How To Make Pignolata (Struffoli) - An Italian Christmas Favorite

One of our family's favorite treats at Christmastime is eating pignolata (peen'-yo-la-ta) also known as struffoli (stru'-fo-lee).  Others serve it on New Year's Eve.  These are tiny pieces of light-textured fried dough drenched in honey, strained, then decorated with sprinkles and sliced almonds.  Over the years, we've had the pleasure and privilege of enjoying this wonderful dessert made by our dear cousin, Clara.  Last year she generously shared her recipe with us. , so we gave it a try. While my husband, Greg, was made them, I recorded his time-saving technique.

Of course, there are many recipes available online for this traditional Italian favorite. Check out this one by Pina Bresciani. No matter which pignolata (struffoli) recipe you try, consider following our technique.