Italian Christmas baking is all about creating delightful treats that bring comfort and joy during the festive season. As the holiday approaches, one beloved recipe that always steals the spotlight for its simplicity and deliciousness is the Castagnole Fried Sweet Dough Balls.
**Castagnole Fried Sweet Dough Balls**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– 3 large eggs
– 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well with a whisk to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Add the melted butter, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
3. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently to form a soft dough. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour until it is workable but still soft.
4. On a lightly floured surface, take a small portion of dough and gently roll it between your palms to form a small ball, approximately the size of a cherry. Repeat this process with the remaining dough.
5. In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C). Carefully drop a few dough balls at a time into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot.
6. Fry the dough balls until they are golden brown and puffed up, about 2-3 minutes, flipping them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
7. Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried dough balls and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
8. Once all the Castagnole are fried, transfer them to a serving platter and dust them generously with powdered sugar while they are still warm. The sugar will cling to the warm dough, creating a sweet and delicate coating.
9. Serve these delightful Castagnole Fried Sweet Dough Balls alongside a cup of espresso or hot chocolate for a cozy and indulgent holiday treat that will surely impress your family and friends.
Cooking and sharing these traditional Italian Christmas treats can become a cherished holiday tradition in your own home. The simplicity of this recipe paired with the delightful flavors of lemon and vanilla make these Castagnole Fried Sweet Dough Balls a delightful addition to your festive table. Enjoy the magic of the season with each bite of these crispy, tender, and sweet little dough balls!
