Funnel Cake Bites / Donut Holes Recipe

Introducing Funnel Cake Bites: A Mini Delight for Your Taste Buds!

Craving a delicious, bite-sized treat that combines the crispy goodness of funnel cake with the convenience of donut holes? Look no further! These Funnel Cake Bites, or as we like to call them, mini drops of heaven, are incredibly easy to whip up and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Cooking time :

The cooking time for your Funnel Cake Bites or Donut Holes will depend on a few factors, including the size of the bites, the temperature of your oil, and your desired level of crispiness. However, here’s a general guideline:

1. Frying Time:
   • Fry each side for approximately 1-2 minutes or until they achieve a golden-brown color.
   • Use a slotted spoon or tongs to carefully flip the bites halfway through the frying process.
2. Internal Temperature:
   • Since these are small bites, they cook relatively quickly. The internal temperature should reach around 190°F (88°C), ensuring that they are cooked through and have a nice, fluffy texture on the inside.
3. Visual Cues:
   • Keep an eye on the color. When the bites turn golden brown, they are likely done. Adjust the time as needed to achieve the desired level of crispiness.
4. Oil Temperature:
   • Maintain the oil temperature at around 375°F (190°C) throughout the frying process for consistent and efficient cooking.

Remember to fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and affect the cooking time. It’s always a good idea to test one or two bites initially to fine-tune the process.

Additionally, keep an eye on the bites as they fry, and adjust the time accordingly. Once they’re done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil before dusting with powdered sugar.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups pancake mix (preferably just-add-water mix)
• 3/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Oil for frying (enough to fill a pan and maintain a temperature of 375°F)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oil:
   • Choose a deep pan suitable for frying and fill it with enough oil to submerge the bites. Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C). You can use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature.
2. Prepare Batter:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix, water, vanilla extract, and sugar. Use a whisk to mix the ingredients thoroughly until a thick batter forms. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
3. Frying:
   • Once the oil is sufficiently hot, take a tablespoon of the batter and carefully drop it into the oil. You can use another spoon to help scoop the batter into the oil. Be cautious to avoid splashing.
   • Fry the bites until they are golden brown on one side, then carefully flip them to fry the other side. This should only take a couple of minutes per side.
   • Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the bites from the oil, allowing any excess oil to drip off.
4. Drain and Dust:
   • Place the fried bites on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any residual oil.
   • While the bites are still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar. The heat will help the sugar adhere to the bites, creating a sweet and slightly crispy coating.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • These funnel cake bites are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve them as a delightful treat for breakfast, dessert, or a snack.

Here are some additional tips to ensure success when making  Funnel Cake Bites or Donut Holes:

1. Consistent Batter Thickness:
   • Aim for a consistent thickness in your batter. This helps ensure even cooking and a uniform texture across all the bites.
2. Oil Temperature Control:
   • Use a reliable thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Maintaining a consistent temperature around 375°F (190°C) will result in crispy, golden bites.
3. Fry in Batches:
   • Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent the bites from sticking together and to maintain an even cooking temperature. Fry in small batches for the best results.
4. Use a Cookie Scoop or Spoon:
   • A cookie scoop or spoon can help you portion out the batter easily and create uniform-sized bites.
5. Test with a Small Batch:
   • Before frying a large batch, test a small amount of batter to make sure you’re satisfied with the flavor, texture, and cooking time.
6. Powdered Sugar Application:
   • Dust the powdered sugar onto the bites while they are still warm. This allows the sugar to stick to the bites and creates a delicious sweet coating.
7. Experiment with Toppings:
   • Get creative with toppings! Aside from powdered sugar, consider drizzling with chocolate or caramel sauce, or even adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
8. Serve Immediately:
   • Funnel Cake Bites are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve them immediately after dusting with powdered sugar for the ultimate indulgence.
9. Safety Precautions:
   • Be cautious when working with hot oil. Use a slotted spoon or tongs for handling the bites and a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Keep a close eye on the cooking process at all times.

10. Adjust Consistency if Needed:

    • If you find the batter too thick or too thin, you can adjust the consistency by adding a bit more water or pancake mix, respectively.