St Joseph Zeppole

Every year, as spring approaches, I find myself reminiscing about the sweet, creamy indulgence of St Joseph Zeppole. This delightful Italian pastry is not just a treat; it’s a cherished tradition that brings families together. Growing up, I remember watching my grandmother whip up her famous zeppole for the feast of St. Joseph, filling the kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of baked dough and rich pastry cream. It was a time when family gathered around the table, laughter filled the air, and every bite of these heavenly pastries reminded us of our heritage. The crunchy exterior, soft interior, and sweet filling make St Joseph Zeppole a favorite for all ages. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet moment, these pastries are sure to bring joy to your day.

Ingredients Required for St Joseph Zeppole

When preparing St Joseph Zeppole, the ingredients play a pivotal role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Each component contributes to the overall harmony of the dish. The buttery dough pairs beautifully with the richness of the pastry cream, creating a dessert that is both decadent and comforting.

• 80g Butter: This is the base of your dough, providing richness and flavor. Make sure to cut it into small chunks for even melting.
• 125g Water: Essential for hydrating the dough, water helps create the steam needed for that perfect rise.
• ½ teaspoon Sugar (optional): A touch of sweetness enhances the dough’s flavor but is optional if you prefer less sweetness.
• A pinch Salt: Salt is crucial for balancing flavors and enhances the overall taste of your zeppole.
• ½ teaspoon Lemon Zest (finely minced, optional): Adds a refreshing citrus note, brightening the flavors of the pastry.
• 125g Flour: The backbone of your dough, use all-purpose flour for the best results.
• 3 Medium Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and contribute to the zeppole’s structure and richness.
• 200g Italian Pastry Cream: The star filling that adds creaminess and sweetness to each zeppole.
• 15 Black Cherries (amarene) in syrup: These cherries add a delightful burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
• 1 tablespoon Confectioner’s Sugar: Ideal for dusting the filled zeppole, adding a touch of sweetness and elegance.

St Joseph Zeppole Instructions

Making St Joseph Zeppole is an art that combines technique with tradition. Each step is essential for crafting these exquisite pastries. Let’s dive into the process of creating these mouthwatering treats.

1. Start by placing the butter, water, salt, sugar (if using), and lemon zest (if using) in a medium saucepan. Whisk gently over low heat until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Keep an eye on the pot; you want everything to melt together smoothly, creating a fragrant base.
2. Once the water begins to boil, it’s time to add the flour all at once. This is the moment of transformation! Using a wooden spoon, vigorously mix the flour into the liquid, ensuring there are no lumps. You’ll notice the dough start to come together into a smooth ball that pulls away from the sides of the pan.
3. Continue to cook the dough for about 1 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly. You want to see a slight sheen appear as the dough dries out a bit. This brief cooking step is crucial for developing the right texture.
4. Transfer the dough to a marble surface or a bowl to cool. Spread it out gently with a spatula, allowing it to cool for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can leave it in the bowl, just make sure to flatten it against the sides.
5. In a separate container, whisk the eggs. Slowly incorporate the eggs into the cooled dough, whisking continuously. This step is essential; you want to achieve a creamy, dense, and shiny dough that is pipeable.
6. Preheat your oven to 400°F/200°C, placing your baking tray on the middle shelf. The right temperature is vital for achieving that perfect puff!
7. Next, transfer the dough into a pastry bag fitted with a large star-shaped tip. Pipe the dough onto a tray lined with parchment paper, forming 3-inch circles. You can make one circle or two overlapping ones for a more dramatic effect.
8. Now, bake the zeppole for 10 minutes. After this initial baking time, lower the oven temperature to 360°F/180°C and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Watch them closely, as you want them to puff up beautifully and turn a lovely golden brown.
9. After the baking time, open the oven door slightly, allowing the zeppole to bake for another 5 minutes. This helps them dry out a bit, ensuring a nice crisp texture.
10. Once baked, transfer the zeppole to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely. When cool, carefully cut them horizontally. Fill each one generously with Italian pastry cream, then close them up and pipe more cream on top. Garnish with the black cherries in syrup and a light dusting of confectioner’s sugar for that finishing touch.

Change It Up

While the classic St Joseph Zeppole is a favorite, here are some fun tips to change things up. Experimenting with flavors can elevate your pastry game!

• Fillings: Try using different flavored creams like chocolate or vanilla custard to switch up the traditional filling.
• Garnishes: Instead of just cherries, consider adding fresh berries or drizzling with chocolate sauce for an extra touch.
• Fried Version: For a different texture, try frying the dough instead of baking. It will give a crispy exterior.
• Seasonal Flavors: Infuse your pastry cream with seasonal spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs without losing flavor.
• Decorative Toppings: Get creative with toppings. Use crushed nuts or edible flowers for a stunning presentation.
• Flavor Variations: Add extracts like almond or coconut to the batter for unique flavor profiles.

What to Pair With St Joseph Zeppole

• Coffee or Espresso: Pairing St Joseph Zeppole with a warm cup of coffee or espresso enhances the flavors beautifully.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad serves as a refreshing counterbalance to the sweetness of the pastries.
• Ice Cream: Serve warm zeppole with a scoop of vanilla or pistachio ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an extra level of creaminess and texture.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling melted chocolate over the top can elevate the dessert to new heights.
• Perfect for Celebrations: These zeppole are excellent for special occasions like Easter or family gatherings, making them a festive treat.

FAQ

Conclusion

St Joseph Zeppole is a delightful pastry that embodies tradition, flavor, and joy. With its rich filling and light texture, it’s no wonder these pastries are beloved across generations. I encourage you to try making them at home—there’s something truly rewarding about creating a dish with such a rich history. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner pastry chef, and enjoy the sweet taste of Italy!

St Joseph Zeppole

The ultimate treat for any occasion, St Joseph Zeppole are soft, airy pastries filled with rich cream and topped with cherries. These pastries are perfect for celebrating traditions and sharing with loved ones. Bring the taste of Italy to your home and indulge your sweet tooth tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 15 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 220

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 80g Butter
• 125g Water
• ½ teaspoon Sugar optional
• a pinch Salt
• ½ teaspoon Lemon Zest finely minced, optional
• 125g Flour
• 3 medium Eggs
• 200g Italian Pastry Cream
• 15 Black Cherries (amarene) in syrup
• 1 tablespoon Confectioner's Sugar

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Large Pot
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Start by placing the butter, water, salt, sugar (if using), and lemon zest (if using) in a medium saucepan. Whisk gently over low heat until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
2. Once the water begins to boil, it's time to add the flour all at once. Using a wooden spoon, vigorously mix the flour into the liquid, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. Continue to cook the dough for about 1 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly. You want to see a slight sheen appear as the dough dries out a bit.
4. Transfer the dough to a marble surface or a bowl to cool. Spread it out gently with a spatula, allowing it to cool for a few minutes.
5. In a separate container, whisk the eggs. Slowly incorporate the eggs into the cooled dough, whisking continuously.
6. Preheat your oven to 400°F/200°C, placing your baking tray on the middle shelf.
7. Next, transfer the dough into a pastry bag fitted with a large star-shaped tip. Pipe the dough onto a tray lined with parchment paper, forming 3-inch circles.
8. Now, bake the zeppole for 10 minutes. After this initial baking time, lower the oven temperature to 360°F/180°C and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
9. Once baked, transfer the zeppole to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely. When cool, carefully cut them horizontally.
10. Fill each zeppole generously with Italian pastry cream, then close them up and pipe more cream on top. Garnish with the black cherries and a light dusting of confectioner's sugar.

Notes

Measure Ingredients Accurately: Using gram measurements is more precise than cups. A kitchen scale is your best friend for baking success.

Butter Temperature: Cut the butter into small cubes and ensure it’s melted before adding water. This step helps create a smooth dough.

Egg Temperature: Avoid adding the eggs when the dough is too hot. If the dough is too warm, it could cook the eggs and ruin the texture.

Piping Tips: Use a large star tip for piping the pastry dough and filling. It creates beautiful shapes and decorations.

Space Between Zeppole: Make sure to leave enough space when piping as they will double in size while baking.

Oven Door Caution: Do not open the oven door while they’re baking. This can cause them to collapse.

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Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.