Apple-Filled Funnel Cake Pastries

sweet, crispy pastries are filled with warm, cinnamon-spiced apples that make every bite a delicious treat. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy dessert on a chilly day.

Kitchen Advice

Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil.
Use fresh apples for the filling to get a natural sweetness and a nice texture.
Drain the pastries on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil and keep them crisp.

Ingredients 0/7

1 ½ cups finely chopped, peeled tart apples 2 tablespoons lemon juice ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¾ cup chopped dried apples 1 recipe Buttermilk Dough for Fried Fruit Pies, chilled 2 cups canola oil for frying, or more as needed 1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar, or as needed

Why This Recipe Works

These pastries combine the crispy, golden texture of funnel cakes with a warm, sweet apple filling. They offer a perfect balance of crunch and softness, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Plus, they bring a fun twist to a classic dessert that everyone will enjoy.

Step 1

Combin fresh apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a small saucepan over high heat. Stir constantly as it comes to a boil, then let it cook for about 8 minutes until the apples soften. Mix in the dried apples and set the filling aside to cool completely.

Step 2

While the filling cools, take the chilled dough out and let it sit for about 30 minutes to warm up a bit. Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough into a rectangle roughly 12 by 16 inches, about 1/8-inch thick. Cut out twelve 4-inch circles.

Step 3

Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the apple filling onto the center of one dough circle. Carefully fold it in half, making sure the filling stays inside, then press the edges together. Use a floured fork to crimp the edges well so nothing leaks out. Repeat this with the remaining dough and filling.

Step 4

Heat about an inch of oil in a heavy skillet (cast iron works great) to 350°F. Working in batches of three, gently slide the pastries into the hot oil. Fry them for around 3 minutes, turning every 30 seconds so they brown evenly and don’t burn. When they’re golden and crispy, remove them and drain on paper towels.

Step 5

Let the pastries cool for a few minutes before dusting them generously with powdered sugar. Enjoy!

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people cooked this recipe

By Michael Davis

Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.

How To Plate This Dish

Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. These pastries are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special snack.

Freezing Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, warm them briefly in the oven to restore their crispiness. Avoid refrigerating as it can make the pastries soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of apple for the filling?

Yes, tart apples work best for balancing sweetness, but you can use any firm apple you prefer.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature for frying?

Use a thermometer to heat the oil to 350°F, or test by dropping a small piece of dough—if it sizzles and rises immediately, the oil is ready.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the apple filling can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk dough for fried fruit pies?

You can substitute with a similar pie dough recipe or a pre-made pastry dough that is suitable for frying.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking during frying?

Make sure to press and crimp the edges firmly with a fork to seal the dough completely.

Can I bake these pastries instead of frying?

Frying gives the best crispy texture, but you can bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden, though the texture will be different.

How should I store leftovers?

Store cooled pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; reheat briefly before serving.

Can I use a different oil for frying?

Yes, oils with a high smoke point like vegetable or peanut oil work well as alternatives to canola oil.