VERY IMPORTANT: don’t use a metal bowl to mix in as I did in the video it will produce crispy Zeppoles instead of soft doughy ones.
•  one and 1/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1 package rapid rise yeas
• 1 cup warm water (110-115 degrees)
• 1/2 tsp of salt
• powdered sugar
• vegetable oil or canola oil for frying

Directions

  • Add the flour, water, salt, and yeast into a glass, plastic, or ceramic bowl.
  • Next, you will mix until you have a runny batter.
  • After that, you need to cover the bowl with plastic wrap.
  • Set it aside in a warm area to rise (appx 1 to 1 1/2 hours).
  • When your batter has risen, gently drop tablespoons of batter into hot oil 375 degrees and flip when golden brown.
  • Remove from the oil and set on paper towels to absorb the excess oil.
  • Cover in powdered sugar and enjoy!

Tips:

There are several delicious variations of zeppoles that you can try to satisfy your sweet cravings! Here are some popular options:

  1. Ricotta Zeppoles: Made with ricotta cheese, these have a creamy texture and a rich flavor, often enjoyed at Italian festivals.
  2. Custard-Filled Zeppoles: These delightful treats are filled with creamy custard, adding a luscious interior to the classic fried dough.
  3. Fruit-Filled Zeppoles: Filled with fruit preserves or fresh fruit, these zeppoles offer a burst of fruity flavor that complements the sweetness of the dough.
  4. Chocolate Zeppoles: Incorporating cocoa powder or chocolate chips into the batter, these indulgent treats are perfect for chocolate lovers.
  5. Savory Zeppoles: For a twist, savory versions can be made with herbs, cheese, or even vegetables, providing a delightful contrast to the traditional sweet varieties.

With these variations, you can enjoy zeppoles in many different ways, each bringing its own unique taste and experience!