Description
Italian Crostoli are delicate, crispy ribbons of fried dough dusted with powdered sugar—a festive treat traditionally made during Carnival, perfect with coffee or as a sweet snack.
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: 250g – Provides structure and crunch.
- Eggs: 2 – Bind the dough and add richness.
- Granulated Sugar: 2 tbsp – Adds light sweetness to the dough.
- Butter: 30g (melted) – For tenderness and flavor.
- Lemon Zest: 1 tsp – Brightens the dough with citrus notes.
- Salt: 1 pinch – Balances and enhances flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp – Adds depth and aroma.
- Water: 1–2 tbsp – Helps bring the dough together if needed.
- Vegetable Oil: For frying – Neutral flavor and high smoke point.
- Powdered Sugar: For dusting – The signature snowy topping.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Fill a deep pan with vegetable oil and heat to 350°F (175°C). Line a tray with paper towels for draining.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, lemon zest. Make a well, add eggs, melted butter, vanilla. Mix until a smooth dough forms, adding water if needed. Knead for 5–7 minutes until elastic.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Let the dough rest, covered, for 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Assemble the Dish: Roll dough paper thin using a rolling pin or pasta machine. Cut into strips or diamond shapes. Make a small slit in the center of each piece and pull one end through to form a twist.
- Cook to Perfection: Fry in small batches for 1–2 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
- Finishing Touches: While still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve piled high on a platter with espresso or a sweet dessert wine.
Notes
- Roll very thin: Thinner dough yields crispier crostoli.
- Fry in batches: Prevents oil temperature from dropping.
- Store airtight: Keeps them crisp for several days.
- Use neutral oil: Avoid strong flavors for clean, classic taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 18mg