Whiskey-Infused Italian Strufoli
Experience a cherished family tradition with this delectable recipe for Whiskey-Infused Italian Strufoli! Passed down through generations, this old-fashioned Italian dessert is a must-have during the Christmas season. While many variations exist, our unique addition of whiskey elevates the flavor profile, making these sweet treats extra special. Unlike the typical ball shapes, we prefer to twist our strufoli into charming stick shapes, creating a delightful texture that you won’t be able to resist. Whether you decide to deep fry or bake them, these golden bites are finished with a luscious honey glaze and a festive sprinkle of colorful nonpareils, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday festivities.
N/A
Servings
200
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
all purpose flour
2 cups (sifted)
large eggs
3 (beaten)
whiskey
1 1/2 tablespoons
pure vanilla extract
1/2 tablespoon
Crisco shortening
6 tablespoons (softened)
baking powder
2 teaspoons
honey
6 ounces
nonpareils
3 tablespoons (multicolored)
corn oil
as needed (for frying)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder.
2
In another bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, whiskey, vanilla extract, and Crisco shortening until smooth and well-blended.
3
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry flour mixture, mixing continuously until a dough forms into a ball.
4
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5
Divide the dough into three equal pieces. Take one piece and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick, creating a rectangle.
6
Cut the rectangle into strips measuring 1/2 inch wide by 2 inches long. Twist each strip and set it aside, covering with a cloth to prevent drying. Repeat for the remaining dough.
7
In a deep fryer or a heavy pot, heat corn oil to 375°F (190°C). Carefully fry the twisted strips in small batches until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Remove them using a slotted spoon and blot on paper towels.
8
For the honey coating, transfer the fried strufoli into a large pot. Drizzle with honey, heating slightly, and toss until they are evenly coated.
9
Serve the strufoli on a platter, generously sprinkle with multicolored nonpareils, and enjoy this festive treat!
10
Alternatively, if you choose to bake, instead of frying, place the twisted strips on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until golden brown and crunchy. Follow the same honey coating process after baking.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
2.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Whiskey-Infused Italian Strufoli?
It is an old-fashioned Italian dessert traditionally served during the Christmas season, featuring fried or baked dough coated in honey and sprinkles.
What makes this version of strufoli unique?
This recipe includes the addition of whiskey to elevate the flavor profile and uses twisted stick shapes instead of the traditional ball shapes.
Can these strufoli be baked instead of fried?
Yes, you can bake the twisted strips on a parchment-lined cookie sheet at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until golden brown and crunchy.
What is the recommended frying temperature?
The corn oil should be heated to 375°F (190°C) for frying the dough strips.
How long should the dough be kneaded?
The dough should be kneaded on a floured surface for approximately 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
What are the dimensions for cutting the dough strips?
The dough should be cut into strips that are 1/2 inch wide and 2 inches long.
How much whiskey is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 tablespoons of whiskey.
How many eggs are required for the dough?
You will need 3 large eggs, which should be beaten before being added to the wet mixture.
What type of flour is recommended?
The recipe specifies 2 cups of sifted all-purpose flour.
What kind of shortening is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 6 tablespoons of softened Crisco shortening.
How long should the strufoli be fried?
Fry the strips in small batches for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown.
How do you apply the honey coating?
Drizzle the fried or baked strufoli with 6 ounces of honey, heating slightly in a large pot, and toss until evenly coated.
What are nonpareils and how are they used?
Nonpareils are multicolored sprinkles used as a festive topping; 3 tablespoons are sprinkled over the honey-coated strufoli.
What is the calorie count for one serving?
One serving of this strufoli contains approximately 200 calories.
How much fat is in this dessert?
There are 10 grams of fat per serving.
Is there any protein in this recipe?
Yes, each serving provides 2.5 grams of protein.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are a total of 9 ingredients required for this recipe.
What type of oil is used for frying?
The recipe suggests using corn oil as needed for frying.
How thick should the dough be rolled out?
The dough should be rolled out to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
What is the role of baking powder in this recipe?
Two teaspoons of baking powder are added to the flour to help the dough rise slightly and improve texture.
Should the vanilla extract be pure?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for 1/2 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract.
How should the strufoli be handled after frying?
After removing them from the oil with a slotted spoon, they should be blotted on paper towels.
How do you prevent the dough from drying out?
Cover the shaped strips with a cloth while you finish preparing the rest of the dough.
What texture should the finished strufoli have?
They should have a delightful, crunchy texture on the outside with a golden finish.
Is this recipe considered traditional?
Yes, it is an old-fashioned Italian tradition, though this specific version adds whiskey and a unique twist shape.
How many pieces should the dough be divided into initially?
The dough should be divided into three equal pieces before rolling and cutting.
What equipment is recommended for the honey coating process?
A large pot is used to transfer the strufoli and heat the honey for even tossing.
Are there any specific preparation steps for the eggs?
Yes, the eggs should be beaten before whisking them with the other wet ingredients.
Can I serve this on a platter?
Yes, it is traditionally served on a platter and garnished with nonpareils.
What holiday is this dessert most associated with?
This dessert is a staple of the Christmas holiday season in Italian traditions.