How to Make Struffoli

Struffoli is a traditional Italian dessert that originated in Naples. It is a sweet, fried dough pastry that is shaped into small balls and drizzled with honey and sprinkles.

The dough for Struffoli is made from flour, eggs, sugar, and butter or oil. The dough is rolled into small balls, about the size of marbles, and then deep-fried until they are golden brown and crispy. Once the Struffoli are fried, they are drained and then coated in a warm honey syrup. The honey syrup is made by heating honey, sugar, and water together until it forms a thick, sticky liquid.

After the Struffoli are coated in honey syrup, they are typically arranged into a cone or wreath shape and then sprinkled with colorful candy sprinkles. The finished product is a sweet and crunchy pastry that is perfect for snacking on during the holidays or as a dessert after a meal.

Struffoli is often served during special occasions, such as Christmas and Easter, and is a staple dessert in many Italian households. It is also commonly found in Italian bakeries and pastry shops, where it is sold by the pound or in small bags.

While the basic recipe for Struffoli remains the same, there are many variations of this traditional Italian dessert. Some recipes include the addition of citrus zest, nuts, or chocolate chips, while others use different types of sweeteners, such as maple syrup or agave nectar.

In addition to being a delicious treat, Struffoli also has a rich cultural history. It is believed to have originated in Naples in the 18th century and is thought to have been inspired by a similar pastry that was popular in ancient Greece. It is one of the great Italian pastry desserts and belongs up there with Cannoli and Sfogliatella.  Today, it is a beloved dessert in Italy and around the world, and is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup water
• Sprinkles or colored sugar, for decoration

Preparation:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and lemon zest.
2. In another bowl, beat the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract together until well combined.
3. Gradually add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
5. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. Roll the dough into thin ropes about the thickness of your finger.
7. Cut the ropes into small pieces, about 1/2 inch long.
8. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer until it reaches 375°F.
9. Carefully drop the small pieces of dough into the hot oil and fry them until they are golden brown and crispy.
10. Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove the fried dough from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
11. In a saucepan, heat the honey and water together until it is warm and runny.
12. Add the fried dough to the honey mixture and toss them gently until they are coated in the syrup.
13. Arrange the coated Struffoli onto a plate or platter, shaping them into a wreath or mound shape.
14. Decorate the Struffoli with colorful sprinkles or colored sugar.
15. Let the Struffoli cool and set before serving.