They do not look like a funnel and don’t really look like cakes! Funnel Cakes are made by pouring batter through a funnel into hot oil in a circular pattern and then quickly deep frying it until golden-brown. They are often served with powdered sugar, jam, or other toppings. Funnel Cakes can also be made at home, with the use of a frying pan.
Funnel Cakes are a popular offering at outdoor food stands in carnivals, County and Renaissance fairs, arts and craft shows and seaside resorts. When made at concession stands, a separate funnel is not used; instead, the batter is poured from a purpose-made pitcher (jug) with an integral spout.
Funnel Cakes resemble the items known as fried dough or “elephant ears,” however these items are made with a risen yeast dough, whereas funnel cakes are made with an unleavened batter.The Finnish version of Funnel Cakes is: tippaleipä, and are traditionally served at May Day (Vappu) celebrations.