Funnel Cakes

You have either eaten or seen these fun, fried funnel cakes at carnivals and fairs. They're those squiggly looking crisp pastries, covered in powdered sugar, that people are willing to stand in long lines for.

Recipe Ingredients:

Vegetable oil or shortening for frying
1 1/2 cups sifted powdered sugar (or granulated sugar)
2 to 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
3 large eggs
2 1/4 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Large funnel for dispensing batter

Cooking Directions:

1. Preheat the oil or shortening in a deep-fat fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar and cinnamon, mixing well; set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, milk and vanilla, mixing well.
4. Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt together in another bowl. Stir the flour mixture into the egg mixture until batter is smooth.
5. Hold your finger over the funnel opening, fill with 3/4 cup of the batter. Place your hand over the oil and carefully remove your finger. Scribble and criss-cross the filling into the hot oil. Fry until golden on both sides. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
6. Dust with the powdered/sugar mixture. Repeat the process until all of the batter is used.

Makes 8 funnel cakes.