Struffoli-Pignolata (aka Honey Balls)

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 14
Struffoli-Pignolata, an Italian Fried Dough Dessert
in Dessert

Prep

45 min

Cook

25 min

Ready In

70 min

Level

Difficult

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

6 eggs ( regular size )
1 tablespoon sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons canola oil
2 1/2 - 3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated lemon , rind of ( optional )
1 quart canola oil ( for fryng )
1 jar honey ( clover or orange blossom )
1 teaspoon freshly grated orange rind ( optional )
flour , for dusting
tiny round colored sprinkles ( for decorating )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
12
Calories
380
Sugar
31g
Fat
17g
Struffoli-Pignolata, also known as Honey Balls, is a traditional Italian dessert that originated in the region of Campania. It is usually served during Christmas and other festive occasions, but can be enjoyed any time of the year. These little fried dough balls are coated in sweet honey and sprinkled with colorful candy or nonpareils. They are a fun and delicious treat that people of all ages will enjoy. Struffoli-Pignolata is not complicated to make, but it does require some patience and skill. It's a great recipe to try if you're looking to impress your guests with an authentic Italian dessert.

Instructions

1.In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until frothy.
2.Add in the canola oil, and mix to combine.
3.In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and optional lemon zest.
4.Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, stirring until it forms a dough.
5.Knead the dough on a floured surface for a few minutes, then roll it into long, thin ropes.
6.Cut the ropes into small pieces, and shape them into little balls.
7.Heat the canola oil in a large pot over medium heat, and fry the dough balls in small batches until they're golden brown.
8.Drain the fried dough balls on paper towels.
9.Heat the honey in a small pot over low heat, and stir in the optional orange zest.
10.Toss the fried dough balls in the honey mixture until they're coated, then transfer them to a serving platter and sprinkle with tiny round sprinkles.

PROS

Struffoli-Pignolata is a unique, sweet dessert that will delight your taste buds.

These little honey balls are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a pleasantly sweet and slightly tangy flavor.

They’re perfect for special occasions, holidays, or any time you’re craving something indulgent.

CONS

This dessert is fried, and therefore high in calories, fat, and sugar.

It should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Also, making this recipe requires a bit of time and effort, so it’s not the quickest or easiest dessert to prepare.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Struffoli-Pignolata is not particularly healthy, but it can be enjoyed as an occasional treat in moderation.
The main health benefit of this dessert is its ability to satisfy your sweet tooth and make you happy. Additionally, honey has some antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for your immune system and digestive health.

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