Grandma Helen’s Struffoli
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12
Yield: 1 Large Holiday Platter
Description:
Grandma Helen’s Struffoli is a cherished Italian Christmas tradition, passed down through generations in my family. This delightful dessert is not only a holiday favorite but also makes for a thoughtful and festive gift. The recipe is tried and true, ensuring a taste of nostalgia and joy with every bite.
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 cups | Flour |
| 1/2 tsp | Baking Powder |
| 4 tbsp | Sugar |
| 4 | Eggs |
| 2 tbsp | Vinegar |
| 1 tsp | Vanilla Extract |
| 1/2 cup | Honey |
| 1 | Shortening |
| 3 cups | Oil (for frying) |
Instructions:
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and sugar.
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Add Liquid Ingredients: Incorporate eggs, vinegar, vanilla extract, and shortening into the dry ingredients to form a dough.
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Knead Dough: Knead the dough well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
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Prepare Balls: Roll out the dough into 1/4 inch round strips resembling pencils. Cut the strips into small pieces at intervals, adjusting the spacing based on your preference for the size of the balls.
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Shape Balls: You have two options for shaping the balls:
- Leave them with the angled cut for a unique look during frying.
- Roll the pieces in your palms to form perfectly rounded balls.
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Prepare Ribbons: Cut some dough into flat strips, approximately 1/2 inch wide, preferably using a crimped edge cutting wheel for a fancy serrated edge. Shape the strips into loops or bows.
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Fry Balls and Ribbons: Deep fry the balls and ribbons separately in hot oil until golden brown. The ribbons will cook quicker due to their flat shape.
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Drain Excess Oil: Place the fried balls and ribbons on absorbent paper to drain any excess oil.
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Warm Honey: Heat the honey in a deep pot until it starts to thin out and become pourable. Remove from heat.
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Coat with Honey: Dip the ribbons in warm honey and set aside. Add the fried balls to the honey and toss to coat evenly.
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Assemble Platter: Transfer the coated balls to a large holiday platter. Top with the honey-coated ribbons and bows.
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Decorate: Get creative with your presentation! Arrange the balls to resemble a Christmas tree and adorn the sides with bows. Sprinkle multi-colored sprinkles for a festive touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 386.7
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Cholesterol: 62mg
- Sodium: 42.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 90.1g
- Fiber: 0.7g
- Sugar: 73.9g
- Protein: 4.5g
Recipe Notes:
- Struffoli can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several days.
- Feel free to customize your Struffoli by adding nuts, candied fruits, or chocolate chips to the dough.
- This recipe can also be adapted for other holidays or special occasions by using themed sprinkles or decorations.
Indulge in the warmth and sweetness of Grandma Helen’s Struffoli, a festive treat that embodies the spirit of the holiday season! 🎄✨
