Funnel Cake, Air-Fried: Is It Possible?

Funnel cakes are a sweet, crunchy, and delicious pastry that is usually served at carnivals and fairs. They are typically deep-fried and drizzled with oil, but an air fryer can be used to make a lighter version of this treat. Air-fried funnel cakes are a healthier alternative that still delivers the same soft, crunchy texture without all the grease.

Ingredients and alternatives

Funnel cakes are a type of fried dough, similar to doughnuts, fritters, and elephant ears. They are typically made by pouring batter through a funnel into hot oil in a swirling shape. However, when making funnel cakes in an air fryer, a few adjustments are needed.

The key ingredients for making funnel cakes in an air fryer are:

• Flour: All-purpose flour is typically used, but you can also use almond flour or whole wheat flour.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar is used in the batter, and the cakes are typically topped with powdered sugar. You can also use cane or coconut sugar in the batter.
• Baking Powder: This gives the funnel cake batter a lift.
• Salt: Kosher salt is preferred if available.
• Milk: You can use dairy milk or alternative milk like cashew or oat milk.
• Eggs: If you don't want to use eggs, you can use an egg replacement like ground flaxseed, applesauce, mashed bananas, or yogurt.
• Vanilla: Pure vanilla extract is commonly used, but you can replace it with good-quality maple syrup.
• Oil: Vegetable or canola oil is used for frying the funnel cakes. When using an air fryer, you can use cooking spray instead of oil.
• Greek Yogurt: Some recipes use Greek yogurt instead of milk to create a higher-protein batter.
• Sweeteners: You can use different sweeteners like erythritol or stevia instead of sugar.
• Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try low-fat whipped cream, chocolate syrup, maple syrup, honey, cinnamon-sugar mixture, chopped nuts, or fresh fruit.

Cooking methods

Funnel cakes are typically deep-fried, but they can be made in an air fryer for a lighter, healthier version of the classic recipe. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make funnel cakes in an air fryer:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of flour (all-purpose)
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt (kosher, if possible)
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 egg
• Powdered sugar (optional)
• Cooking spray

Method:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Mix in the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
• Prepare your air fryer tray or basket. If you have an oven-style air fryer, you can use parchment paper liners. Otherwise, spray your tray or basket liberally with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• Pour the batter into a piping bag or a plastic bag with the tip cut off. You can also use a squeeze plastic bottle.
• Preheat your air fryer to between 325°F and 400°F for 5 minutes.
• Spread your batter onto the air fryer tray or basket. If using a basket, you may need to cook the funnel cakes in batches. Set the timer for 3 minutes.
• Flip the funnel cakes halfway through the cooking process.
• Repeat with the remaining batter.
• Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.
• Serve and enjoy!

Note: It is important to ensure that the parchment paper does not touch or get close to the heating element of your air fryer. Always refer to the manufacturer's safety instructions before attempting this recipe.

Toppings and serving suggestions

Air fryer funnel cakes are a great summer dessert and can be served with a variety of toppings.

A classic topping is powdered sugar, which adds a delightful sweetness and a nostalgic connection to childhood fairs. You can also mix it with cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a flavoured sugar. This can be combined with other toppings for a more decadent experience.

Chocolate and caramel sauces are a great option for those looking for a familiar flavour. During the summer months, fruity flavours like blueberry and strawberry are a perfect addition. In the fall, experiment with seasonal flavours such as pumpkin spice and toffee.

Fresh fruit is another popular choice, with strawberries and bananas being a refreshing contrast to the cake's sweetness. For a colourful topping, use a medley of mixed berries. Baked cinnamon apples are a great option for a cozy, aromatic touch.

Fruit fillings and compotes are a good alternative if fresh fruit is not available. These toppings add a burst of fruity flavour and can be paired with ice cream or whipped cream. Some combinations to try are strawberry shortcake, apple pie, or blueberry lemon curd funnel cake.

Speaking of ice cream, why not turn your funnel cake into a sundae? Add a scoop of ice cream, some chocolate sauce, and a maraschino cherry. Or, for something different, try a scoop of nutty praline or fruity sorbet.

Whipped cream is a delightful addition, providing a cool, luscious contrast to the crispy cake. It can be used on its own or alongside powdered sugar. You could even make your own whipped cream and add a flavour like cinnamon or espresso.

Nutella is another beloved topping, with its creamy texture perfect for drizzling. Pair it with fresh bananas or strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream, or sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts for a sophisticated touch.

For a decadent dessert, crushed Oreo cookie pieces can be added for a rich chocolatey crunch. Start with a dusting of crushed Oreos, then add a scoop of cookies and cream ice cream, and finish with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Finally, don't be afraid to get creative with unique toppings. Candy toppings like sprinkles or gummy bears bring an exciting mix of textures and flavours. Or try something savoury, like bacon bits and maple syrup, or cheese sauce and nacho fixings.

Nutritional information

Funnel cakes are usually deep-fried and covered in powdered sugar, making them a high-calorie treat. However, air-fried funnel cakes are a lighter alternative, with one recipe claiming to have just 66 calories each.

A typical funnel cake with sugar (6" diameter) contains 38.8g of carbohydrates, 15.5g of fat, 6.8g of protein, and 322 calories. East Side Mario's funnel cake has even higher nutritional values, with 181g of carbohydrates, 76g of fat, 14g of protein, and 344 calories.

Air-fried funnel cakes can be made with a variety of ingredients, including flour, baking powder, salt, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Some recipes also call for Greek yogurt and powdered sugar. One recipe for air-fried funnel cakes provides the following nutritional information:

Serving Size: 1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 275

Total Fat: 2g

Saturated Fat: 1g

Unsaturated Fat: 1g

Cholesterol: 50mg

Sodium: 694mg

Carbohydrates: 57g

Fiber: 1g

Sugar: 30g

Protein: 6g

It's important to note that the nutritional content of air-fried funnel cakes can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the serving size. Additionally, some recipes may be more or less sweet than others, affecting the sugar content.

Recipe reviews

The Spruce Eats

> "So. Very. Delicious. Never in a million years would I think to have funnel cake at home. And without the hassle of frying? Spectacular. Though the thicker batter makes for a different texture, it's necessary for cooking in the air fryer. But yummy fried-dough goodness is still the end result." —Renae Wilson

Food by the Gram

> "It wasn’t terrible, but it tasted more like a pancake with powdered sugar on it, than a funnel cake. It seemed a bit heavy for a funnel cake."

> "Thanks for sharing this amazing recipe. My family loved it. I will be sharing this recipe with my friends. Hope they will like it."

> "How can someone make 12 funnel cakes with this recipe? It barely made 2."

> "I piped it into 12 little cakes about the size of a cookie, but you can make them larger of course!"

Nutrisystem

> "One serving contains just 160 calories. If you’re on Nutrisystem, you can count this sweet treat as one SmartCarb and one Extra."

Grandbaby Cakes

> "This was an excellent treat! I checked all the recipes and liked yours the best, I’m a vanilla freak. The next time I will cook a bit longer, I was afraid I’d burn them. Thanks for sharing!"

> "Oh so delicious, these were a great hit in my house and they were easier to make than I expected!"

> "This funnel cake looks gorgeous. I will soon try your recipe. Thanks for sharing."

> "A fun, alternative dessert for me, haven't made this before and never tried it, a nice change in density from regular cake! Thank you!"

> "Now I have no excuse to stalk out local fairs for their funnel cake as I can make it at home thanks to this recipe!"

> "I love when I can recreate my favorite recipes from the comfort of my home, and this recipe was no exception! Turned out light, fluffy and delicious!"

> "I had never made funnel cakes at home before I tried your recipe and these were surprisingly easy to make! They also turned out way better than the funnel cakes I’ve gotten at local fairs!"

Frequently asked questions