Name: Delicious Struffoli: 7 Steps for Perfect Italian Honey Balls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 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 an iconic Italian dessert that captures the essence of Southern Italy. These delightful honey balls, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, are traditionally served during festive occasions, especially during Christmas. With a recipe that combines simple ingredients like flour, honey, and eggs, making them is a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with the warmth of Italian culture. Topped with sprinkles, they are not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Why You’ll Love This Struffoli

There are countless reasons to adore Struffoli. First, they are a beloved traditional Italian dessert that brings families together during celebrations. Second, the process of making these fried dough balls is fun and engaging, perfect for cooking with loved ones. Third, they are versatile—enjoy them plain, with honey, or adorned with colorful sprinkles. Fourth, they make a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table. Fifth, they’re a great treat for sharing or gifting. Finally, they are simple enough for beginners yet can impress seasoned bakers. This Struffoli recipe for Christmas is a must-have!

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 rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into small marble-sized pieces. Roll each piece into round dough balls.
Step 3: Heat 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep saucepan. Fry the dough balls in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
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 coated. Transfer to a serving platter and shape into a mound or ring. Top with sprinkles while warm.

Delicious Struffoli: 7 Steps for Perfect Italian Honey Balls - Struffoli - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Struffoli

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for holidays and family gatherings.
Try adding different flavors to the dough, like nutmeg or almond extract, to personalize your Neapolitan struffoli.
Store in an airtight container for freshness; they can last up to a week.

Best Ways to Serve Struffoli

These scrumptious Italian sweet fritters can be served in various ways. You can create a beautiful centerpiece by shaping them into a festive ring or mound. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of gelato or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat. For a more traditional touch, serve them with a sprinkle of cinnamon and powdered sugar.

Delicious Struffoli: 7 Steps for Perfect Italian Honey Balls - Struffoli - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Struffoli

To keep your homemade struffoli fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to reheat, place them in the oven at low heat for a few minutes to retain their crispiness. Remember, these treats are best enjoyed fresh, so try to make them on the day you plan to serve them!

Frequently Asked Questions About Struffoli

What’s the secret to perfect Struffoli?

The key to perfect Struffoli lies in not overcrowding the frying pan. Fry them in small batches to achieve that delightful golden-brown exterior. The right oil temperature is also crucial—350°F (175°C) ensures they cook evenly.

Can I make Struffoli ahead of time?

While Struffoli are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before frying.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Struffoli?

Ensure that your dough is not too sticky; if needed, add a bit more flour during preparation. Also, monitor the frying temperature closely to avoid burning the fried dough balls.

Variations of Struffoli You Can Try

There are several delightful variations of Struffoli throughout Italy. For example, you can experiment with different toppings, such as chopped nuts or dried fruits. In some regions, they add a splash of liqueur to the honey mixture for an adult twist. Additionally, consider infusing the dough with flavors like orange or lemon zest for a refreshing touch.

For more information on traditional Italian desserts, check out this guide to Italian sweets. If you’re interested in learning about other festive recipes, visit this page for more ideas. You can also explore holiday baking tips to enhance your culinary skills.