Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Large pot or deep fryer
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the softened butter and mix with a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
5. In another medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and orange zest. Mix until well combined.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 375°F.
7. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, drop the batter into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Remove the sfinge from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. Once the sfinge have cooled slightly, use a piping bag or spoon to fill them with the ricotta filling.
10. Dust the sfinge with powdered sugar and serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Oil temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 12 sfinge
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used in place of all-purpose flour.
- Honey or maple syrup can be used in place of granulated sugar.
- Lemon zest can be used in place of orange zest.
- Mascarpone cheese can be used in place of ricotta cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture.
- Use a different flavored extract, such as almond or peppermint, for a different flavor profile.
- Top the sfinge with a chocolate ganache or caramel sauce for added decadence.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the sfinge from becoming greasy.
- Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to create uniform-sized sfinge.
- Allow the sfinge to cool slightly before filling to prevent the filling from melting.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover sfinge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the sfinge in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the sfinge on a platter dusted with powdered sugar and garnished with fresh berries.
Garnishes:
- Fresh berries, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings can be used as garnishes.
Pairings:
- Serve the sfinge with a cup of hot coffee or espresso for a classic Italian dessert experience.
Suggested side dishes:
- Sfinge can be served as a standalone dessert or paired with a light salad for a balanced meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sfinge are not cooking evenly, adjust the temperature of the oil accordingly.
- If the sfinge are too greasy, allow them to drain on a paper towel-lined plate for a few minutes before serving.
Food safety advice:
- Always use caution when working with hot oil to prevent burns.
- Make sure the sfinge are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Sfinge are a traditional Italian dessert commonly served during the Carnival season.
Flavor profiles:
- The chocolate sfinge have a rich, chocolatey flavor with a slightly sweet and tangy ricotta filling.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the sfinge as a sweet treat after a hearty Italian meal or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
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Region: Italian