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–+ servings
Traditional Struffoli Italian Honey Balls Recipe

Irresistibly Easy Traditional Struffoli Italian Honey Balls Recipe

Course: Everyday Sweet
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: citrus sweets, easy recipes, Holiday Treats, honey balls, Italian dessert, Struffoli
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 24 pieces
Calories: 150kcal
This Traditional Struffoli Italian Honey Balls Recipe delivers crispy, sweet, and colorful treats perfect for any festive gathering.
Print Recipe

Equipment

  • food processor
  • heavy pot
  • thermometer
  • microwave-safe bowl

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour fresh flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar standard white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt enhances flavor
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder for leavening
  • ½ cup unsalted butter room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest fresh
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest fresh
  • 4 large eggs large size
  • ¼ cup Marsala or white wine for flavor

For Frying and Glazing

  • 4 cups canola oil for frying
  • 1 cup honey mild flavor recommended
  • ¼ cup fresh orange juice freshly squeezed
  • nonstick cooking spray for serving
  • rainbow nonpareil sprinkles optional garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Prepare the Dough: Pulse flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder in a food processor until combined.
  • Incorporate Ingredients: Add butter, lemon zest, and orange zest; pulse until sandy texture.
  • Bring the Dough Together: Add eggs and wine, blending until a cohesive dough forms.
  • Chill the Dough: Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Shape the Dough: Divide dough, rolling into ropes; cut and shape into balls.
  • Fry the Dough Balls: Heat oil to 375°F and fry in batches until golden brown.
  • Glaze the Struffoli: Warm honey and mix with orange juice, toss struffoli to coat.
  • Present and Enjoy: Shape into a wreath on a platter and let set before serving.

Notes

Optional garnishes include rainbow sprinkles for a festive look. Ensure to serve fresh for the best experience.

Nutrition

Serving: 2pieces | Calories: 150kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 50mg | Sodium: 90mg | Potassium: 50mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 200IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1mg