It is thought funnel cakes were first introduced to America by German immigrants who came to Pennsylvania, and later became known as the Pennsylvania Dutch.  These fried cakes were mostly served during harvest festivals and holidays.  They are thought to derive from an “oliebol”, which is a traditional Dutch food that is similar to a donut.  The name literally translates to “oil ball” because the circular dough was dunked it hot oil until it turned into a sumptuous golden delicacy.

The original recipe for funnel cakes dates back to the 1870s in Germany, but the first recorded recipe is thought to be in an English cookbook in 1935.  It calls for one pint of sweet milk, two well-beaten eggs, adequate flour to make a thin batter, one-quarter teaspoon of salt and one-half teaspoon of baking powder.  The recipe instructs the ingredients be mixed jointly and poured in a pan through a funnel.  The cook should turn the stream around until circles form, fry until golden brown and serve with jelly.

People around the world have dissimilar traditions and names for similar fried cakes.  In Finland, they are called tippaleipa and eaten on May Day.  In Spain, churros are typically eaten with coffee for breakfast.  Austrians call the fried cake a strauben and Indians call it jalebi.  It remains a popular treat for the Amish because it can be made without electricity.  Of course, for Americans the funnel cake stands for summertime fun!

Recently, funnel cake concession trailers have been used as fundraisers or to earn extra income.  If you are thinking about opening your own funnel cake business, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.  Start by researching your area.  You will need commercial flyers, funnel cake mix, fryers, funnel cake equipment and supplies as well as permits.

Determine the funnel cake supplies that you will need and research how much the items will cost.  Do not skimp on the funnel cake equipment!  It is important to buy high quality equipment or it can start to fall apart and your customers will find someone else who bought reliable equipment for their funnel cakes.

Many concession equipment retailers supply mobile concession stands.  Consider investing in this kind of stand, as you will be able to move it from fair to fair throughout the summer.  Make reservations for fairs and other events as soon as possible!  You want to get the best selling spot to make the most money .

After you have all of the equipment and essential permits, you can start frying up funnel cakes!  Have fun when starting a new business!  Remember you are providing a fair favorite for families to love together, so don’t forget to enjoy the experience.