The Best Easy Soft Zeppole Recipe: Light and Irresistible Italian Donut Holes Recipe
Introduction
These soft zeppole are light, airy Italian treats that melt in your mouth. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, they bring the authentic taste of a classic dessert straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tablespoon Baking Powder
- 1 pinch Salt
- 1 cup White Sugar
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 cups Vegetable Oil (for frying)
- 1 cup Confectioners Sugar or Cinnamon Sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, beat the eggs until they are foamy and slightly thickened.
- Step 2: Stir in the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is just combined.
- Step 3: Gently fold in the ricotta cheese until evenly incorporated.
- Step 4: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 5: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully drop portions of the batter into the hot oil.
- Step 6: Fry the zeppole for 3 to 4 minutes, turning frequently, until they are golden brown on all sides.
- Step 7: Drain the fried zeppole on paper towels, then dust them with confectioners sugar or cinnamon sugar while still warm.
Tips & Variations
- Use full-fat ricotta for the best texture and richer flavor.
- Make sure your oil is at the correct temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked zeppole.
- Try dusting with cinnamon sugar for a spiced twist on the classic recipe.
Storage
Store leftover zeppole in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a warm oven to restore some of their softness, but they’re best enjoyed fresh.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?
Ricotta’s light and creamy texture is key for soft zeppole. While alternatives like cream cheese can be used, they will change the texture and flavor of the final product.
What’s the best way to tell when the oil is ready for frying?
Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain a steady 375°F (190°C). If you don’t have one, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface quickly without burning.
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The Best Easy Soft Zeppole Recipe: Light and Irresistible Italian Donut Holes Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This easy soft zeppole recipe yields light, airy Italian donut holes that are perfect for a delightful dessert or sweet treat. With a tender ricotta-infused batter fried to golden perfection and dusted with confectioners’ or cinnamon sugar, these zeppole are irresistibly soft and flavorful.
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 2 large Eggs – Use fresh eggs for the best rise.
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour – Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level off.
- 1 tablespoon Baking Powder – Replace every 6-12 months for effectiveness.
- 1 pinch Salt – Just a pinch is sufficient.
- 1 cup White Sugar – Adjust to taste.
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese – Use full-fat for the best results.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Opt for pure vanilla for enhanced taste.
For Frying and Dusting
- 2 cups Vegetable Oil – Choose oil with a high smoke point.
- 1 cup Confectioners Sugar or Cinnamon Sugar – Dust while warm.
Instructions
- Beat the Eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs until foamy and slightly thickened to incorporate air, which helps create a light texture.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and white sugar along with vanilla extract to the eggs, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the batter.
- Fold in Ricotta: Gently fold in the ricotta cheese until evenly distributed throughout the batter, adding moisture and richness for a soft texture.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat to 375°F using a deep-fry thermometer to ensure optimal frying temperature.
- Scoop the Batter: Use a small cookie scoop to drop rounded portions of the batter carefully into the hot oil, maintaining consistent sizes for even cooking.
- Fry Until Golden: Fry the zeppole for approximately 3-4 minutes, turning frequently so they brown evenly and develop a crisp exterior.
- Drain and Dust: Remove the zeppole from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. While still warm, dust generously with confectioners’ sugar or cinnamon sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Enjoy zeppole fresh for the best soft and airy texture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day; they are best eaten the same day to maintain freshness.
- Use full-fat ricotta cheese for the richest flavor and best texture.
- Maintain oil temperature at 375°F to ensure proper frying without absorbing excess oil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts & Sweets
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: zeppole, Italian donut holes, ricotta desserts, fried dough, soft zeppole, easy Italian treats, homemade zeppole
