Carnival Fritters

This is a little one-bite cookie that, like many fried cookies in Italy, is typically prepared during the carnival time in February.

Ingredients:

• Two 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 6 tbsp (3/4 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp mixed orange and lemon zest
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup Marsala
• Peanut or olive oil for frying, as needed

Directions:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, mix the flour, sugar, butter, baking powder, and citrus zest. Blend in the eggs and Marsala. Mix until smooth, about 2 minutes.
2. Remove the dough from the bowl and shape into small balls about 1/2 ounce each and about 1/2 inch in diameter.
3. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or deep pot to 350 degrees F. Cook the castagnole, in batches, until they have a dark color, about 3 minutes.
4. Drain on paper towels. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.