Funnel Cake Vs Doughboy: The Benefits And Drawbacks
What To Know
- While both are deep-fried, funnel cake is made by pouring a batter through a funnel into hot oil, creating a crispy, web-like structure.
- Doughboy, on the other hand, is made by forming a dough into a ball and frying it until golden brown, resulting in a dense and chewy texture.
- While funnel cake’s crispy texture and sweet flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, doughboy’s dense texture and savory flavor provide a unique alternative.
Funnel cake and doughboy, two beloved carnival treats, share a dough-based foundation but diverge in their preparation and taste. While both are deep-fried, funnel cake is made by pouring a batter through a funnel into hot oil, creating a crispy, web-like structure. Doughboy, on the other hand, is made by forming a dough into a ball and frying it until golden brown, resulting in a dense and chewy texture.
The Battle of the Flavors
Funnel Cake:
- Sweet and crispy exterior
- Fluffy and airy interior
- Often topped with powdered sugar, fruit, or ice cream
Doughboy:
- Dense and chewy texture
- Slightly sweet with a hint of yeastiness
- Typically served plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar
Which One is Better?
The answer to this question is subjective, as both funnel cake and doughboy offer unique flavor experiences. However, there are a few factors to consider:
Texture:
- Funnel cake lovers appreciate its crispy exterior and airy interior.
- Doughboy enthusiasts prefer its dense and chewy texture.
Flavor:
- Funnel cake’s sweet, sugary flavor is a crowd-pleaser.
- Doughboy’s subtle yeastiness provides a more savory flavor profile.
Toppings:
- Funnel cake’s versatile texture pairs well with a variety of toppings.
- Doughboy’s dense texture makes it less suitable for toppings.
Health Considerations
Both funnel cake and doughboy are high in calories and fat, so it’s important to consume them in moderation. However, there are some healthier options available:
- Baked funnel cake: Made with a whole-wheat batter and baked instead of fried.
- Whole-wheat doughboy: Made with whole-wheat flour and reduced-fat milk.
Where to Find Funnel Cake and Doughboy
Funnel cake and doughboy can be found at carnivals, fairs, and amusement parks. They are also available at some street food vendors and restaurants.
How to Make Funnel Cake and Doughboy at Home
Funnel Cake:
1. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
3. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into a funnel and hold over hot oil.
5. Squeeze batter through the funnel to create a spiral pattern.
6. Fry until golden brown and crispy.
Doughboy:
1. Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk and melted butter.
3. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Cover dough and let rise for 1 hour.
6. Divide dough into small balls and fry until golden brown.
Variations and Innovations
Both funnel cake and doughboy have inspired numerous variations and innovations:
- Funnel cake fries: Thin strips of funnel cake fried to perfection.
- Doughboy bites: Mini doughboys filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables.
- Funnel cake ice cream sandwich: Funnel cake filled with ice cream.
- Doughboy cinnamon rolls: Doughboy dough rolled in cinnamon sugar and baked.
The Verdict
Funnel cake and doughboy are both delicious treats that offer distinct flavor experiences. While funnel cake’s crispy texture and sweet flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, doughboy’s dense texture and savory flavor provide a unique alternative. Ultimately, the best choice depends on personal preference and what you’re craving at the moment.
What People Want to Know
Q: Is funnel cake the same as elephant ears?
A: No, elephant ears are made from a yeast-based dough that is rolled out and flattened before being fried.
Q: Can I make funnel cake batter ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can store funnel cake batter in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using it.
Q: What is the best oil to fry funnel cake?
A: Vegetable oil or canola oil are both good choices for frying funnel cake.
Q: Why is my funnel cake soggy?
A: Your funnel cake may be soggy if it was not fried long enough or if the oil was not hot enough.
Q: Can I bake funnel cake instead of frying it?
A: Yes, you can bake funnel cake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes per side.