Struffoli

Prepare your workspace: Gather all ingredients and equipment. Line a large plate with paper towels. (5 minutes)

Create the Dough: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, 1/4 cup sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and baking powder. (5 minutes)

Incorporate the Flour: Gradually add the flour, about 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until a soft, pliable dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but not wet. (10-15 minutes)

Shape the Struffoli: Roll small portions of the dough into ropes about 1/2-inch thick. Cut the ropes into small, bite-sized pieces (about 1/2-inch in diameter). Alternatively, roll the dough into small balls. (20-30 minutes)

Heat the Oil: Pour 2 cups of vegetable oil into a large, deep saucepan or pot. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). A small piece of dough dropped into the oil should sizzle gently and turn golden brown in about 2-3 minutes. (10 minutes)

Fry the Struffoli: Working in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. (15-20 minutes)

Drain and Cool: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried struffoli to the prepared plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Allow to cool slightly. (10 minutes)

Prepare the Honey Glaze: In a separate saucepan, combine the honey and 1/2 cup sugar over medium-low heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the glaze is smooth and shimmering, about 5 minutes. Taste and add more sugar if desired. (5 minutes)

Glaze the Struffoli: Transfer the slightly cooled struffoli to a large bowl. Pour the warm honey glaze over the struffoli and toss gently but quickly to coat evenly before the glaze hardens. (5 minutes)

Arrange and Decorate: On a serving plate, arrange the glazed struffoli into a tower shape or Christmas tree shape. Sprinkle generously with rainbow nonpareil sprinkles. (5-10 minutes)

Serve and Enjoy: Allow the struffoli to cool completely and the glaze to set before serving. Best enjoyed fresh! (10 minutes)