Struffoli

Here's one of my favorite Italian desserts - Struffoli.  These small fritters have a mild citrus flavor and are sweetened with a honey glaze.  If you want to serve a unique dessert, try this with some nice espresso.

Blend 2 cups of flour, 3 tsp of baking powder, 2 Tbs sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, 2 large eggs, 4 Tbs soft butter, 1-2 tsp lemon zest, 1-2 tsp orange zest and 4-5 tsp rum into a dough.  I use a food processor, but this could be mixed by hand.  It should be the consistency of pizza dough.  Wrap in plastic and let it rest for about 30 minutes.  Cut off pieces of dough the size of a tomato, roll into a tube and cut into small pieces.  Roll them into balls.

Fry these in a pan with a 1/2 inch of oil or a deep fryer.  They take 2 to 3 minutes to turn golden brown.

Heat 3/4 cup of honey and 2 tsp sugar in the microwave, then pour over the Struffoli to coat.  Pour onto a pretty platter and cover with sprinkles before serving.  Store at room temperature.  They are good for about a week, but are best eaten fresh.