County Fair Funnel Cakes

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tbsp granulated sugar

1 tbsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1 1/2 cups milk

2 large eggs

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

Prepare the Batter:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. The batter should be pourable; if it's too thick, add a little more milk.

Heat the Oil:

In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat about 1 to 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach 350°F (175°C) for frying.

Fry the Funnel Cakes:

Pour the batter into a funnel (or use a squeeze bottle or a measuring cup with a spout). While covering the bottom of the funnel with your finger, position it over the hot oil.

Carefully release your finger and swirl the batter in a circular motion into the oil, creating a spiral or criss-cross pattern.

Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to flip and remove the funnel cakes.

Drain and Dust:

Place each funnel cake on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Dust generously with powdered sugar.

Serve:

Enjoy the funnel cakes while they’re warm, with extra toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate sauce, if desired!