Zeppole Recipe (Easy Italian Donuts)

Indulge in the classic Italian treat, Zeppole! These scrumptious fried dough balls are dusted with powdered sugar, providing a sweet and airy delight. Our easy-to-follow recipe guides you through making authentic Italian Zeppole, perfect for parties, festivals, or as a decadent dessert. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll master the art of frying dough to perfection. Discover the secrets to achieving the ideal Zeppole texture, from lightly crispy exteriors to fluffy interiors. Get ready to impress friends and family with your homemade Italian donuts!

Ingredients

1. 1/2 cup water
2. 1/2 cup whole milk
3. 8 Tbsp unsalted butter
4. 1 tsp granulated sugar
5. 1/4 tsp salt
6. 1 cup all-purpose flour
7. 4 large eggs (room temperature)
8. Peanut oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
9. 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a 3-quart saucepan, combine water, milk, butter, sugar and salt. Bring to boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
2. Add Flour: Remove from heat; stir in flour. Return to medium heat; stir 1.5-2 minutes.
3. Cool Dough: Transfer to mixing bowl; beat 1 minute.
4. Add Eggs: Beat in eggs one at a time; smooth dough forms.
5. Pipe Dough: Transfer to piping bag; pipe 1-inch lengths.
6. Fry Zeppole: Fry 4-5 minutes (375°F oil); drain excess oil.
7. Dust: Powder with confectioners’ sugar; serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Authentic Italian flavor: Traditional Zeppole taste.
2. Easy preparation: Simple steps.
3. Light and airy texture: Perfect donut consistency.
4. Customizable: Add flavors or fillings.

Tips

1. Use quality ingredients: Fresh eggs, real butter.
2. Maintain oil temperature: Ensures even frying.
3. Don’t overfry: Zeppole should be lightly golden.
4. Dust immediately: Confectioners’ sugar adheres best.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Flavorings: Add vanilla, lemon zest or cinnamon.
2. Fillings: Nutella, cannoli cream or jam.
3. Alternative oils: Olive or avocado oil.
4. Glazes: Chocolate, caramel or fruit-based.

FAQs

1. Why did my Zeppole collapse?: Insufficient frying time or incorrect oil temperature.
2. Can I bake Zeppole?: Not recommended; frying essential.
3. How long do Zeppole last?: Best consumed within 2 hours.

Serving and Suggestions

1. Dust with powdered sugar: Traditional topping.
2. Serve warm: Optimal texture.
3. Pair with coffee or espresso: Classic Italian combination.
4. Perfect for: Parties, festivals or dessert.