These classic Italian struffoli are made up of tiny, crisp fried dough balls tossed in warm honey and finished with festive sprinkles. Light, golden, and delicately scented with citrus zest, this traditional dessert shines when coated in Honey House Clover Honey, whose mild floral sweetness complements the fried dough without overpowering it. Perfect for holidays and special gatherings, struffoli are meant to be shared.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Italian struffoli made using a traditional method

• Light, crisp texture that stays tender inside

• Coated in Honey House Clover Honey for clean, natural sweetness

• Naturally festive and perfect for celebrations

• Made with simple pantry ingredients

• Can be shaped into a mound or decorative wreath

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 1/2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

• Zest of 1 orange

• Pinch of salt

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 tbsp olive oil
  

For Frying

• Neutral oil (vegetable, light olive oil, or sunflower), for deep frying

For the Honey Syrup Coating

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• ¾ cup Honey House Clover Honey

For Decorating (Optional)

• Colored sprinkles

• Candied citrus peel

Equipment

• Mixing bowl

• Fork

• Clean work surface

• Sharp knife

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan

• Slotted spoon

• Paper towels

• Serving platter

Pro Tips

1. Rest the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest makes it easier to roll and cut evenly.

2. Keep Pieces Small: Pea-sized dough ensures even cooking and a light texture.

3. Oil Temperature: Maintain oil at 375°F (190°C) to prevent soggy struffoli.

4. Warm, Don’t Boil Honey Syrup: Gently heat honey and sugar mixture just until fluid to preserve flavor.

5. Decorate While Sticky: Add sprinkles while honey is still warm so they adhere.

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, orange zest, and salt.

2. Add eggs and olive oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.

3. Turn dough onto a work surface and knead briefly until smooth.

4. Cover and let rest for 1 hour.

5. Divide dough into portions and roll into thin ropes. Cut into small pieces (just smaller than marble sized).

6. Heat oil to 375°F (190°C). Fry dough in batches until golden, about 1–2 minutes.

7. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

8. Gently warm Honey House Clover Honey and the 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a saucepan until fluid, about 3-5 minutes, stirring often.

9. Add fried dough to honey and toss until evenly coated, about 5 minutes.

10. Transfer to a platter, shape as desired, and decorate before serving.

Storage Tips

• Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days

• Avoid refrigeration, which hardens the honey coating

• Best enjoyed the day of or day after they’re made

Recipe Notes

Struffoli are all about balance: crisp fried dough paired with smooth, aromatic honey. Orange zest adds brightness, while olive oil keeps the dough tender without heaviness. The small size of each piece ensures quick frying and an airy interior.

Honey House Clover Honey is ideal here thanks to its light color, delicate floral notes, and smooth texture. As a 100% pure, raw, American-sourced honey, it coats the struffoli beautifully while letting the citrus and dough flavors shine.

Perfect Pairings

Serve with:

• Espresso or cappuccino

• Vin santo or Moscato

• Fresh citrus slices

• Vanilla gelato

• After-dinner amaro

Variation Ideas

While the classic honey-coated struffoli is divine, feel free to get creative with these alternative options:

Honey House Recommendations

• Finish with a light drizzle of Honey House Hot Honey for subtle warmth

Other Great Options

• Add lemon zest instead of orange

• Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds

• Shape into individual mini nests

• Add chopped pistachios for crunch

• Finish with edible gold stars for holidays

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 40 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

• Course: Dessert

• Cuisine: Italian

• Servings: 8–10

• Difficulty: Medium