Italian Fried Knots
Description
These Italian Fried Knots are a delightful, old-fashioned dessert that combines the crispiness of fried dough with the sticky sweetness of a honey glaze. The dough is simple, relying on flour, butter, and vanilla for a tender texture that holds up well to frying. Once golden brown, the knots are briefly dipped in a simmered mixture of honey and sugar, creating a glossy, fragrant coating that is irresistible. Finished with a sprinkle of colorful nonpareils, these treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, Christmas tables, or as a comforting weekend indulgence. They offer a charming, homemade alternative to store-bought pastries, bringing a touch of traditional Italian sweetness to your kitchen. Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large bowl, combine the flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and salt.
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Make a well in the center and add the eggs, vanilla, melted butter, and 1 tablespoon of water.
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Mix until a soft dough forms; knead briefly until smooth.
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Cover the dough and let it rest for 1 hour at room temperature.
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On a floured surface, roll the dough out quite thin, about 1/8-inch thick.
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Cut the dough into strips approximately 1 inch wide and 3 inches long.
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Tie each strip into a simple knot.
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Heat oil in a deep pot to 350F (175C).
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Fry the knots in batches until golden brown and crisp, turning once.
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Remove knots and drain on paper towels.
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In a saucepan, combine the honey, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and 1/4 cup of water or sweet wine.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer until the sugar is fully dissolved and the glaze is slightly thickened.
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Remove the glaze from heat.
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Dip the warm fried knots into the honey glaze, ensuring they are coated.
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Place glazed knots on a platter and immediately sprinkle with nonpareils while the glaze is still sticky.
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Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 50
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 812.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7.6g12%
- Saturated Fat 4.1g21%
- Cholesterol 16.1mg6%
- Sodium 2489.5mg104%
- Total Carbohydrate 170.4g57%
- Dietary Fiber 4.5g18%
- Sugars 56.3g
- Protein 15.2g31%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
The original recipe listed "eggs" in the directions but not the ingredients; 2 large eggs have been added to the ingredient list for completeness.
"Non-pareils" mentioned in the original steps are small sugar sprinkles. Ensure you have them on hand for the final decoration.
If the dough feels too sticky while rolling, add a little more flour. If it cracks, add a teaspoon of water.
For the glaze, sweet wine like Marsala adds a deeper flavor, but water works perfectly fine for a pure honey taste.
These knots are best eaten fresh on the day they are made, as the nonpareils may slide off as the glaze sets.