These Zeppole, ricotta doughnuts are so incredibly light… sweet and crunchy on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside. As an added bonus, they are simply a snap to make at home.
For snowy housebound days these Zeppole, ricotta doughnuts are all you need to cozy up by the warm fireplace.
They’re simple to make, fuss free treat and did I mention so… so delicious!
Zeppole are traditionally eaten during la Festa di San Giuseppe (Saint Joseph’s Day) , which is celebrated every March 19.
They’re also known by other names such as Sfinge, but in my family they were always called castagnole fritte (deep-fried sweet pastry balls).
My mom would make sweet fritters for Easter and savoury fritters filled with anchovies for New Year’s Day.
I love these doughnuts dusted with icing sugar but you can just as easily fill them with jelly, custard or even Nutella. Whichever way you make them, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Simply pile them high on a serving platter, dust with powdered sugar and serve while they’re still warm!
Fair warning, these doughnuts are highly addictive and will disappear in a flash!
You really must try them because they are absolutely delicious!
If you make this recipe remember to tag @marisasitaliankitchen on Instagram so I can see your creation!
Zeppole, Ricotta Doughnuts
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon of all purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 cup ricotta cheese full fat
- 2 large eggs
- canola oil or vegetable oil for deep frying
- powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
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In a Medium sized bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt and the 3 tablespoons of sugar and then set aside.
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In a stand mixer or a hand held mixer, beat together the eggs and the ricotta cheese just until fairly smooth.
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Stir the flour mixture into the ricotta mixture until thoroughly combined.
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In a large heavy pot or a dutch oven, pour in enough oil to reach 2 inches high and heat to 375*. A candy thermometer comes in handy in order to get the right temperature and ensuring the oil does not drop under 350*, while you are frying between batches.
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If the oil is not hot enough the doughnuts will be too soggy and if it is too hot then the outside will darken quickly leaving the inside under cooked.
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Use a 1 1/2 inch scoop or 2 small spoons to drop bits of dough into the hot oil.
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Fry the zeppole for about 2 to 3 minutes, turning often until they are puffed, fluffy and golden brown.
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Larger sized doughnuts will need extra time. Use a slotted spoon to remove the zeppole from the pan and drain them on paper towels. Repeat until you have used up all the batter.
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Dust with icing or powdered sugar and serve while still warm.
Recipe Notes
This recipe was adapted from, Cafe Italia cookbook by Liz Franklin
