Traditional Italian Honey Balls

Strufoli II is a traditional Italian holiday dessert made with fried dough balls, coated in honey and sprinkled with festive sprinkles. This sweet treat is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and filled with a burst of honey flavor. It is a staple at Italian holiday celebrations and is often served alongside other festive desserts. With a preparing time of around 40 minutes, this recipe is relatively quick and easy to make. Enjoy these delightful honey balls as a delicious end to any meal or as a sweet snack during the holiday season.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cups vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup sprinkles

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and melted butter until a dough forms.
2. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into small, walnut-sized pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
4. In a deep pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
5. Working in batches, carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried dough balls onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. In a separate saucepan, heat the honey over low heat until warm and fluid.
8. Add the fried dough balls into the saucepan with the warm honey and gently toss until all the balls are coated.
9. Transfer the honey-coated dough balls onto a serving platter and sprinkle with festive sprinkles.
10. Allow the strufoli to cool and serve at room temperature.

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