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No-Fry Funnel Cake Bites

This recipe transforms simple pantry ingredients into crispy, golden ribbons of batter that resemble miniature funnel cake bites. The batter is cooked on the stovetop until bubbling and crispy, resulting in an airy, slightly chewy final texture with a delightful crunch.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour sifted
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • pinch salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for batter and frying

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Frying pan or skillet
  • Slotted Spoon or Tongs
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl until evenly combined.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then stir in the milk, vanilla, and vegetable oil until smooth and cohesive.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; do not overmix to keep the batter light.
  4. Heat a lightly oiled skillet or frying pan over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  5. Pour a thin stream of batter into the pan, creating a spiral or ribbon shape, or simply flowing into random shapes—these will turn into crispy, irregular bites.
  6. Allow the batter to cook until bubbling and golden around the edges, about 2–3 minutes.
  7. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to carefully flip each piece, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until evenly golden and crispy.
  8. Transfer the cooked crispy ribbons to paper towels to drain excess oil and keep them crispy.
  9. Repeat the pouring and cooking process with the remaining batter, adjusting heat as necessary to prevent burning.
  10. Serve the funnel cake bites warm, optionally sprinkled with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey for extra sweetness.

Notes

Make sure to keep an eye on the temperature to achieve crispy but not burnt bites. The batter should be poured in thin ribbons for maximum crunch and visual appeal.