Struffoli are delightful Italian honey balls, deep-fried dough morsels coated in warm honey and adorned with colorful sprinkles. Originating from Naples, this festive treat is a staple during Christmas and other celebratory occasions. Their crisp exterior and soft, airy interior make them irresistibly delicious. Whether served in a wreath shape or as individual bites, struffoli bring joy and sweetness to any gathering.
Why You Will Love the Struffoli Recipe
Struffoli are a delightful Italian dessert that combines simplicity with festive flair. Their appeal lies in their texture and taste.
- Golden, crispy exterior with a soft, airy interior.
- Infused with citrus zest for a refreshing flavor.
- Coated in warm honey, adding a sweet richness.
- Traditionally, it is garnished with colorful sprinkles and candied fruits.
- Perfect for holiday celebrations and gatherings.
These characteristics make struffoli a beloved treat, cherished for both their taste and the joy they bring during special occasions.
Ingredients You Will Need
To create authentic struffoli, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 cup honey
- Rainbow sprinkles, for garnish
How to Make Struffoli
Follow these steps to prepare struffoli:
1. Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and melted butter. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
2. Roll the Dough
Divide the dough into small portions. Roll each portion into a rope about ½ inch thick. Cut the ropes into small pieces, approximately ½ inch long.
3. Fry the Dough
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the dough pieces in batches until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Coat with Honey
In a separate pan, heat honey until warm. Add the fried dough pieces to the honey. Stir gently to coat evenly.
5. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the honey-coated dough to a serving platter. Sprinkle with rainbow sprinkles. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Struffoli
Ingredients
Method
- Mix eggs, sugar, vanilla, lemon zest, and melted butter. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Divide dough into portions, roll each into ½-inch thick ropes, then cut into ½-inch pieces.
- Heat oil to 175°C (350°F). Fry dough pieces in batches until golden (~2 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
- Warm honey in a pan, add fried dough, and stir gently to coat evenly.
- Arrange coated struffoli on a platter, sprinkle with rainbow sprinkles, and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Serving Tips for Struffoli Recipe
Enhance your struffoli experience with these serving tips:
- Serve struffoli in a festive wreath shape for a traditional presentation.
- Garnish with candied orange peels or cherries for added color and flavor.
- Pair with a glass of sweet dessert wine like Vin Santo.
- Allow struffoli to cool slightly before serving to retain their crispness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
These tips will help you present and enjoy your struffoli to their fullest potential.
Nutritional Benefits of Struffoli Recipe
While struffoli are a delightful treat, they should be enjoyed in moderation due to their rich ingredients. The dough provides carbohydrates and a small amount of protein from eggs. Honey offers natural sweetness and contains trace amounts of vitamins and minerals.
However, the frying process adds calories and fat. To make a lighter version, consider baking the dough balls instead of frying. Additionally, using less honey or opting for a sugar-free alternative can reduce the overall sugar content. Enjoy struffoli as an occasional indulgence during festive occasions.
Conclusion
Struffoli are a delightful Italian dessert that combines crispy dough with sweet honey and festive garnishes. Their rich flavors and traditional presentation make them a perfect addition to holiday celebrations. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or trying them for the first time, struffoli are sure to bring joy to your table. Enjoy making and sharing this classic treat with loved ones.