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Struffoli – Italian Honey Balls Recipe

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Struffoli are traditional Italian honey balls, perfect for festive occasions. These small, sweet fried dough balls are coated in warm honey and adorned with colorful sprinkles for a delightful, crunchy treat with a hint of citrus and rum flavor.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 3 cups Italian 00 or all-purpose flour (420g), spooned and leveled
  • ⅓ cup sugar (65g)
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • Zest of one orange
  • 2 tablespoons dark rum
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter (55g)
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For Coating

  • 1 cup honey (300g)
  • Sprinkles, for decoration

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add the lightly beaten eggs, orange zest, dark rum, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until a smooth, elastic dough forms. If necessary, knead on a floured surface until the dough is pliable and not sticky.
  2. Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into thin ropes about ¼ inch thick. Cut the ropes into small pieces approximately ½ inch in length, shaping each piece into tiny balls. Set these aside on a floured surface to prevent sticking.
  3. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to allow the dough balls to float while frying, ensuring even cooking.
  4. Fry the Dough Balls: Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry them for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  5. Coat with Honey: In a separate saucepan, gently warm the honey over low heat until it becomes more liquid and easy to coat. Immediately transfer the fried dough balls into the warm honey, stirring gently to evenly coat each ball.
  6. Assemble and Decorate: Place the honey-coated balls on a serving platter or mold them into a mound or donut shape. Sprinkle with colorful sprinkles while still sticky for a festive touch. Allow the honey to set slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Use Italian 00 flour for a lighter, tender dough or all-purpose flour as a substitute.
  • Dark rum adds a subtle depth of flavor but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Frying temperature is crucial; maintain 350°F to ensure crisp and evenly cooked struffoli.
  • Struffoli can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days but are best enjoyed fresh.
  • Customize toppings with chopped nuts or dried fruit along with sprinkles for variation.

Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/struffoli-italian-honey-balls-recipe/