Armenian Zeppole Bishi Recipe

Indulge in the light and fluffy deliciousness of Armenian Zeppole Bishi, a treasured family recipe passed down from Grandma Hyganoush! These delightful treats, best enjoyed for breakfast, are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of confectioners' sugar, or both! The batter can even be prepared the night before for extra convenience. Fry until golden brown, creating whimsical shapes that will spark your imagination – just like when we were kids, seeing all sorts of people and animals in each one!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 70 mins
Calories 159.3 kcal
Protein 14g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Armenian Zeppole Bishi

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Armenian Zeppole Bishi

  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • ½ cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Vegetable Oil

How to Make Armenian Zeppole Bishi

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast in ½ cup warm water (105-115°F) with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Whisk in 2 large eggs.
  3. Gradually add 3 cups all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon salt, whisking until a batter slightly thicker than pancake batter forms.
  4. Cover the bowl and let the batter rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk (about 1-1.5 hours). Alternatively, cover and refrigerate overnight. If refrigerating, remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before frying.
  5. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Use a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.
  6. Carefully drop rounded tablespoons of batter into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot.
  7. Fry, gently turning occasionally with a slotted spoon, until golden brown and cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
  8. Remove the zeppole with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  9. Serve immediately, dusted generously with confectioners' sugar and/or drizzled with maple syrup.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

13 g

Sugar

4g

Fat

4g

Carbs

8g