Name: Delicious Struffoli: 5 Simple Steps to Festive Italian Treats
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 orange; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; Neutral oil (canola or sunflower), for deep frying; 1 cup honey; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional); Sprinkles (nonpareils or rainbow jimmies)

Struffoli is a traditional Italian dessert that brings the warmth of Southern Italy straight to your kitchen. These delightful sweet fried dough balls, drizzled with honey and adorned with colorful sprinkles, are a staple during festive celebrations, especially Christmas. Made with simple ingredients like flour, eggs, and citrus zest, they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive addition to your holiday dessert table, let’s dive into this Struffoli recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Struffoli

This Struffoli recipe is not just delicious; it’s also versatile. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore making this treat:

Quick to prepare, taking only 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Perfect for Italian honey balls lovers and those new to baking.
Great for family gatherings, adding a touch of tradition.
Customizable with different toppings and flavors.
Ideal for Christmas celebrations, showcasing festive colors.
Enjoyable as a delightful snack any time of the year.

This recipe embraces the essence of Neapolitan struffoli, making it a must-try for anyone interested in traditional Italian desserts.

Ingredients for Struffoli

Gather these items:

2 cups all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 orange
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
Neutral oil (canola or sunflower), for deep frying
1 cup honey
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Sprinkles (nonpareils or rainbow jimmies)

How to Make Struffoli Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add the eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and orange zest. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 1/2 inch thick. Cut each rope into small marble-sized pieces. Roll each piece into round dough balls.
Step 3: In a deep saucepan, heat 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the dough balls in batches for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Step 4: In a large skillet, heat the honey, sugar, and lemon juice over low heat until the sugar dissolves. Add the fried dough balls and stir until evenly coated. Transfer to a serving platter and shape into a mound or ring. Top with sprinkles while still warm.

Delicious Struffoli: 5 Simple Steps to Festive Italian Treats - Struffoli - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Struffoli

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh citrus for better flavor.
Watch the oil temperature to avoid burning the dough balls.
Sprinkles are optional but add a festive touch.
For a unique twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
Ensure the honey mixture is warm when coating for better adherence.

Best Ways to Serve Struffoli

Serving your Struffoli can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas:

Shape into a festive wreath for a beautiful presentation.
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast.
Consider drizzling additional honey on top for extra sweetness.

How to Store and Reheat Struffoli

To store your Struffoli, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions About Struffoli

What’s the secret to perfect Struffoli?

The secret to perfect Struffoli lies in the dough consistency. It should be soft yet not sticky. Make sure to knead it well, and allow it to rest before frying.

Can I make Struffoli ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Just store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before shaping and frying.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Struffoli?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure your oil is at the correct temperature for frying. Additionally, ensure to coat the dough balls evenly in honey while they are still warm for the best flavor.

Variations of Struffoli You Can Try

Here are some exciting variations to consider:

Try adding different flavored extracts like almond or lemon for a twist.
Incorporate dried fruits or nuts into the dough for added texture.
For a chocolate version, drizzle melted chocolate over the finished Struffoli.

These variations ensure that your Struffoli remain a delightful treat throughout the year.

For more delicious recipes, check out this link or explore this page for festive ideas. If you’re interested in learning more about Italian desserts, visit this resource.