Description
Easy Ricotta Zeppole (Italian Donuts) are light, fluffy, and golden fried Italian treats made from ricotta cheese dough. These airy donuts are gently fried and dusted with powdered sugar, delivering authentic Italian flavor with a tender, moist texture. Perfect for any occasion, this simple recipe is quick to prepare and highly customizable with various toppings and flavor variations.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (fresh, drained)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil (for frying, enough for 2 inches deep in a pot)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, and eggs. Mix until smooth and well incorporated. Add baking powder, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, stirring gently to bring all flavors together. Gradually fold in the flour until you get a soft, slightly sticky dough that’s easy to scoop.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep saucepan or fryer, ensuring it’s at least 2 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) — the perfect temperature to ensure the zeppole cook evenly without absorbing too much oil.
- Fry the Donuts: Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, gently drop dollops of dough into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each zeppola for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and puffed up.
- Drain and Dust: Remove the fried donuts with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. While still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar to capture that classic look and sweet finish.
Notes
- Use fresh ricotta: Fresh ricotta provides the best texture and flavor, avoiding watery dough.
- Maintain oil temperature: Keep the oil steady at 350°F to ensure perfect frying without greasy donuts.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to keep the zeppole soft and airy.
- Fry in small batches: Prevent overcrowding to allow even cooking and maintain oil temperature.
- Serve fresh: Enjoy the zeppole warm for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 zeppola
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg