Go Back
Homemade Zeppole Recipe photo

Zeppole Recipe

These sweet, fluffy Italian Zeppole are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Crispy on the outside, soft and airy inside—delicious fried pastries you'll love!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Easy, Fried, Pastry, Sweet
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Water
  • 1/2 cup Whole Milk
  • 8 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
  • 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 4 Large Eggs room temperature
  • Oil for Frying such as peanut oil or vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup Confectioners Sugar to dust

Instructions

Zeppole Recipe

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the water, whole milk, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat until the butter is fully melted.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly add the all-purpose flour. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
  • Allow the dough to cool for a few minutes. Once it’s warm (not hot), add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should be smooth, glossy, and somewhat thick.
  • In a large pot or deep fryer, heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want to have enough oil to submerge the Zeppole completely.
  • Scoop the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe small rounds of dough into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, turning them halfway through.
  • Using a slotted spoon, remove the Zeppole from the oil and place them on a cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain. Once they’ve cooled slightly, dust with confectioners' sugar.
  • Enjoy your freshly made Zeppole warm, or allow them to cool completely before storing. These delightful treats are best enjoyed on the day they are made!

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Deep Fryer
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Slotted Spoon
  • Piping Bag (or Ziplock Bag)
  • Cooling Rack

Notes

  • You can substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Butter can be replaced with coconut oil or margarine for a different flavor or dietary needs.
  • Store Zeppole in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
  • To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven until crispy and heated through.
  • Try filling Zeppole with sweetened ricotta, pastry cream, or chocolate ganache for extra indulgence.