Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup Nutella
- Vegetable oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Medium saucepan
- Deep-fry thermometer
- Slotted spoon
- Parchment paper
- Small microwave-safe bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into four equal parts and roll each part into a rope about 1/2 inch thick. Cut the ropes into small pieces about the size of a hazelnut.
4. In a medium saucepan, heat the honey over medium heat until it starts to bubble. Add the dough pieces and stir until they are coated in honey.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven until it reaches 375°F on a deep-fry thermometer. Fry the dough pieces in batches until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the struffoli to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. In a small microwave-safe bowl, heat the Nutella in 15-second intervals until it is melted and smooth.
7. Arrange the fried struffoli on a serving platter and drizzle with the melted Nutella.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
Makes about 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 390
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 57g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 34g
Sodium: 100mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of flavored honey instead of regular honey.
- You can substitute the Nutella with any other chocolate spread or melted chocolate.
Variations:
- You can add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough before frying.
- You can sprinkle the finished struffoli with powdered sugar or cinnamon.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the dough is well-kneaded to ensure a smooth texture.
- Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and prevent burning.
- Work in batches when frying the dough to avoid overcrowding the pot.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the struffoli to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Storage instructions:
Store the leftover struffoli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the struffoli, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the Nutella-drizzled struffoli on a festive platter and garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves.
Garnishes:
Fresh berries, mint leaves, powdered sugar, or cinnamon.
Pairings:
Serve the Nutella-drizzled struffoli with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
Suggested side dishes:
These sweet treats are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it is smooth and elastic.
- If the struffoli are too hard, reduce the frying time or lower the oil temperature.
Food safety advice:
- Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature.
- Be careful when working with hot oil to avoid burns.
- Store the leftover struffoli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Food history:
Struffoli is a traditional Italian dessert that is often served during the Christmas season. It is made by frying small balls of dough and coating them in honey or sugar syrup.
Flavor profiles:
The Nutella-drizzled struffoli are sweet and chocolatey with a hint of lemon zest.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Nutella-drizzled struffoli as a festive dessert or snack during the holiday season.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian