There’s something about homemade desserts that instantly makes any day better. The type you can mix, roll, bake, and enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea, filling the air with irresistible scents of butter and sugar. Today, we have a delightful treat that holds a special place in the hearts and homes of many: the classic Struffoli. Picture golden nuggets of dough, fried to perfection, and coated in a luscious honey glaze. These bite-sized honey balls are a beloved Italian dessert, often made during the holiday season or special family gatherings. Let’s dive into creating the best Struffoli with this easy-to-follow recipe that will fill your home with warmth and joy.
**The Best Struffoli Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 large eggs
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup sugar pearls (optional)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, lemon zest, and orange zest. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
2. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and crack the eggs into it. Add the vanilla extract. Then, with a fork, gently beat the eggs, slowly incorporating the flour mixture until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour. Form the dough into a ball, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. After the dough has rested, divide it into smaller sections. Roll each section into long ropes about 1/2 inch in diameter. Cut the ropes into small pieces, each about 1/2 inch long.
5. In a deep pot, heat the vegetable oil for frying. Once the oil reaches 350°F (180°C), carefully drop the dough pieces into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until the Struffoli are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried Struffoli from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
7. In a separate saucepan, heat the honey over low heat until it becomes thin and runny. Add the fried Struffoli to the warm honey and toss to coat each piece evenly.
8. If using sugar pearls, sprinkle them over the coated Struffoli for a decorative touch.
9. Transfer the honey-coated Struffoli to a serving platter and shape them into a wreath or mound. Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Enjoy these delicious Struffoli warm or at room temperature, and watch them disappear as quickly as they arrived. Share them with loved ones or keep them all to yourself—it’s a treat worth savoring slowly.
Indulge in the joy of making these little bites of heaven, and add a touch of tradition to your dessert repertoire with this delightful Struffoli recipe.
