Struffoli Honey Balls are a delightful Italian dessert traditionally enjoyed during Christmas. These golden, fried dough balls, drenched in honey and sprinkled with colorful nonpareils, bring festive joy to any table. This traditional Struffoli recipe will guide you through creating these sweet, crispy treats that are sure to become a holiday favorite.
Fun Facts
- Struffoli is said to have originated from ancient Greek cuisine.
- The name “Struffoli” is derived from the Greek word “strongoulos,” meaning “rounded.”
Inspirational Quote
“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.” – Auguste Escoffier
Recipe Description
Struffoli Honey Balls are a traditional Italian Christmas dessert that consists of small, fried dough balls coated in honey and decorated with colorful sprinkles. This authentic Italian recipe dates back to ancient Greek times and has been cherished in Italian households for generations. Struffoli is typically enjoyed during the festive season, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. The recipe involves simple ingredients like flour, eggs, and honey, creating a delightful treat that’s both crispy and sweet. Over the years, Struffoli has been adapted in various regions, each adding their unique twist to this classic dessert.
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Coating:
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 orange
- Colorful nonpareils for decoration
- For Frying:
- Vegetable oil
Procedure
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a well in the center and add the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface until smooth.
- Shape the Dough:
- Divide the dough into small portions and roll each into a thin rope.
- Cut the ropes into small pieces, about the size of a marble.
- Fry the Dough:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
- Fry the dough balls in batches until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Coat with Honey:
- In a large saucepan, heat the honey, sugar, and citrus zests over low heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the fried dough balls and stir to coat evenly with the honey mixture.
- Assemble the Struffoli:
- Transfer the coated Struffoli to a serving platter and shape into a mound or wreath.
- Sprinkle with colorful nonpareils.
Conclusion
Enjoy the sweet and festive flavors of Struffoli Honey Balls, a cherished Italian Christmas dessert. This traditional recipe brings the warmth and joy of Italian holidays to your home, making any celebration extra special.
Additional Notes
- Region of Origin: This recipe is inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Naples, Italy.
- Storage: Store any leftover Struffoli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. The flavors will meld beautifully over time.
Tips and Tricks
- Ensure the dough is rolled thinly for evenly sized balls that fry to a perfect crisp.
- Use high-quality honey for the best flavor.
- For an extra touch, add some cinnamon or nutmeg to the honey mixture.
Beverage Pairings
Pair Struffoli Honey Balls with a sweet dessert wine such as Vin Santo or a light Prosecco. A warm cup of espresso also complements the sweetness of the dessert beautifully.
We’d love to hear from you! Have you tried making Struffoli Honey Balls? Share your experience and any tips or variations you’ve tried in the comments below!