Zeppolis(With Ricotta)
Delicious ricotta zeppolis are light, fluffy fried doughnuts with a sweet, tender interior, perfect for sharing during celebrations or as a delightful dessert treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix well to form a very sticky dough.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough into hot oil using your hands.
- Allow the zeppolis to rise to the top as they cook.
- When golden brown, remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
- Sprinkle with confectioners sugar and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your ricotta is well-drained before mixing. If you want a sweeter touch, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract. For a twist, you could use half all-purpose flour and half almond flour. This dough is quite sticky, so wet your hands slightly when shaping the zeppolis for easier handling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve zeppolis warm, dusted with confectioners sugar for a delightful finish. They pair beautifully with a side of Crisp Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a more indulgent treat, try drizzling them with chocolate sauce or honey, or serve alongside Linda's Italian Cookies for a dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover zeppolis in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as they can become soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zeppolis(With Ricotta) contains roughly 410 calories, with 11g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, you can substitute ricotta with mascarpone or cottage cheese, but the texture and flavor will vary. Ensure that any cheese used is well-drained to maintain the right consistency in the dough.
What type of oil is best for frying zeppolis?
For frying zeppolis, use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils allow for a crispy exterior without imparting strong flavors, ensuring the zeppolis shine.
Can I make the dough in advance?
While it's best to fry the zeppolis fresh, you can prepare the dough in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but allow it to come to room temperature before frying for optimal results.
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).