Pour about 3 inches of oil into a large, heavy bottom pot. Heat over medium to medium-high heat until oil reaches 350℉.

Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

In a second bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: milk, egg, vanilla, and salted butter.

Combine the wet ingredients into the dry and whisk until smooth.

Working one batch at a time, pour about 3/4 cup of batter into a funnel, keeping the bottom opening plugged with your finger. Note- Make sure to use a funnel with a larger opening- this batter is on the thick side.

Uncover the funnel over the heated oil and carefully move it around in a slow swirl pattern as the batter flows out. Try to keep the end of the funnel no more than an inch or two away from the surface of the oil or the batter will disperse rather than come together into the cake form.

Let the funnel cake fry for about 2 minutes on the first side or until golden brown. Then using a metal spatula, carefully turn the funnel cake over, using a second spatula if necessary to keep the oil from splashing.

When its golden brown on the second side, remove the cake from the oil and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Then top with a good dusting of powdered sugar.

Repeat the frying (and eating process) with the remaining batter.