Struffli

Prep: 20 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Italian

Sweet, golden fried pastries soaked in honey with a rich, tender texture and a hint of warmth from whiskey, perfect for sharing as a delightful dessert or treat.

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Ingredients

  • 4 cups flour
  • 6 egg yolks
  • 4 whole eggs
  • 2 tablespoons whiskey
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • Honey to taste

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
  2. Roll out the dough into 1/2 inch thick rounds.
  3. Cut into pieces and deep fry in 2 quarts of very hot oil until golden brown.
  4. Drain and cool the fried pieces.
  5. Heat honey until runny, then add the fried pieces and lower heat to allow them to absorb honey.
  6. Pile the honey-soaked struffli in dishes, let cool, then top with sprinkles.

Tips & Substitutions

For perfect struffli, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a golden brown color. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute part of the flour with almond flour. Adjust the honey based on your sweetness preference, and feel free to experiment with flavored honey for a unique twist. Always let the dough rest for a bit before rolling to make it easier to handle.

Serving Suggestions

Serve struffli as a festive treat during special occasions or holidays, and consider pairing them with a sweet dessert wine or coffee. They are delightful on their own, but you can also serve them alongside a slice of Pizza Dolce(Italian Cheese Cake) for a delicious dessert spread. Top with colorful sprinkles to make them more appealing for guests.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover struffli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to maintain their texture, avoid refrigerating them, as this can make them soggy. To reheat, gently warm them in a low oven for a few minutes before serving, allowing them to regain some crispness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Struffli contains roughly 1199 calories, with 2g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value).

1199 kcal 60% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.9g 4% DV
Total Fat 121.2g 100% DV
Carbs 31.3g 11% DV
Fiber 1.8g 6% DV
Sugar 4.8g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 43.6mg 2% DV
Potassium 133.6mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 24.3mg 8% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 12.9mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 15.6mg 17% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 36.7mg 3% DV
Iron 0.8mg 5% DV
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 struffli ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and fry the struffli in advance. Just store them in an airtight container until you're ready to soak them in honey. This way, you can enjoy fresh struffli without the last-minute rush.

What can I use instead of whiskey?

If you prefer not to use whiskey, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or a bit of vanilla extract for flavor. Both options will still yield a delicious result, keeping the essence of the dough intact.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

To check if the oil is ready for frying, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface immediately, the oil is hot enough. Alternatively, you can use a thermometer to reach a temperature of around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.

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).

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