Italian Grandma Makes Zeppole (Italian Doughnuts)

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.

Combine water, butter, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat until boiling.

Add flour to the boiling mixture and stir vigorously until a dough forms.

Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.

Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth after each addition.

Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.

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

Pipe small circles of dough into the hot oil, frying until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.

Remove zeppole from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Let cool slightly before filling with ricotta cheese mixture.

Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.

Optionally, drizzle with melted chocolate or top with whipped cream.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens