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or dipped in chocolate sauce or fruit preserves. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these donuts also offer variations with fresh blueberries or mashed banana for added flavor.

Instructions

Heat the oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for frying the donuts safely at the perfect temperature.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning agents.
Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the batter light and airy.
Fry the donuts: Using a spoon or small scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry them in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
Drain donuts: Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or a wire rack to remove excess oil.
Add toppings: While the donuts are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar or roll them in cinnamon sugar. Serve immediately for the best texture and warm taste.
Air fryer method (optional): Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Lightly spray the basket with oil, drop spoonfuls of batter onto parchment rounds or silicone molds, air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, then dust with powdered sugar.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter; it should be slightly lumpy to ensure a light donut texture.
Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked donuts.
Use whole milk for a richer flavor and softer texture, but low-fat milk can be substituted.
Try variations by folding fresh blueberries into the batter or mixing mashed banana for different flavors.
Serve freshly fried or air-fried for best taste; leftovers can be reheated in the oven to regain crispness.
Be cautious when frying; use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature for safety and optimal results.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
Method: Frying or Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 donut
Calories: 220 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 150 mg
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 4 g
Cholesterol: 40 mg

Keywords: funnel cake donuts, fried donuts, air fryer donuts, easy donut recipe, cinnamon sugar donuts, homemade donuts, breakfast donuts