Hello, Lykkers! Get ready to enjoy one of Italy’s most beloved treats, perfect for festive occasions. Today, we’ll dive into the simple yet delightful world of Castagnole.

These small, sweet fried pastries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them irresistible. Ideal for celebrations, they’re easy to prepare and sure to bring smiles to your table.

Whether you stick to the classic flavor or explore creative variations, these treats are a great way to add joy to any gathering. Let’s get started!

What Are Castagnole?

Castagnole are traditional Italian pastries typically made during Carnival. They are part of the larger family of festive fritters that come in various regional forms. While the name might vary depending on where they are made, Castagnole are most popular in Romagna.

These little dough balls are deep-fried to a golden crisp and dusted with sugar, making them a sweet, irresistible treat. They can be flavored with anise, vanilla, or citrus zest for a deliciously aromatic touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make about 30 Castagnole, you will need:

- 40 g soft butter

- 200 g all-purpose flour

- 2 eggs

- 50 g sugar

- Zest of ½ lemon

- 1 tablespoon orange juice

- A pinch of salt

- 8 g baking powder

- 1 vanilla bean

- Granulated sugar for coating

- Peanut oil for frying

How to Make Castagnole

Step 1: Prepare the Butter Mixture

Start by softening the butter and mixing it with the seeds of the vanilla bean and the lemon zest. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift the flour and add sugar. Then, sift in the baking powder and add a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Add the eggs to the dry ingredients and then incorporate the butter mixture. Mix first with a spoon and then knead by hand until the dough becomes smooth and firm. Add the orange juice and mix again.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rest

Cover the dough with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This will help to firm up the dough and make it easier to shape.

Step 5: Shape the Dough into Balls

Once rested, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a log and then cut it into small pieces, about 12 grams each. Roll each piece into a small ball. If you prepare all the balls at once, they might dry out, so you can either cover them or fry them immediately.

Step 6: Fry the Castagnole

Heat peanut oil in a pan until it reaches 170°C (338°F). Fry the Castagnole in small batches, turning them occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon or spider to carefully remove them from the oil.

Step 7: Coat with Sugar

Once fried, place the Castagnole on paper towels to drain excess oil. While still warm, roll them in granulated sugar until well-coated.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer the sugar-coated Castagnole to a plate and serve immediately. These sweet treats are perfect for sharing with friends and family, and they’re sure to be a hit at any celebration.

Tips for Perfect Castagnole

- To make the Castagnole even more festive, try mixing powdered sugar with a bit of cinnamon and using that for the coating instead of granulated sugar.

- Although it might be tempting, baking Castagnole won’t give you the same crispy result as frying them, so it’s best to stick to the frying method.

Storage and Freshness

Castagnole are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and consume them within a day. The dough itself can be refrigerated for up to 1 day, but we recommend frying them as soon as possible for the best texture.

Conclusion

Castagnole are a delightful, easy-to-make Carnival treat that’s perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of sweetness to their celebrations. With their soft center and crisp exterior, these pastries are sure to bring joy to any occasion.

By following these simple steps and using a few creative variations, anyone can master the art of making Castagnole. Enjoy this classic Italian treat, and don’t forget to share them with loved ones for a truly festive experience. Happy cooking!