Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring to form a soft dough.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for a few minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into four equal parts and cover them with a clean kitchen towel to prevent drying.
6. Take one part of the dough and roll it out into a thin sheet using a rolling pin.
7. Cut the dough into rectangular strips, approximately 2 inches wide and 4 inches long.
8. Use a knife or a pastry wheel to make 2-3 parallel cuts in the center of each strip.
9. Heat vegetable oil in a deep saucepan or a fryer to 350°F (175°C).
10. Carefully drop a few strips of dough into the hot oil and fry them until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
11. Remove the fried chiacchiere from the oil using a slotted spoon, and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
12. Repeat steps 9-11 until all the dough has been fried.
13. Once the chiacchiere have cooled slightly, dust them generously with powdered sugar.
14. Serve the sweet chiacchiere as a delightful treat for dessert or alongside a cup of coffee.
15. Enjoy these crispy Italian pastries and transport yourself to the streets of Italy with every bite!
Final Thoughts
Making sweet chiacchiere at home is easier than you might think! With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you can recreate this traditional Italian treat in your own kitchen. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these crispy pastries are sure to impress. So, why not give this recipe a try and discover the deliciousness of sweet chiacchiere yourself?