What are Zeppole?
Zeppole, also known as Italian doughnuts, are deep-fried pastries made from a simple dough mixture. They are traditionally served during Italian holidays such as Saint Joseph’s Day, but they have become popular worldwide due to their irresistible taste and crunchy texture. These delightful fritters are usually covered in powdered sugar and can be filled with various sweet fillings like Nutella or pastry cream.
Ingredients for Zeppole
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3 large eggs
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a saucepan, bring the water and butter to a boil over medium heat.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the flour mixture all at once. Stir vigorously until a smooth dough forms.
4. Return the saucepan to low heat and continue stirring for 1-2 minutes to cook the dough slightly.
5. Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for 5 minutes.
6. Add the eggs, one at a time, to the dough, beating well after each addition. The dough should be smooth and sticky.
7. In a deep pan or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
8. Using two spoons or a small ice cream scoop, drop small portions of dough into the hot oil. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
9. Fry the zeppole for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on all sides. Flip them gently with a slotted spoon while cooking to ensure even browning.
10. Remove the zeppole from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
11. Dust the zeppole generously with powdered sugar while they are still warm.
Serving and Enjoying Zeppole
Zeppole are best served fresh and warm. They can be enjoyed as is, with their delicious crispy exterior, or you can get creative and fill them with your favorite sweet fillings. One popular option is to inject them with Nutella using a piping bag. Another traditional way to serve zeppole is to dust them with powdered sugar and serve them with a side of honey or chocolate sauce for dipping.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a delightful Italian treat, zeppole will never disappoint. Just follow this guide, and you’ll be on your way to mastering the art of frying zeppole to perfection. Buon appetito!