Zeppoli (Italian Fried Bread Dough )

• Total Time: 30 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 12

• 1 (1/4 ounce) package active dry yeast
• 1 cup water
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 quart vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar

Directions:

1. Heat about 3 inches of oil in a saucepan to 375°F (119°C).
2. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup warm water; set aside for 10 minutes.
3. Stir the remaining 1/2 cup water into the bowl.
4. Add flour, beating vigorously until a soft dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a smooth surface, and knead with greased hands until smooth.
6. Place dough in a greased bowl, and turn to coat the surface.
7. Cover with a damp cloth.
8. Let rise in a warm place until double in bulk, about 1 to 1/1/2 hours.
9. Fry golf ball sizes of dough in batches until golden brown.
10. Drain on paper towels.
11. Sprinkle with confectioners' sugar, and eat while still hot.

Reviews

[ChefRed]

The zeppoles turned out perfect and delicious! Just like my Nonna used to make (and like the fairs). Thank-you so much for sharing this recipe.

[Chef #580861 Nesbitt]

My italian bf was impressed with these.His mom used to make them and he had'nt thought of them in years.Brought back good memories for him.I really enjoyed them also.Vey light and crispy. I did something different with 1/2 of the dough.I pulled a ball out and rolled between hands,stretched it into cigar shape,twisted it and fried for maybe 3 minutes.As they came out of the pot, I buttered them and sprinkled garlic powder all over each.Perfect breadsticks!!!!!!!!They went real well with our soup. Thank you for this versital recipe Poppy!It is a keeper for me.

[Chef hippiegramma]

Wow! you don't know how happy I am to see this recipe!My daughter-in-law's father makes this every holiday when he comes to our house.I thought I wrote it down(Duh! I should be able to remember it,it's so easy!)but can't seem to find it...til now!Thanks sooooo much, Poppy, for posting such an oh so easy,unbelievably delicious, addictive delight! Chef Moi