Italian Honey Balls (Struffoli)

Name: Italian Honey Balls (Struffoli)
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 5 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp kosher or fine sea salt; ½ cup (4 ounces or 1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 cup white granulated sugar; 5 large eggs, room temperature; ⅓ cup dry (white) vermouth, plus more if needed; oil for frying ((i.e., peanut, vegetable, canola)); 2 cups (24 ounces) mild honey; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ tsp ground cinnamon or 1 whole cinnamon stick; 1-2 tsp freshly grated lemon zest (I like to use a splash of pure lemon oil (for baking); *see notes)

Instructions

Prep:25minCook:25min

Italian Honey Balls, also known as Struffoli, are tiny bites of golden, pillowy dough drenched in a sweet honey glaze. Traditionally served during Easter and Christmas, these festive treats are a beloved staple in Italian homes and bakeries alike.

Updated at: Fri, 20 Mar 2026 13:29:29 GMT