Crostoli Recipe

These irresistible, crispy fried Crostoli (also known as Angel Wings or Struffoli) are the perfect holiday treat! Delightfully knot-shaped and golden-brown, these cookies are surprisingly easy to make. The dough comes together quickly in a food processor, and even kids can help tie the knots. Get ready for a taste of tradition with this simple yet elegant recipe.

Prep Time 45 mins
Cook Time 44 mins
Calories 56.9 kcal
Protein 2g
Rating Be the first
Crostoli 42

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Forktionary editorial kitchen team

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Crostoli

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • Dark Rum
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • All Purpose Flour
  • Cooking Oil
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

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How to Make Crostoli

  1. In a food processor, combine 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon salt.
  2. Process until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add ½ cup whole milk, 1 large egg, 1 large egg yolk, 2 tablespoons rum, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon orange zest.
  4. Process until well combined.
  5. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  6. Add 4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup at a time, pulsing until the dough comes together.
  7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and slightly elastic, adding more flour as needed (about 1-2 tablespoons).
  8. Form the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight.
  9. If chilling overnight, let the dough stand at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling.
  10. Divide the dough in half.
  11. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half of the dough into a 16-inch square.
  12. Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the dough into 10 strips, about 1 ½ inches wide.
  13. Cut each strip in half crosswise to make 20 strips.
  14. Tie each strip into a knot in the center.
  15. Place the knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  16. Repeat with the remaining dough.
  17. Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  18. Carefully fry the Crostoli in batches of 8-10, for 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
  19. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  20. Let cool completely.
  21. Sprinkle generously with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

1 g

Sugar

6g

Fat

6g

Carbs

2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Crostoli?

Crostoli takes about 89 minutes from start to finish — roughly 45 minutes to prepare and 44 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Crostoli?

Crostoli has approximately 56.9 calories per serving, with about 2 g protein, 2 g carbohydrates and 3 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Crostoli?

The key ingredients for Crostoli are Butter, Granulated Sugar, Salt, Milk, Egg, Egg Yolk. See the full list with measurements above.

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