Summer Time Fun and Funnel Cakes

8 cups vegetable oil for frying
1 1/2 cups milk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
zest of 1 medium-sized orange
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup powdered sugar, for garnish
fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and quartered, for garnish
Whipped cream, for garnish

In a deep-fryer, or heavy skillet, heat the vegetable oil to 375 degrees F.
In a large bowl, beat the milk, eggs, and vanilla paste or extract together. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, orange zest, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Add the flour mixture to the milk/egg mixture and stir until well incorporated and smooth.
Pour one cup of batter in a funnel, covering the funnel hole with one finger. Starting from the center, swirl the batter in the hot oil, making a circle around 6 or 7 inches in diameter. Fry on both sides until golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes per side.
Remove and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and top with strawberries and whipped cream. Serve immediately.