The first hint of winter’s chill always stirs a deep nostalgia in me, reminding me of the warm kitchens where family gathered to create something truly special. This is how my infatuation with Struffoli began—a delightful Neapolitan dessert that transforms the holiday spirit into bite-sized pieces of joy. With their crispy, golden exteriors and luscious honey glaze, these little gems encapsulate zesty notes of lemon and orange, making each bite a celebration of flavor.
During the bustling holiday season, as the scent of fried dough mingles with laughter and chatter, Struffoli shine as a fun, easy-to-make treat that everyone can help prepare. Whether you’re crafting a stunning wreath of sweetened dough to grace your dessert table or sharing them with friends, the vibrant colors from sprinkles add a festive touch that’s impossible to resist. Embrace the joy of this sweet journey, and let’s delve into the delightful world of Struffoli together!
Why will you love Struffoli?
Simple Process: Making Struffoli is a walk in the park with minimal ingredients and straightforward steps.
Festive Appeal: Their beautiful wreath shape and colorful sprinkles bring a vibrant touch to any dessert table.
Flavor Explosion: A harmonious blend of citrus notes with a sweet honey glaze creates a delightful taste sensation.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether with family or friends, this recipe involves everyone, making memories while cooking together.
Versatile Treat: Customize your Struffoli with flavored honeys or nuts for a personalized touch, ensuring they appeal to all tastes.
Struffoli Ingredients
• Get ready to create magic!
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure; add extra for rolling if needed.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough.
- Kosher salt – Balances and enhances flavors.
- Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent for lightness.
- Unsalted butter – Contributes richness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Lemon zest – Infuses a fresh, citrusy aroma and flavor.
- Orange zest – Complements with a touch of sweetness and brightness.
- Large eggs – Bind the ingredients and add moisture.
- Marsala or white wine – Enhances the flavor profile with unique depth.
For Frying
- Canola oil – Essential for deep frying the dough.
- Nonstick cooking spray – Prevents sticking during frying.
For the Glaze
- Honey – Provides a sweet, sticky glaze; key for that signature Struffoli finish.
- Fresh orange juice – Adds innovation in flavor and moisture.
For Decoration
- Rainbow nonpareil sprinkles – Perfect for adding a festive, colorful touch to your Struffoli.
How to Make Struffoli
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Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Then, cut in the butter using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the lemon zest, orange zest, eggs, and Marsala (or white wine) to the dry ingredients. Mix until a cohesive dough forms, about 2 minutes; it should be smooth yet slightly tacky to the touch.
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Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into manageable portions and roll each piece into small balls, roughly the size of a marble. You should aim for about 1-inch pieces so they fry evenly.
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Heat Oil: In a deep pot or fryer, heat the canola oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy—this temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown finish.
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Fry the Balls: Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 3-5 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and puff up nicely. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot!
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Drain and Cool: Using a spider strainer, remove the struffoli from the oil, letting the excess oil drain off. Place them on paper towels to capture any lingering grease.
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Glaze with Honey: In a large bowl, mix the fried struffoli with honey and fresh orange juice. Toss gently until they are beautifully coated—this sweet glaze will enhance their flavor!
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Shape and Decorate: Form the glazed struffoli into a wreath shape on a serving dish. Finally, generously sprinkle rainbow nonpareil sprinkles over the top for a festive look.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of extra honey for added sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Struffoli are a fantastic choice for meal prep, perfect for busy holiday seasons! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance, storing it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can fry the struffoli and let them cool completely, then glaze them up to 3 days prior to serving. To maintain their fluffy texture, simply refrigerate the glazed struffoli in an airtight container. When ready to serve, allow them to come to room temperature and add a sprinkle of colored nonpareil sprinkles to bring back their festive charm. By prepping ahead, you can enjoy more time with family while still serving a delicious homemade treat!
How to Store and Freeze Struffoli
- Room Temperature: Struffoli are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. This maintains their delightful texture.
- Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate Struffoli for up to a week. Ensure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Struffoli in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and re-glaze with honey before serving for freshness.
- Reheating: To enjoy your Struffoli warm, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
Expert Tips for Struffoli
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Proper Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is at 350°F (175°C) for the perfect fry; too hot can burn, while too cool can lead to greasy struffoli.
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Right Dough Consistency: Your dough should be slightly tacky but not overly sticky. Adjust with a little more flour if necessary to achieve this balance.
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Batch Frying: Fry your dough balls in batches to avoid overcrowding, which ensures even cooking and fantastic texture in your struffoli.
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Coating Technique: Gently toss the fried struffoli with honey and orange juice. Too vigorous mixing can break them apart, so be delicate!
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Involve Everyone: Get loved ones in the kitchen to help shape the dough; this turns the process into a cherished family tradition that enhances the joy of making struffoli together.
Flavorful Struffoli Variations
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen and adapt these delightful Struffoli choices to your taste preferences!
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Alcohol-Free: Replace Marsala wine with apple cider for a non-alcoholic twist that still adds depth of flavor.
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Nutty Addition: Incorporate crushed pistachios or almonds into the dough for delightful crunch and added richness.
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Citrus Burst: Enhance flavor by adding a splash of lemon or orange juice directly to the dough for extra zestiness.
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Chocolate Delight: Drizzle melted chocolate over the honey-glazed Struffoli for a rich, indulgent variation that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Spice It Up: Include a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the dough for a warm, aromatic flavor that evokes holiday nostalgia.
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Fruity Twist: Fold in dried fruits like cranberries or apricots into the glaze for a chewy texture and a hint of natural sweetness.
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Flavored Honey: Experiment with unique flavored honeys, such as lavender or citrus-infused, for a captivating glaze that surprises the palate.
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Heat Level: For those who enjoy a kick, add a hint of cayenne or chili powder to the dough for an exciting sweet-and-spicy contrast.
What to Serve with Struffoli?
Struffoli make for a scrumptious centerpiece, but pairing them with the right sides or accompaniments elevates your holiday spread.
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Ricotta Cheesecake: Its light and creamy texture complements the crispy, honey-drenched struffoli, providing a delightful contrast. Plus, the subtle flavor of ricotta ties in beautifully with the citrus notes in your dessert.
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Festive Fruit Salad: A vibrant assortment of fresh fruits, like pomegranate and citrus, adds a refreshing burst to your meal, balancing the sweetness of struffoli. The colors invite joy, perfectly matching the festive spirit.
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Italian Coffee or Espresso: A warm, robust cup of coffee serves as an ideal accompaniment to struffoli, enhancing the dessert’s flavors while providing a cozy, comforting experience after a holiday feast.
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Panettone: This classic Italian sweet bread offers a lovely texture and a hint of fruitiness. Served alongside struffoli, it presents a traditional flavor profile that enhances the festive atmosphere.
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Gelato: A scoop of creamy vanilla or citrus gelato adds a luxurious touch. You could even drizzle a bit of extra honey over it for a beautiful finish that ties all the flavors together.
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Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced drink not only warms the heart but complements the honey and citrus in your struffoli, creating a harmonious seasonal pairing that fills the room with scent and cheer.
Struffoli Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ingredients are fresh and ready to use?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, look for all-purpose flour that is free from clumps and stored in a cool, dry place. For butter, ensure it is at room temperature for easy incorporation. Fresh citrus should have vibrant color and a firm texture without dark spots or blemishes. If you’re using eggs, they should be clean and free from any cracks. Lastly, use Marsala or white wine that smells fresh; avoid any that has a sour or off odor.
How should I store leftover Struffoli?
Very good question! Struffoli are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for about 3 days, but if you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure to keep them sealed to prevent them from getting dry or hard.
Can I freeze Struffoli, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! Here’s how: First, arrange your Struffoli in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 2-3 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the Struffoli in the fridge overnight, then re-glaze with honey and fresh orange juice for added flavor before serving.
What should I do if my Struffoli turned out too greasy?
If your Struffoli came out a bit greasy, it’s possible the oil temperature was too low during frying. Next time, ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) before adding the dough balls. If they are already greasy, let them cool on paper towels to absorb excess oil, and consider tossing them in a bit more honey to enhance their sweetness and flavor!
Are there any dietary considerations for my pets or allergies I should be aware of?
Great thought! While Struffoli is a delicious treat for humans, it’s not safe for pets due to ingredients like honey and the high sugar content. If you are concerned about allergies, double-check the labels on your ingredients—especially for items like eggs and flour, and always consult with a medical professional for specific dietary needs.
Can I use different types of flour?
Of course! If you want to experiment, you can use alternative flours like almond flour for a gluten-free version, but keep in mind the texture will change. With almond flour, your Struffoli may be denser; you might need to adjust the egg content to help bind them better. Feel free to get creative while keeping the overall balance of moisture right!
Delightful Struffoli: Your Easy Guide to Festive Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Then, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—a process that should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the lemon zest, orange zest, eggs, and Marsala (or white wine) to the dry ingredients. Mix until a cohesive dough forms, about 2 minutes; it should be smooth yet slightly tacky.
- Divide the dough into manageable portions and roll each piece into small balls, roughly the size of a marble, aiming for about 1-inch pieces.
- In a deep pot or fryer, heat the canola oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Using a spider strainer, remove the struffoli from the oil, letting excess oil drain off. Place them on paper towels.
- In a large bowl, mix the fried struffoli with honey and fresh orange juice. Toss gently until beautifully coated.
- Form the glazed struffoli into a wreath shape on a serving dish and sprinkle rainbow nonpareil sprinkles over the top.