Easy Italian Lemon Ricotta Doughnuts Recipes

ZEPPOLE, ITALIAN RICOTTA DOUGHNUTS

Steps:

• In a Medium sized bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt and the 3 tablespoons of sugar and then set aside.
• In a stand mixer or a hand held mixer, beat together the eggs and the ricotta cheese just until fairly smooth.
• Stir the flour mixture into the ricotta mixture until thoroughly combined.
• In a large heavy pot or a dutch oven, pour in enough oil to reach 2 inches high and heat to 375*. A candy thermometer comes in handy in order to get the right temperature and ensuring the oil does not drop under 350*, while you are frying between batches.
• If the oil is not hot enough the doughnuts will be too soggy and if it is too hot then the outside will darken quickly leaving the inside under cooked.
• Use a 1 1/2 inch scoop or 2 small spoons to drop bits of dough into the hot oil.
• Fry the zeppole for about 2 to 3 minutes, turning often until they are puffed, fluffy and golden brown.
• Larger sized doughnuts will need extra time. Use a slotted spoon to remove the zeppole from the pan and drain them on paper towels. Repeat until you have used up all the batter.
• Dust with icing or powdered sugar and serve while still warm.

RICOTTA DOUGHNUTS

Steps:

• In a deep saucepan, heat enough oil to deep fry (about half-way up the pot) to 350 to 365 degrees F.
• Mix the ingredients together in a bowl with a wooden spoon in order until the batter is smooth.
• Using 2 teaspoons, scoop a spoonful of batter then push it off into the hot oil with the other spoon. They will sink then float to the top of the oil. Turn them occasionally to fry evenly on all sides.
• Drain on paper towels and then dip in powdered sugar or roll at the table in cinnamon sugar. Serve immediately.

RICOTTA BALLS (ITALIAN DOUGHNUTS)

Steps:

• Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
• Drop by teaspoonfuls into hot oil and deep fry.
• Balls will turn themselves over when one side is done.
• Fry until golden brown and cooked through adjust heat as needed if they brown too quickly without cooking through.
• Drain on paper towels to cool and absorb oil.
• When cool, sprinkle with powdered sugar.