Description
Italian Zeppole are light, fluffy fried dough treats with a crisp golden exterior and a soft, tender center. Served warm with a generous dusting of powdered sugar, they make a classic Italian dessert perfect for holidays, gatherings, or any sweet craving.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vegetable oil, for frying
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a thick, smooth batter forms.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully drop portions of batter into the hot oil.
- Fry the zeppole in batches for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until evenly golden brown.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Allow to cool slightly, then generously dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Notes
Add lemon or orange zest for a fresh citrus flavor.
Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
Serve with chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, Nutella, fruit preserves, or whipped cream.
Fill cooled zeppole with pastry cream, chocolate cream, or sweet ricotta for a bakery-style variation.
Store leftovers at room temperature for up to 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for 4 to 6 minutes and dust with fresh powdered sugar before serving.
Freeze cooked zeppole without powdered sugar for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Deep Fry
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 190 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
