How to Make Zeppole with Ricotta - a Southern Italy favorite

ricotta cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: cream cheese

Cottage cheese offers a lighter option with similar texture.

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free alternative.

powdered sugar

🥗Healthier: stevia

💰Cheaper: granulated sugar

Stevia reduces calories while maintaining sweetness.

chocolate

🥗Healthier: dark chocolate

💰Cheaper: chocolate chips

Dark chocolate has antioxidants and can be more intense in flavor.

In a bowl, combine 1 cup of double zero flour, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder. Mix the dry ingredients together.

In a separate bowl, crack open 2 eggs and add 2 tablespoons of white sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk together until combined.

Add 1 cup of ricotta cheese to the egg mixture and blend with a hand blender until creamy.

Combine the dry ingredients with the ricotta egg mixture and mix until a dough forms. It may be a little dry and crumbly at first but will come together.

Heat peanut oil in a pot to 350°F (175°C).

Spoon the zeppole mixture into the hot oil, frying until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Do not overcrowd the pot.

Check the oil temperature regularly to ensure it stays around 350°F. Adjust the heat as necessary.

Once golden brown, remove the zeppole from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Dust the cooked zeppole with powdered sugar before serving.

Taste test the zeppole and adjust sweetness if desired, suggesting 3 tablespoons of sugar for a sweeter batter.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens