What are Sicilian Zeppole?
Sicilian zeppole are deep-fried pastries that are traditionally made during the St. Joseph’s Day feast in Sicily. They are light and airy on the inside and have a crispy outer shell, making them a textural delight. The dough is flavored with lemon zest and vanilla, giving them a refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with their sweet fillings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup water
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 4 large eggs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Granulated sugar, for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the water and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted.
3. Add the flour mixture to the saucepan and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a ball of dough.
4. Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for a few minutes.
5. Add the eggs, one at a time, to the dough, beating well after each addition.
6. Stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract.
7. Fill a large pot with vegetable oil and heat it to 375°F (190°C).
8. Using an ice cream scoop or a tablespoon, drop small portions of dough into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, turning them occasionally for even cooking.
9. Remove the zeppole from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
10. While still warm, roll the zeppole in granulated sugar until coated evenly.
Serving and Variations
Sicilian zeppole are best served warm and fresh. They are often filled with sweet ricotta cream or pastry cream, and sometimes drizzled with honey or chocolate sauce for an extra touch of decadence. You can also experiment with different fillings like Nutella, fruit preserves, or even savory fillings like cheese or cured meats.
So, why not bring a taste of Sicily to your kitchen? With this guide, you’re well on your way to mastering the art of making authentic Sicilian zeppole. Enjoy the process, experiment with fillings, and savor the heavenly flavors!