Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Large pot for frying
- Slotted spoon
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and softened butter. Mix with an electric mixer until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth.
3. Roll the dough into small balls, about the size of a hazelnut.
4. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the dough balls in batches and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove the fried dough balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. In a small saucepan, combine the honey and water. Heat over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Dip the fried dough balls in the honey mixture, making sure they are fully coated. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Sprinkle the chopped almonds over the honey-glazed dough balls.
9. Allow the honey-glazed pignolata to cool and set for 10-15 minutes.
10. Dust the pignolata with powdered sugar before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Oil temperature for frying: 350°F
Serving size:
- Makes about 30-40 honey-glazed pignolata
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120 per serving
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almonds can be substituted with other nuts, such as hazelnuts or pistachios.
- Granulated sugar can be substituted with brown sugar or honey.
Variations:
- Add lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the honey-glazed pignolata for a decadent dessert.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the dough balls to prevent them from becoming greasy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried dough balls from the oil to prevent them from breaking apart.
- Allow the honey-glazed pignolata to cool and set before dusting with powdered sugar to prevent the sugar from melting.
Storage instructions:
- Store the honey-glazed pignolata in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the honey-glazed pignolata in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the honey-glazed pignolata on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar and chopped almonds.
- Serve the honey-glazed pignolata with a drizzle of melted chocolate and a dollop of whipped cream.
Garnishes:
- Chopped almonds
- Powdered sugar
- Melted chocolate
- Whipped cream
Pairings:
- Serve the honey-glazed pignolata with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Vanilla ice cream
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it becomes smooth and pliable.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes smooth and easy to handle.
Food safety advice:
- Use caution when frying the dough balls to prevent burns.
- Make sure the honey mixture is not too hot before dipping the fried dough balls to prevent burns.
Food history:
- Pignolata is a traditional Sicilian dessert that is typically served during the Christmas season.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet
- Nutty
- Crispy
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the honey-glazed pignolata as a dessert or as a sweet snack.
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Region: Italian