STRUFFOLI-Honey-Balls

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Servings: 1 Difficulty: Advanced
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Traditional Italian Epiphany dessert of fried dough balls coated in warm honey
STRUFFOLI (Honey Balls recipe image
STRUFFOLI (Honey Balls recipe image
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STRUFFOLI-Honey-Balls

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 1 Calories: 825.5

Description

Struffoli are delicate, golden-fried dough balls coated in warm honey and sprinkled with colorful decorations, a classic Italian dessert traditionally served for Epiphany. These sweet treats offer a delightful contrast between the crisp exterior of the fried dough and the sticky, aromatic honey glaze. Made with simple pantry staples like flour, eggs, and butter, they come together to create a rich, indulgent centerpiece for holiday tables. The honey not only sweetens the dish but also helps bind the mound together, allowing you to break off pieces by hand. Perfect for festive gatherings or as a special weekend baking project, these honey balls bring a taste of Italian tradition to your kitchen with their comforting aroma and timeless flavor.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Whisk together eggs, softened butter, and 1 teaspoon of sugar in a bowl until the mixture is foamy and well combined.
  2. Add baking powder to the wet mixture, then gradually stir in the flour until a soft dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead until smooth.
  4. Divide the dough into four equal pieces.
  5. Roll each piece into a rope about the width of your index finger and 12 inches long.
  6. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces.
  7. Toss the dough pieces with enough flour to dust them lightly, then shake off any excess flour.
  8. Heat vegetable oil to 375F (191C) in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot.
  9. Fry the struffoli in small batches, ensuring they do not touch, until they puff up and turn golden brown.
  10. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried balls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  11. Combine honey and 1/2 cup sugar in a large saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves. Keep the honey mixture warm.
  12. Add the fried dough balls to the warm honey mixture a few at a time, turning them with a wooden spoon to coat evenly on all sides.
  13. Transfer the honey-coated balls to a large serving platter, mounding them into a pyramid shape. Use wet hands to help shape the mound if necessary.
  14. Sprinkle the top of the mound with colored sprinkles.
  15. Let the struffoli stand for 1 to 2 hours to allow the honey to set slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 1

Amount Per Serving
Calories 825.5kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 8.4g13%
Saturated Fat 3.4g17%
Cholesterol 147.9mg50%
Sodium 161.4mg7%
Total Carbohydrate 172.2g58%
Dietary Fiber 3.2g13%
Sugars 81.2g
Protein 16.9g34%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: struffoli, honey balls, italian dessert, epiphany, fried dough, holiday treat, honey glaze, sweet pastry, traditional recipe, festive dessert, beffana, naples, italian cuisine, vegetarian dessert, springerle alternative, honey cake, deep frying, dessert mound, colored sprinkles, italian holiday
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