Homemade Honey Struffoli

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 cup (240ml) honey 1 cup (240ml) honey
• Zest of 1 lemon or orange Zest of 1 lemon or orange
• Colorful sprinkles or candied fruits, for garnish Colorful sprinkles or candied fruits, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 25g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, eggs, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
2. 2.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. 3.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into thin ropes, about 1/2 inch in diameter.
4. 4.
   Cut the ropes into small pieces, about 1/2 inch long.
5. 5.
   In a deep pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (180°C).
6. 6.
   Carefully drop the dough pieces into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. 7.
   In a separate saucepan, heat the honey and citrus zest over low heat until warm and runny.
8. 8.
   Add the fried dough pieces to the honey syrup and toss gently to coat.
9. 9.
   Transfer the honey-coated struffoli to a serving platter and shape them into a mound or wreath.
10. 10.
    Garnish with colorful sprinkles or candied fruits.
11. 11.
    Allow the struffoli to cool and set before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Flour — Use all-purpose flour for the perfect texture of the dough.
• Honey — Opt for high-quality pure honey to enhance the flavor of the struffoli.
• Citrus zest — Choose either lemon or orange zest to add a refreshing citrus note to the honey syrup.
• Sprinkles or candied fruits — Get creative with your choice of colorful sprinkles or use candied fruits for a festive and decorative touch.
• Vegetable oil — Use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or sunflower oil, for frying the struffoli.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a light and airy texture, make sure the dough is well-kneaded and rested before rolling and cutting.
• When frying the dough, maintain a consistent oil temperature to ensure even browning.
• Allow the struffoli to cool and set before serving to enhance their crunchiness.
• Experiment with different shapes and sizes for a unique presentation.
• Serve the struffoli with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving advice

Serve the homemade honey struffoli as a delightful dessert on its own or alongside a cup of espresso or hot tea. They are best enjoyed fresh and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Presentation advice

Arrange the honey-coated struffoli in a beautiful wreath shape on a decorative platter. Garnish with colorful sprinkles or candied fruits to create an eye-catching display. Place a small bowl of extra honey syrup on the side for dipping.