Zeppole, Italian 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
Directions
- 1
In a Medium sized bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt and the 3 tablespoons of sugar and then set aside.
- 2
In a stand mixer or a hand held mixer, beat together the eggs and the ricotta cheese just until fairly smooth.
- 3
Stir the flour mixture into the ricotta mixture until thoroughly combined.
- 4
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.
- 5
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.
- 6
Use a 1 1/2 inch scoop or 2 small spoons to drop bits of dough into the hot oil.
- 7
Fry the zeppole for about 2 to 3 minutes, turning often until they are puffed, fluffy and golden brown.
- 8
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.
- 9
Dust with icing or powdered sugar and serve while still warm.
Zeppole, Italian Ricotta Doughnuts
Similar Recipes
Ratings & Reviews
Be the First to Rate
Your rating helps others discover amazing recipes. Share your experience and let others know what you think!
About this Recipe
Craving a sweet, pillowy escape that tastes like an Italian dream? These Zeppole, Italian Ricotta Doughnuts, are your answer, delivering an "incredibly light" and utterly delightful treat right from your kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes these ricotta doughnuts truly special is the inclusion of full-fat ricotta cheese. This secret ingredient is key to their signature "incredibly light" and "pillowy soft" interior, creating a delicate texture that's simply irresistible. Paired with a "sweet and crunchy" exterior, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
What to Expect
Prepare for a truly satisfying sensory experience. Each bite offers a delightful contrast: a wonderfully sweet and crisp outer shell giving way to an astonishingly light, airy, and tender interior. These Zeppole are not overly sweet, allowing the subtle richness of the ricotta to shine through. They are described as "simply a snap to make at home," promising a rewarding baking adventure without the fuss. You'll find yourself enjoying a dessert that feels indulgent yet remarkably delicate.
Customization & Variations
This recipe celebrates the simple, pure joy of traditional Zeppole. While the classic finish is a generous dusting of powdered sugar, the beauty of these ricotta doughnuts lies in their inherent lightness and sweet crunch. You might adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your taste, but the elegant simplicity is what makes them truly special.
Serving & Context
These Zeppole are perfect for any occasion that calls for a delightful sweet treat. Serve them warm, freshly dusted with powdered sugar, alongside a strong espresso or a cup of tea for an authentic Italian experience.