A Traditional Italian Carnival with a Sweet Twist
Golden Joy Bites, which are soft and pillowy on the inside, wonderfully crunchy on the outside, and delicately coated in sugar, will add a splash of sunshine to your table. These festive fritters are a happy homage to Carnevale celebrations, and they were inspired by the popular Castagnole in Italy. Each golden ball is a tiny taste of tradition and joy, delicately caressed with citrus zest and a touch of liqueur. Ideal for get-togethers, comfortable weekends, or any time your sweet tooth yearns for something enjoyable, nostalgic, and incredibly fulfilling.
Golden Joy Bites
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Servings
6
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Calories
501
Author:
Angie M.
A Traditional Italian Carnival with a Sweet Twist
Golden Joy Bites, which are soft and pillowy on the inside, wonderfully crunchy on the outside, and delicately coated in sugar, will add a splash of sunshine to your table. These festive fritters are a happy homage to Carnevale celebrations, and they were inspired by the popular Castagnole in Italy. Each golden ball is a tiny taste of tradition and joy, delicately caressed with citrus zest and a touch of liqueur. Ideal for get-togethers, comfortable weekends, or any time your sweet tooth yearns for something enjoyable, nostalgic, and incredibly fulfilling.
Ingredients
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2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
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2 teaspoons baking powder
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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Pinch of salt
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Zest of 1 lemon (or orange)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
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1 tablespoon grappa, rum, or limoncello (optional but traditional)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vegetable oil, for frying
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Powdered sugar or granulated sugar, for coating
Directions
Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and citrus zest.
- Add the butter, eggs, milk, vanilla, and liqueur (if using). Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Rest the Dough
Cover and let the dough rest for 15–20 minutes at room temperature.
Shape the Castagnole
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into small balls about the size of a walnut (1-inch diameter).
Heat the Oil
In a deep pot or frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 340–350°F (170–175°C).
(Use a thermometer if possible for consistent frying.)
Fry the Fritters
- Carefully drop a few balls at a time into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, turning with a slotted spoon, until puffed and golden brown.
Drain and Coat
Remove and drain on paper towels. While still warm, roll in granulated sugar or dust with powdered sugar.