Struffoli Recipe Cooking With Nonna: Traditional Italian Treat

There’s something truly magical about cooking with nonna, especially when it comes to traditional Italian holiday treats like Struffoli. This delightful Neapolitan dessert, consisting of tiny fried dough balls drenched in honey and adorned with colorful sprinkles and candied fruit, is a festive staple that brings families together.

My nonna’s kitchen always fills with laughter, stories, and the warm aroma of sweet honey as we prepare this beloved recipe passed down through generations. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, making struffoli with nonna’s guidance is a heartwarming experience that captures the essence of Italian heritage and celebration.

In this post, I’ll walk you through every step to create perfect, crunchy struffoli that melt in your mouth and make the holiday season extra special. Plus, I’ll share tips and variations to customize your struffoli and serve it in style.

Let’s dive into this sweet adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Struffoli is more than just a dessert — it’s a tradition filled with love and joy. Here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:

• Authentic Flavor: Made with simple ingredients and honey, struffoli offers a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.
• Easy to Make: The dough is straightforward to prepare, and frying the tiny balls is fun and rewarding.
• Customizable: You can add your favorite candied fruits or nuts to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Holidays: Its festive appearance with sprinkles makes it ideal for Christmas or any celebration.
• Family Tradition: Cooking with nonna connects you to Italian culture and creates lasting memories.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons white wine or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• Vegetable oil, for frying (about 4 cups)
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup mixed candied fruit (chopped)
• Colorful nonpareils or sprinkles, for garnish

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or dough scraper
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• Deep frying pan or heavy-bottomed pot
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Large serving plate or bowl
• Small saucepan (for warming honey)

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, and white wine (or lemon juice).
2. Mix until combined: Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gently mix the ingredients until a sticky dough forms. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle with a bit more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
4. Shape the struffoli: Divide the dough into small portions. Roll each portion into long thin logs about 1/4 inch thick. Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the logs into tiny 1/2 inch pieces.
5. Heat the oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature for best results.
6. Fry the dough balls: Carefully add small batches of dough pieces to the hot oil. Fry until they turn golden brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes. Stir gently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
7. Drain and cool: Use a slotted spoon to remove fried struffoli and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Warm the honey: In a small saucepan, gently warm the honey until it becomes liquid and easy to pour. Do not boil.
9. Coat the struffoli: Transfer the fried dough balls to a large bowl. Pour the warm honey over them and toss gently to coat evenly.
10. Add candied fruit and sprinkles: Mix in the chopped candied fruit and sprinkle colorful nonpareils on top for a festive look.
11. Shape and serve: Mold the struffoli into a mound or ring shape on a serving plate. Let it cool completely so the honey sets slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For the crispiest struffoli, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying, and don’t overcrowd the pan.”

• Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for a citrusy aroma.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but expect a slightly different texture.
• Vegan Variation: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use vegan butter.
• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pistachios on top for extra crunch.
• Honey Alternatives: Use maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer a different sweetener.
• Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the finished struffoli.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Struffoli is best served at room temperature, allowing the honey to set into a sticky, sweet coating that holds the crunchy balls together. Here are some ideas to elevate your struffoli presentation:

• Serve on a decorative platter shaped into a wreath or pyramid for a festive touch.
• Pair with a cup of espresso or sweet dessert wine to balance the sweetness.
• Arrange alongside other Italian holiday treats like Best Vegan Christmas Cake Recipes for Festive Baking.
• Use struffoli as a centerpiece dessert at your family gathering to spark conversations about heritage and tradition.

Conclusion

Making struffoli with nonna is more than just baking — it’s a celebration of culture, family, and love. This simple yet delightful recipe brings the warmth of Italian holidays into your home, filling the kitchen with the scent of honey and the sound of laughter.

Whether you’re recreating a cherished family tradition or discovering struffoli for the first time, the crunchy, sweet dough balls coated in golden honey will surely become a beloved treat for years to come.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the flavors and decorations to make this recipe your own. And as you enjoy your struffoli, why not explore other delicious recipes on our site like Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals, or Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas to round out your meal with wholesome, flavorful dishes.

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