Funnel cakes are one of those treats that instantly remind us of fairs, carnivals, and festivals. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and dusted with powdered sugar, they are truly irresistible. The good news is you don’t have to wait for a fair to enjoy them. You can actually make them right at home with an ingredient you probably already have in your pantry, pancake mix.
In this blog, We’ll walk you through step-by-step how to make funnel cake with pancake mix, along with tips, variations, and FAQs. Let’s get started!
Why Use Pancake Mix for Funnel Cake?
Traditionally, funnel cake batter is made from scratch using flour, eggs, sugar, and milk. But if you want a quick and easy version, pancake mix is your best friend. Pancake mix already contains flour, baking powder, and some flavoring, which makes the process faster and more convenient. All you need to do is add a few extra ingredients, and you’ll have delicious funnel cakes in no time.
Ingredients Required for Funnel Cake with Pancake Mix
Here’s a simple list of ingredients for making funnel cakes with pancake mix:
- 2 cups of pancake mix
- 1 cup of milk (add more if needed for thinner batter)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works best)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Funnel Cake with Pancake Mix
Follow these simple steps to make your funnel cakes crispy and golden brown:
Step 1: Prepare the Oil
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2–3 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer if possible. If you don’t have one, test the oil by dropping a small bit of batter – if it sizzles and floats, the oil is ready.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. The batter should be smooth but slightly runny, similar to cake batter. If it feels too thick, add a little extra milk.
Step 3: Get Your Funnel or Squeeze Bottle Ready
To create the iconic swirly pattern of a funnel cake, you can use:
- A funnel (cover the hole with your finger, pour batter inside, and release over oil).
- A squeeze bottle (like a ketchup bottle).
- A piping bag or even a large Ziploc bag with a corner cut off.
Step 4: Fry the Funnel Cake
Carefully pour the batter into the hot oil in a circular motion, crisscrossing back and forth to form a lattice-like pattern. Fry for about 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Use tongs to remove the funnel cake from the oil. Place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle generously with powdered sugar, and your funnel cake is ready!
Tips for the Best Funnel Cake
- Consistent Batter: Make sure your batter isn’t too thick or too watery. A pourable consistency works best.
- Hot Oil is Key: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the funnel cake will absorb too much oil and turn greasy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry one cake at a time so each one cooks evenly.
- Toppings: Aside from powdered sugar, try chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, whipped cream, or fresh strawberries.
Variations to Try
- Cinnamon Sugar Funnel Cake – Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar instead of powdered sugar.
- Chocolate Funnel Cake – Add a little cocoa powder to your pancake mix for a chocolate twist.
- Mini Funnel Cakes – Make smaller ones for bite-sized treats.
- Savory Funnel Cakes – Skip the sugar and top with cheese, jalapenos, or even shredded chicken for a fun twist.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to make funnel cake with pancake mix right at home! With just a few simple ingredients and some hot oil, you can enjoy this carnival classic anytime you want. Whether you keep it simple with powdered sugar or load it up with chocolate and fruit, funnel cakes are always a crowd-pleaser.
So next time you crave a sweet treat, skip the fairgrounds and whip up some funnel cakes in your own kitchen – quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
FAQ’s
1. Can I use any brand of pancake mix?
Yes! Any brand of pancake mix will work, whether it’s Aunt Jemima, Bisquick, or store brand. Just make sure it’s the “complete” type that only needs eggs and milk.
2. Can I make funnel cake without a funnel?
Absolutely. You can use a squeeze bottle, piping bag, or even a measuring cup with a spout. The goal is just to drizzle the batter in swirls.
3. How do I store leftover funnel cakes?
Funnel cakes taste best fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for crispiness.
4. Is pancake mix better than making batter from scratch?
Using pancake mix is faster and easier, but if you want a more authentic fair-style funnel cake, making the batter from scratch can give you slightly better texture.
5. Can I make them in an air fryer?
Technically, yes, but they won’t be as crispy as deep-fried funnel cakes. You’d need to drizzle the batter onto parchment paper and air fry at 375°F.