St. Joseph'S Zeppole
St. Joseph's Zeppole are delightful Italian pastries that celebrate the feast of St. Joseph. These deep-fried or baked doughnuts are light and airy, with a rich buttery flavor and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for gatherings or special occasions, they can be filled with cream or fruit for an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine water, butter, sugar, and salt in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Add flour all at once, then beat with a wooden spoon for 1 minute or until the mixture leaves the sides of the pan and forms a ball. Cool the mixture.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each egg, until the mixture has a satin-like sheen.
- Use a pastry bag with a large star tip and fill it with the mixture.
- Make a doughnut shape with the pastry bag on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake in a 400° oven for 20 minutes or until puffed and well browned.
- Cool.
- Slice each zeppole in half and fill with your desired filling.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh eggs and ensure the butter is completely melted before adding flour. If you're short on time, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cake flour for a lighter texture. Keep the dough cool to prevent it from becoming too runny. If you prefer a sweeter treat, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your zeppole filled with sweetened ricotta or whipped cream for a traditional touch. They pair beautifully with Lucy Policella'S Ricotta Cheese Cake for a delightful dessert spread. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, and consider drizzling with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover zeppole in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If they start to lose their crispness, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their texture. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of St. Joseph'S Zeppole contains roughly 433 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 34g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make zeppole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. However, it's best to bake them fresh for optimal texture. If making ahead, fill them just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What fillings work best for zeppole?
Common fillings include sweetened ricotta, pastry cream, or even custard. You can also try fruit preserves or chocolate ganache for a creative twist. Experiment with flavors to find your favorite combination.
Can I freeze zeppole?
Yes, you can freeze baked zeppole. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).