Struffoli Recipe

Imagine the heartwarming smell of frying dough and sweet honey filling your kitchen on a cozy holiday evening. Struffoli, those irresistible, tiny balls of deep-fried dough coated in honey and adorned with festive sprinkles, bring families together like no other treat. Each bite is a delightful mix of crunchy, sweet, and slightly citrusy flavors, making it a must-have during festive times. Gather around the kitchen with your loved ones, and let’s create some magical moments with this cherished Italian dessert.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup honey
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Festive sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, lemon zest, and salt.
2. Make a well in the center and add the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into small portions, and roll each portion into long, thin ropes about 1/2-inch thick.
5. Cut the ropes into small, 1/2-inch pieces, and roll each piece into a small ball.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep saucepan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the dough balls in batches until they are golden brown and puffed, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. In a separate saucepan, gently warm the honey over low heat until it is liquid but not boiling.
8. Place the fried dough balls in a large mixing bowl, pour the warm honey over them, and gently toss to coat evenly.
9. Transfer the honey-coated Struffoli to a serving platter and sprinkle generously with festive sprinkles.
10. Allow the Struffoli to set for about 30 minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips

• If you don’t have lemon zest, orange zest can be a delightful substitute, giving a different yet wonderful citrus note.
• For an extra touch, some prefer adding a splash of anise liqueur to the honey for additional flavor.
• Ensure that the dough balls are evenly sized for consistent frying.

Storage Instructions

Struffoli can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep a parchment paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking together.

Pairings

Struffoli pairs beautifully with a cup of hot chocolate or a fragrant espresso. For a festive touch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a simple fruit compote.

At Zynahz, we believe that the heart of the home is the kitchen, where family and creativity come together. We hope this Struffoli recipe adds a touch of sweetness to your holiday celebrations. Try it out, and share your delicious creations with us! Don’t forget to spread the joy and pass the recipe along to friends and family. For more heartwarming recipes and kitchen inspirations, follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter. Let’s make every meal a story worth sharing.