St. Joseph's Zeppole
Zeppole di San Giuseppe - Delicious ricotta donuts
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 10-12 donuts
Zeppole di San Giuseppe are a traditional Italian delicacy, perfect for celebrating Saint Joseph's Day, but can be enjoyed at any time. These fluffy donuts, filled with ricotta and flavored with vanilla, are dusted with powdered sugar and can be served warm or at room temperature. I invite you to discover how to prepare them step by step!
Ingredients:
- 250 ml sunflower oil (for frying)
- 3 large eggs
- 250 g ricotta (preferably fresh)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or seeds from a vanilla pod)
- 250 g flour (sifted)
- A pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for decoration
Step by step:
1. Preparing the oil: In a deep pot, pour the sunflower oil and heat it over medium heat. Use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature. The oil should reach about 190 degrees Celsius. It is essential that the oil temperature is correct to achieve donuts that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
2. Preparing the mixture: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the ricotta and vanilla extract until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Ensure that the ricotta is well mashed to avoid large chunks.
3. Adding the flour: Gradually incorporate the sifted flour and salt into the egg and ricotta mixture. Use a spatula or whisk to mix until the ingredients are well combined. The mixture should be consistent but not too dense. If necessary, you can adjust with a little milk to achieve the desired texture.
4. Shaping the donuts: Using two spoons, take portions of the mixture and form round donuts. Ensure that the size is uniform for even frying time.
5. Frying: When the oil has reached the desired temperature, carefully add the donuts to the hot oil. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden. Do not overcrowd the pan, as the donuts need space to expand.
6. Draining: After the donuts are fried, remove them with a slotted spatula and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
7. Serving: When the donuts are still warm, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance and sweet taste. You can also add chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Useful tips:
- Filled version: You can fill the donuts with chocolate cream or vanilla cream to transform them into an even more decadent dessert.
- Flavoring: Instead of vanilla, you can use lemon or orange zest to add a fresh note to the donuts.
- Storage: The donuts can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh, straight after frying.
With this recipe for Zeppole di San Giuseppe, you will bring a touch of Italian tradition to your kitchen, enjoying a quick and simple dessert that is full of flavor. Savor them with loved ones and turn every bite into an unforgettable memory!
The oil is placed in a pot and heated to about 190 degrees. In a bowl, beat the eggs and mix them with ricotta and vanilla, then add the sifted flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Gently mix with a wooden spoon until homogenized. The dough is sticky. Using a spoon, scoop some dough and place it in the hot oil. The doughnuts turn themselves in the oil for about 3-4 minutes until they become golden brown. They are dusted with powdered sugar. When ready, they are filled with ricotta mixed with sugar, candied fruits, or pieces of chocolate. They are similar to doughnuts and are made and eaten only once a year, on Saint Joseph's Day. They are served warm or cold as a dessert. The recipe Zeppole di San Giuseppe was proposed by Cristina-Simona on the recipe forum.
Ingredients: oil for frying, 1 cup flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, a pinch of salt, 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar, 2 beaten eggs, 1 cup ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, half a cup of powdered sugar
