Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Funnel Cake Recipe
If you’re looking for a sweet treat that satisfies your cravings without the gluten, you’ll love this gluten-free funnel cake recipe. It’s not just easy to make; it’s incredibly delicious!
The crispy, golden exterior gives way to a soft, fluffy interior that melts in your mouth. I can’t resist drizzling it with powdered sugar or adding fresh berries.
Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy night in or a fun gathering with friends. This recipe guarantees everyone can enjoy a classic carnival favorite without worrying about gluten.
Trust me, you won’t miss the traditional version!
Ingredients of Gluten Free Funnel Cake
Making gluten-free funnel cake is a delightful adventure in the kitchen, and the best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients on hand. This recipe is simple, straightforward, and most importantly, it yields a treat that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. I mean, who doesn’t love a good funnel cake?
Whether you’re planning a festive gathering or just want to indulge in a sweet snack, this gluten-free version will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to whip up this carnival classic right at home.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 cups gluten-free flour (Bob’s Red Mills All Purpose Gluten Free Flour is a great choice)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon gluten-free baking powder
- 1 teaspoon gluten-free xanthan gum (helps with texture)
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon gluten-free vanilla extract
- Oil (for frying; canola or vegetable oil works well)
- Powdered sugar (for topping)
- Cinnamon (optional, but who doesn’t love a sprinkle?)
- Fresh strawberries and blueberries (for that extra touch)
Now, before you rush off to the kitchen, here are a few things to reflect on about the ingredients. If you’re new to gluten-free baking, it might be worth investing in a good gluten-free flour blend like Bob’s Red Mills, which really helps achieve that classic funnel cake texture.
And xanthan gum? It’s a tiny ingredient but a game changer, giving the cake that lovely chewy bite. Also, feel free to get playful with toppings—powdered sugar is a must, but fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate syrup can elevate your funnel cake to a whole new level.
Just imagine taking a bite, the crunch giving way to that fluffy interior, and then the sweetness of fresh fruit dancing on your taste buds. It’s pure joy in every bite. Now, let’s get cooking!
How to Make Gluten Free Funnel Cake
Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and plunge into how to make this delicious gluten-free funnel cake. First things first, you’ll want to gather your ingredients, which you probably already have scattered around your kitchen.
Grab 2 cups of gluten-free flour—Bob’s Red Mills All Purpose Gluten Free Flour works wonders—and mix it in a bowl with 1/4 cup of sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of gluten-free baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of gluten-free xanthan gum. If you’re not sure what xanthan gum is, think of it as the secret sauce that helps give your cake that delightful texture.
Set that aside, and let’s move on to the wet stuff. In another bowl, crack open 2 eggs and whisk them until they’re a bit frothy—like a mini workout for your arms. Then pour in 1 1/4 cups of milk and 1/2 teaspoon of gluten-free vanilla extract. Mix it all together until it’s smooth and creamy.
Now, here comes the fun part. Gradually sift or fold in your dry mixture into the wet ingredients while whisking continuously. This way, you avoid those pesky lumps that can ruin your funnel cake dreams. When your batter is silky and ready to go, it’s time to heat up that oil. You’ll need about 2 inches of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Just remember, patience is key here. You want it hot enough to sizzle but not so hot that it turns your beautiful batter into burnt blobs.
Once the oil is ready—test it with a small drop of batter (it should bubble and start browning)—grab a wide-tipped funnel or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off. This is where you can get creative! Squeeze the batter into the hot oil, swirling and looping to create those signature funnel cake shapes.
Cook them until they’re golden brown on both sides, which usually takes about 45-60 seconds. Use a metal spatula to remove them, and let them drain on a wire rack or paper towel.
Now, here’s the best part—once they’re cool enough to handle, sprinkle with powdered sugar, maybe a dash of cinnamon, or toss on some fresh berries. Just imagine that first bite: crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. It’s like a fair in your mouth.
Gluten Free Funnel Cake Substitutions & Variations
While the classic gluten-free funnel cake recipe is a delightful treat on its own, exploring substitutions and variations can elevate your culinary experience.
For a healthier twist, I often swap traditional sugar with coconut sugar or honey, giving a unique flavor. You can use almond flour or a gluten-free blend like Bob’s Red Mill for different textures.
Adding spices like nutmeg or cinnamon boosts the taste, and for a fruity variation, I mix in mashed bananas or applesauce.
Don’t forget to top your funnel cake with fresh berries or dairy-free whipped cream for a delicious finishing touch! Enjoy experimenting!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your gluten-free funnel cake turns out perfectly, I recommend keeping a few key tips in mind.
First, make sure your oil is at the right temperature; too hot, and the outside will burn while the inside stays raw. I like to test it with a small drop of batter.
Second, don’t rush the frying process—let each side achieve that beautiful golden color.
Finally, feel free to experiment with toppings; fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon elevate the flavor.
Enjoy your creation right away for the best taste, and don’t forget to keep the funnel clean between batches!