Struffoli

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour (2 cups)
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup)
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted)
• Eggs (3 large)
• Grated lemon zest (1 tablespoon)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Honey (1 cup)
• Sprinkles (for decoration)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt until well combined.
2. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients, and add the melted butter, eggs, and lemon zest. Mix together until a soft dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small pieces, and roll each piece into a ball about the size of a marble.
5. In a deep pot or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there's enough oil for the balls to float while frying.
6. Fry the dough balls in small batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown all over. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried balls to paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. In a separate saucepan, heat the honey over low heat until it becomes warm and runny.
8. Once all the dough balls are fried, add them to the pot with warm honey and stir gently until they are fully coated.
9. Transfer the honey-coated struffoli to a serving platter, and decorate with colorful sprinkles before serving.