Struffoli O Cicerchiata Italian Honey Dough Balls Food

STRUFFOLI ITALIAN HONEY BALLS

Steps:

• In a large bowl whisk together the flour, the baking powder and the salt, then add the butter, orange zest, sugar and Grand Marnier (or orange juice), start to combine with a fork until crumbly.
• Add the eggs one at a time and mix to combine, when almost combined move the mix to a lightly floured flat surface add an extra 1 - 1/2 tablespoons flour and knead together to form a soft dough. Cover with a clean tea towel and let rest 30 minutes.
• Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll into thin ropes 1/4 inch in diameter. Cut to make small cubes and roll each cube into a ball slightly smaller than a marble. Try to make them all the same size.
• In a medium pot add 2-3 inches of oil and heat to 350°F add the struffoli (in batches) turning a couple of times and when golden drain on a paper towel lined plate and let cool.
• While struffoli are cooling in a large pan on low / medium heat, heat the honey until warm and slightly watery. Add the cooled struffoli and mix to coat, then sprinkle with sprinkles and slivered almonds.
• Then form the honey balls into desired shape, dome, donut (see video)** pyramid. It is best to oil the glass before placing it in the middle of the plate. Let the finished Struffoli sit until the honey solidifies (approximately 1 1/2 - 2 hours) and then serve. Enjoy!

ITALIAN HONEY BALLS (PIGNOLATA OR STRUFFOLI)

Steps:

• Mix dough ingredients well. Knead on floured board. Let dough rest for a while.
• Roll dough into 1/4 inch thick pieces.
• Cut dough into 1/4 strips and roll thin (thinner than a pencil).
• Cut off pieces of rolls making tiny pieces (smaller than peas).
• Deep fry in oil. Drain well on paper towels.
• Meanwhile heat honey and sugar. Boil for 15 minutes.
• Stir hot syrup into dough pieces. Stir in almonds.
• Using finger tips dipped in ice water carefully pour mixture onto board. Make into individual size cirles (golf ball size).
• Warning this is very hot so use cooled fingers and spatula to shape but you must work quickly as it hardens quickly.
• Some put sprinkles on top but that is optional.