Pignolata is a traditional Italian dessert eating during Christmastime. It is a Sicilian pastry that originated in Messina, but it is also very common in Calabria. It has a sweet and delicious flavor and a soft consistency. Learn how to make it below!
Total time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- Vegetable Oil
- 7 cups flour
- 3 cups of sugar
- 8 eggs
- 1 jar of honey
- optional (sprinkles)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions – For the Dough
- Begin by cracking all the eggs and mixing them on medium
- Slowly begin incorporating the sugar and then the melted butter
- Add in the vanilla extract, and then slowly add in the flour and baking powder. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Roll the dough and then let it sit for 5 minutes. Begin rolling the dough into strips and cutting off small sections. Roll the small sections into little balls.
- Set the fryer filled with vegetable oil to 350 degrees F. Begin frying the dough balls ( You know they are done when they become golden and rise to the top)
For the Honey Coating
- Set stove to medium heat and pour the honey into a large frying pan.
- When the honey begins to simmer add in the pignolata. Stir with a wooden spoon.
- When they are fully coated in honey, put them in a large bowl. Top them with sprinkles and enjoy!
Buon Natale! ♡
I’ve been looking for this recipe ever since my great grandmother passed. Thank you. Merry Christmas