Strawberry Cheesecake Funnel Cake Sundae Recipe

Dreamy Strawberry Cheesecake Funnel Cake Sundae Recipe

A delightful strawberry cheesecake funnel cake sundae combines carnival nostalgia with decadent dessert magic.

Sweet memories of fairground treats dance through this playful recipe.

Crispy fried dough meets creamy cheesecake layers in an unexpected twist.

Powdered sugar and fresh berries create a stunning visual feast.

Drizzled with rich sauce, each bite promises indulgent comfort.

Summer afternoons feel magical when you share this whimsical dessert.

Prepare to become the neighborhood’s most creative sweet chef.

Strawberry Cheesecake Funnel Cake Sundae – Reasons to Try

  • Whip Up a Dessert Sensation: Dive into a playful twist on classic treats that combines the crispy fun of funnel cake with the creamy delight of cheesecake and strawberries.
  • Create Restaurant-Quality Dessert at Home: Master a show-stopping dessert that looks and tastes like a professional pastry chef crafted it, without needing advanced culinary skills.
  • Perfect for Sweet Tooth Celebrations: Ideal for summer gatherings, birthday parties, or when you want to surprise family and friends with a decadent, Instagram-worthy dessert that everyone will love.
  • Quick and Customizable Treat: Easily adaptable recipe that allows you to adjust toppings, swap ingredients, and create a personalized dessert experience in just a few simple steps.

Gather-’Round Ingredients for Cheesecake Funnel Cake Sundae

Funnel Cake Base:
  • Flour: A key ingredient that provides structure to the funnel cake batter.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the funnel cake achieve a light and airy texture.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the funnel cake.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness to the funnel cake base.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Bind the batter and provide richness to the funnel cake.
  • Milk: Creates a smooth and creamy consistency in the batter.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm and aromatic flavor to the funnel cake.
Frying and Topping:
  • Vegetable Oil: Used for deep-frying the funnel cake to golden perfection.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream: Provides a cool and creamy contrast to the warm funnel cake.
  • Strawberries: Fresh fruit that adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the sundae.
  • Strawberry Syrup: Enhances the strawberry flavor and adds moisture to the dessert.
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Adds a crunchy texture and cheesecake-like element to the sundae.
  • Whipped Cream: Optional topping that adds a light and fluffy finish.

Step-by-Step Assembly for a Showstopping Sundae

Step 1: Warm Up the Oil

Pour oil into a large pot or deep skillet, heating until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Use a cooking thermometer to ensure precise temperature for perfect frying.

Step 2: Whip Wet Ingredients

Grab a medium bowl and whisk together:
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract

Blend until the mixture looks smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine:
  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Sugar

Stir the dry ingredients until they’re evenly distributed.

Step 4: Create Funnel Cake Batter

Slowly add dry ingredients into wet ingredients, whisking constantly.

Mix until you have a silky, lump-free batter.

Step 5: Prepare Batter Container

Transfer the batter into a squeeze bottle or piping bag with a large tip.

This helps create those classic funnel cake swirls.

Step 6: Fry Funnel Cake

Carefully squeeze batter into hot oil, creating circular, web-like patterns.

Move the bottle in a swirling motion for that signature funnel cake look.

Step 7: Cook to Golden Perfection

Fry each funnel cake for 2-3 minutes per side.

Look for a beautiful golden-brown color that signals crispy deliciousness.

Step 8: Drain Excess Oil

Remove funnel cake from oil and place on paper towels.

Let excess oil drip away, ensuring a crisp texture.

Step 9: Build the Sundae Base

Place warm funnel cake on a serving plate.

Top with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.

Step 10: Add Fruity Flair

Arrange fresh sliced strawberries over the ice cream.

Drizzle strawberry syrup generously for extra sweetness.

Step 11: Sprinkle Cheesecake Crunch

Dust graham cracker crumbs over the top, adding that classic cheesecake texture and flavor.

Step 12: Finish with Fluffy Topping

Optional but recommended: Crown your creation with a fluffy dollop of whipped cream.

Step 13: Serve and Devour

Grab a spoon and dive into this decadent dessert immediately.

Enjoy every crispy, creamy, fruity bite!

Tricks for Fluffy Funnel Cake and Creamy Cheesecake

  • Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for perfectly crispy funnel cake without burning.
  • Practice squeezing batter in circular motions to create even, delicate lace-like funnel cake patterns.
  • Drain funnel cake on paper towels immediately after frying to remove excess oil and maintain crispiness.
  • Toast graham cracker crumbs lightly before sprinkling to intensify their nutty, caramelized taste.
  • Chill cream and mixing bowl beforehand to create firmer, longer-lasting whipped cream dollops.

Twists to Try With Your Funnel Cake Sundae

  • Gluten-Free Funnel Cake: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend for celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Strawberry Delight: Swap eggs with mashed banana, use plant-based milk, and coconut whipped cream for dairy-free option.
  • Chocolate Berry Blast: Substitute vanilla extract with cocoa powder and top with chocolate sauce instead of strawberry syrup.
  • Low-Sugar Wellness Bowl: Use sugar substitute, add chia seeds, and incorporate Greek yogurt for healthier alternative.

Serving a Sundae That Steals the Spotlight

  • Sweet Summer Dessert Station: Create a DIY sundae bar where guests can add their own toppings like extra berries, chocolate chips, or caramel sauce.
  • Berry Bliss Pairing: Serve alongside a chilled strawberry smoothie or iced tea to complement the rich, sweet flavors of the funnel cake sundae.
  • Picnic Perfect Presentation: Plate the sundae on a cute wooden board with fresh strawberries scattered around for a rustic, Instagram-worthy display that enhances the dessert's visual appeal.
  • Cool Breakfast Twist: Transform this dessert into a weekend brunch treat by adding a light dusting of powdered sugar and serving with fresh coffee.

Sundae Storage – Keeping Toppings and Cake Just Right

  • Store leftover funnel cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sogginess.
  • Wrap completely cooled funnel cake in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for maximum 1 month; place in freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F, place funnel cake on baking sheet, and warm for 5-7 minutes until crispy; avoid microwave to maintain crunchiness.
  • Heat air fryer to 350°F, place funnel cake inside for 2-3 minutes, turning halfway to ensure even warming and restore original crispiness.

FAQs

  • What equipment do I need to make this recipe?

You’ll need a deep pot or skillet, a thermometer to check oil temperature, a squeeze bottle or piping bag, paper towels, and basic mixing bowls.

  • Can I make this recipe without a deep fryer?

Yes, you can use a large pot or deep skillet with about 2 inches of oil, ensuring you maintain the correct temperature around 350F for proper frying.

  • Is it safe to fry at home?

Always be cautious when working with hot oil. Use long-handled utensils, wear protective clothing, keep children away, and never leave hot oil unattended on the stove.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Strawberry Cheesecake Funnel Cake Sundae Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Funnel Cake Sundae Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sweet strawberry cheesecake funnel cake sundae blends classic carnival treat with creamy dessert indulgence. Crispy fried funnel cake layers drizzled with cheesecake sauce and fresh strawberries create a nostalgic summer dessert you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)

Funnel Cake Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Topping and Flavor Ingredients:

  • 1 pint vanilla ice cream
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1/2 cup strawberry syrup or sauce
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

  1. Warm cooking oil in a large pot to 350F (175C), preparing for funnel cake creation.
  2. Whisk eggs, milk, and vanilla extract together in a medium mixing bowl until well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, blend flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar to create dry mixture.
  4. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into wet ingredients, whisking until batter becomes smooth and lump-free.
  5. Transfer batter into a squeeze bottle or piping bag fitted with a large tip for precise dispensing.
  6. Carefully squeeze batter into hot oil using circular, swirling motions to craft traditional funnel cake network.
  7. Fry each funnel cake for 2-3 minutes per side, achieving golden-brown crispy texture.
  8. Remove fried funnel cake and drain excess oil on absorbent paper towels.
  9. Place warm funnel cake on serving plate and crown with generous vanilla ice cream scoop.
  10. Artfully distribute fresh sliced strawberries across ice cream surface.
  11. Generously drizzle strawberry syrup over entire dessert for enhanced fruity flavor.
  12. Sprinkle crushed graham cracker crumbs to introduce classic cheesecake essence.
  13. Optional: Add delicate whipped cream dollop for extra indulgence.
  14. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy this decadent dessert fusion.

Notes

  • Use a candy thermometer to maintain precise oil temperature, ensuring crispy and evenly cooked funnel cake without burning.
  • Avoid overcrowding the oil when frying, which can lower the temperature and create greasy, soggy results.
  • Create a gluten-free version by substituting regular flour with almond or coconut flour for a lighter, dietary-friendly option.
  • Prepare batter just before frying to prevent separation and maintain the ideal consistency for crisp, airy funnel cake texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 583 kcal
  • Sugar: 41 g
  • Sodium: 290 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 66 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star