Strufoli(Italian Honey Balls)
Strufoli are crispy Italian honey balls, sweet and fragrant with cinnamon and vanilla, perfect for festive occasions or as a delightful treat with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and butter in a bowl.
- Add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well.
- Use the 1/2 cup of flour as needed to make the dough workable.
- Let the dough stand, covered, for 1/2 hour.
- Cut off a handful of dough and roll into a log shape about as thick as your finger and 18 inches long.
- Cut the log into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Fry the pieces in hot oil until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, make sure not to overmix the dough after adding flour. If you want to substitute, you can use almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor, or swap honey with maple syrup for a unique twist. When frying, maintain the oil temperature to ensure even cooking—too low will make them greasy, while too high can burn them quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Strufoli are best served warm and can be garnished with colorful sprinkles or nuts for added texture. They pair beautifully with Italian Herb Bread for a festive spread. For a traditional touch, serve them alongside a cup of espresso or a sweet dessert wine to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Strufoli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until they are warmed through and regain some crispness. Avoid microwaving as it may make them chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strufoli(Italian Honey Balls) contains roughly 1111 calories, with 11g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron.
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 Strufoli ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling and cutting. However, it's best to fry them fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of honey for rolling?
If you're looking for alternatives to honey, you can use agave nectar or warm maple syrup. Both will provide a similar sweetness and stickiness, making them great substitutes for coating the fried dough.
Can I bake Strufoli instead of frying them?
Baking Strufoli is possible, but they won't have the same texture as fried ones. If you choose to bake, shape the dough into small balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden, but expect a denser outcome.
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).