How to Reheat Funnel Cake: The Ultimate Guide
Funnel cakes evoke nostalgic memories of fairs and carnivals with their irresistible aroma and sinfully delicious flavor. While they are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer, reheating them can help recreate that delightful experience at home. In this ultimate guide, we will explore different methods of reheating funnel cakes to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.
Soft or crispy funnel cake?
Before we dive into reheating methods, it’s important to decide whether you prefer your funnel cakes soft or crispy. While reheating can never fully replicate the original freshness, we can come close by using some advanced techniques.
Microwave reheating
If you like your funnel cakes soft and chewy, the microwave is the way to go. To keep them from getting soggy or dry, follow these steps:
- Place a microwave-safe plate in the microwave with a paper towel on top.
- Place the funnel cake on the paper towel and cover with the other end of the towel.
- Microwave on high for about 20 seconds.
- Flip cake over and microwave for an additional 10 to 15 seconds.
Reheating in the oven
For those who prefer a crispy texture, the oven is the preferred tool. There are two options to consider:
- Multiple funnel cakes:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the funnel cakes on the sheet.
- Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil to keep the funnel cakes from drying out.
- Bake for 10 minutes, remove foil after 8 minutes.
- Single funnel cake:
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Place the funnel cake directly on the center rack.
- Bake for a maximum of 3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Combined microwave and oven
For the ultimate in perfection, combining the power of the microwave and oven can produce extraordinary results. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the oven to 230°C (450°F).
- Wrap the funnel cake in a paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds.
- Bake on the middle rack of a preheated oven for 1 minute.
- This method provides a combination of a soft and warm interior with a slightly crispy, caramelized exterior.
Stove Top Reheating
If you don’t mind adding a little more oil, you can reheat your funnel cakes on the stovetop. Follow these steps:
- Heat about a tablespoon of peanut, coconut, or other neutral-flavored oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add funnel cake to pan and heat for 1 minute.
- Flip the cake and heat the other side for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the sugar.
- If necessary, flip and reheat for an additional minute to achieve the desired warmth and crispness.
Making Funnel Cake from Scratch
If you prefer to make your own funnel cake from scratch, here’s an easy recipe to follow:
Ingredients:
- Frying Oil
- 2 Eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Powdered Sugar for dusting and additional toppings
Directions:
- Heat oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, water and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, baking powder, salt, and flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
- Place a cooling rack over a baking sheet to create a draining station.
- Using a funnel, pour the batter into the hot oil, moving it in a continuous spiral pattern to create a unique shape.
- Fry each cake for 2 minutes, turning carefully with a stainless steel spatula or tongs to cook on both sides.
- Drain any excess oil on a wire rack and repeat with the remaining batter.
- Sprinkle funnel cakes with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Alternative Methods for Making Funnel Cakes
If you don’t have a funnel or a deep fryer, there are alternative methods for making delicious funnel cakes at home. Check out the following options:
- Use a decorator bag or a large Ziploc bag with the corner cut off to pour the batter into the hot oil.
- Use a squeeze bottle with a narrow opening to create intricate designs.
- Choose a shallow pan with enough oil to submerge the batter and use a spoon or ladle to shape the cakes.
Finish
Reheating funnel cakes allows you to enjoy this delicious treat after the initial frying. Whether you prefer a soft or crispy texture, there are several methods to achieve the desired result. From microwave and oven reheating to stovetop techniques, each method offers a unique way to bring back the flavors and textures of freshly made funnel cakes. Plus, making funnel cakes from scratch allows you to customize the batter and toppings to your liking. So the next time you’re craving the irresistible taste of funnel cake, use these reheating methods or try making them from scratch for a delightful culinary experience.
FAQS
Can I reheat funnel cake in the microwave?
Yes, you can reheat Funnel Cake in the microwave. Place the cake on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a paper towel, and microwave on high for about 20 seconds. Flip the cake over and microwave for an additional 10-15 seconds.
How do I get a crunchy texture when reheating funnel cake?
The best way to achieve a crispy texture is to reheat the funnel cake in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 10 minutes, removing the foil after 8 minutes for a perfectly crisp result.
What if I want a combination of soft and crispy funnel cake?
For a combination of soft, warm inside and slightly crispy outside, you can use a combination of microwave and oven. Microwave the funnel cake wrapped in a paper towel for 30 seconds, then transfer to a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 1 minute.
Can I reheat my funnel cakes on the stovetop?
Yes, you can reheat your funnel cakes on the stovetop. Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral flavored oil in a frying pan, place the cake in the pan and heat for 1 minute. Flip the cake and heat the other side for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the sugar.
Can I make a funnel cake from scratch at home?
Absolutely! You can make funnel cakes at home from scratch. Just follow a recipe that includes ingredients like eggs, milk, water, flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Heat oil in a deep fryer, pour the batter in a spiral pattern, and fry for 2 minutes on each side. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and enjoy!
What are some alternative ways to make funnel cakes?
If you don’t have a funnel or a deep fryer, you can still make delicious funnel cakes at home. Use a decorator bag or a large Ziploc bag with one corner cut off to pour the batter into the hot oil. Alternatively, use a squeeze bottle with a narrow opening or a shallow pan with enough oil to submerge the batter and shape the cakes with a spoon or ladle.