Perfect Struffoli

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• A pinch of salt

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Honey Coating:

• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon water

For Garnish:

• Candied fruits, sprinkles, or nonpareils

Cooking Steps:

Step 1: Prepare Dough In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Knead until a smooth dough forms. Let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Shape Dough Balls Divide the dough into small portions and roll each into thin ropes. Cut the ropes into small pieces and shape them into small balls.

Step 3: Fry Struffoli Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan. Fry the dough balls in batches until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make Honey Coating In a separate saucepan, combine honey, sugar, and water. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Simmer for a few minutes until it forms a slightly thick syrup.

Step 5: Coat Struffoli Add the fried dough balls to the honey syrup and gently toss to coat evenly.

Step 6: Form a Ring or Pile Shape the coated Struffoli into a ring on a serving platter or pile them into a mound. The honey coating will help them stick together.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve Decorate with candied fruits, sprinkles, or nonpareils while the honey is still sticky. Allow it to set before serving.

Enjoy the delightful sweetness of Struffoli, a traditional Italian treat that's perfect for sharing during festive occasions or as a sweet indulgence with family and friends.