Ingredients
- 2 cups of water
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- For the custard filling:
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough
In a medium-sized saucepan, bring the water, butter, sugar, and salt to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Step 2: Incorporate the Eggs
Remove the dough from heat and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Then, incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Continue mixing until the dough is smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Form the Pastry Shells
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot to a temperature of around 350°F (180°C). Using a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip, pipe the dough into small circular shapes, about 3 inches in diameter, directly into the hot oil. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown on both sides, turning once during cooking. Remove the zeppole from oil and let them cool on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
Step 4: Prepare the Custard Filling
In a medium saucepan, heat the milk until it starts steaming but is not boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens and reaches a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let the custard cool completely.
Step 5: Assemble the Zeppole
Once the pastry shells and custard filling have cooled, it’s time to assemble the zeppole. Cut a small slit into each shell, large enough for a teaspoon to fit in. Then, using a pastry bag or a small spoon, fill each zeppola with the custard filling.
Step 6: Dust with Powdered Sugar and Serve
Generously dust the zeppole with powdered sugar, creating an even coating. Serve them at room temperature and enjoy the unique taste and texture of Zeppole di San Giuseppe.
Now that you have mastered the art of making Zeppole di San Giuseppe, it’s time to impress your friends and family with these delectable treats on St. Joseph’s Day. Share the love and joy of this traditional Italian dessert with your loved ones!