Christmas Funnel Cake Bites Recipe

These Funnel Cake Bites are a delicious twist on the classic carnival treat, making it easy to enjoy bite-sized versions at home. Light, fluffy, and perfectly golden, these bites are topped with powdered sugar for a quick and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and a quick cooking time make these fun to whip up.
• Perfectly Sweet: Lightly sweet batter topped with powdered sugar and optional whipped cream or fruit.
• Bite-Sized Fun: Enjoy funnel cake in easy-to-eat bites that are great for sharing.

Ingredients

• 2 cups milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted
• Pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for topping
• Whipped cream or fruit, for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

1. Add the salt, baking soda, and sugar to the wet ingredients, stirring to combine.
2. Slowly fold in the flour, mixing until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter Bag

1. Pour the batter mixture into a gallon-sized Ziplock bag. Seal and set aside while you heat the oil.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

1. In a frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to reach about ½ inch deep.
2. Heat the oil on high for about 2 minutes, then reduce to medium heat.
3. Test the oil by dropping in a small bit of batter—if bubbles form around the edges, the oil is ready.

Step 5: Fry the Funnel Cake Bites

1. Cut a small hole in one corner of the Ziplock bag.
2. Gently squeeze out 1- to 2-inch circles of batter into the hot oil, cooking until the bottoms are golden brown.
3. Use a slotted spatula to carefully flip each bite, cooking until the other side is golden brown as well.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

1. Remove the funnel cake bites from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess grease.
2. While still warm, sprinkle with powdered sugar. Serve with whipped cream or fruit if desired.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Gallon-sized Ziplock bag
• Frying pan
• Slotted metal spatula
• Paper towels

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions: Funnel Cake Bites are best served fresh and warm. Dust with powdered sugar and top with whipped cream, fruit, or chocolate drizzle for extra indulgence.
Storage: Leftover bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to regain their crispiness.

Recipe Variations

• Cinnamon Sugar: Toss the bites in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar instead of powdered sugar for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Chocolate Dipped: Drizzle melted chocolate over the bites for an extra sweet touch.
• Fruit Topping: Serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas for added freshness.

Helpful Notes

• Check Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a steady medium heat to avoid burning the bites. If the oil is too hot, they’ll cook too quickly and may not be fully done inside.
• Use a Slotted Spatula: A slotted metal spatula helps safely flip and remove the bites from the hot oil.
• Cut a Small Hole: Cutting a small hole in the bag allows for controlled pouring of batter, making neat and consistent bites.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Alton Brown’s Frying Tip: Always monitor the oil temperature when frying to ensure even cooking and avoid sogginess.
Martha Stewart’s Batter Advice: Make sure to mix the batter until smooth, but avoid overmixing to keep the bites light and airy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a funnel instead of a Ziplock bag?
Yes! If you have a funnel, you can pour the batter through it into the hot oil to make traditional funnel cakes or bites.

How do I keep the bites crispy?
Serve immediately, and make sure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F) to create a crisp exterior without absorbing too much oil.

What if I don’t have baking soda?
Baking soda helps make the bites light and airy, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with 1½ teaspoons of baking powder.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make gluten-free funnel cake bites.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just double each ingredient to make a larger batch.

These Funnel Cake Bites are the ultimate quick and tasty treat, with a light, fluffy texture and a sweet powdered sugar finish. Perfect for any time you’re craving that classic fairground flavor! Enjoy!

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