Neapolitan Struffoli

Struffoli is a Neapolitan dessert that is traditionally prepared at Christmas and made of tiny dough balls that have been deep-fried and soaked in honey, then piled high on plates and trays. Some like to form them in the shape of Christmas trees or wreaths, always festively covered with multi-colored candy sprinkles. People who grew up with this traditional Christmas treat go out of their way to make sure there is a struffoli on the holiday table.

• Preparation Time: 45 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Calories: 162 Calories

Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 2 cups honey
• 1 lemon, zested
• ½ cup cane sugar
• ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup multi-colored sprinkles, or more to taste
• 6 jumbo eggs
• ½ orange, zested
• 2 quarts vegetable oil for frying, or as needed
• 5 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (such as King Arthur®)

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine flour, lemon zest, orange zest, baking powder, and salt together in a food processor; pulse to combine. Mix eggs and sugar together in a separate bowl; add 1/3 cup olive oil and vanilla extract and beat again. Mix together with flour mixture using hands to knead.

Step 2

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Heat frying oil in a deep saucepan over medium heat until the temperature reaches 375 degrees F (190 degrees C), about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Transfer dough to a floured work surface; continue to knead sticky dough with floured hands. Flatten dough into a thin loaf about 10 inches long. Cut long ropes from the loaf, then slice ropes into 1/2-inch pieces and transfer to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4

Fry dough pieces in batches in the hot oil until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 5

Heat honey in a saucepan until warm and fluid, about 1 minute. Pour hot honey over struffoli and toss to coat. Sprinkle with multi-colored sprinkles.