Struffoli

Directions

1. 1
   Break the eggs and whisk.
2. 2
   Put eggs through a strainer to make sure they are mixed properly.
3. 3
   Add sugar to eggs and mix immediately to prevent sugar from burning eggs.
4. 4
   Bring butter to room temperature.
5. 5
   Flake butter into the flour.
6. 6
   Split vanilla beans and scrape out the seeds and add them to the sugar/egg mixture.
7. 7
   Put mixture into a mixer and mix (using dough hook) and slowly add the flour.
8. 8
   Let dough rest in a cool dry place.
9. 9
   Roll out the dough into small quantities.
10. 10
    Cut dough into 1/2-inch strips and cut 1/2-inch pieces from the strips.
11. 11
    Place the 1/2-inch squares onto a baking pan.
12. 12
    Put vegetable oil into a large pot and bring to 350 degrees.
13. 13
    Fry small quantities of the dough squares in the oil and when golden brown, place onto a baking pan lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
14. 14
    When all dough is fried, let cool to room temperature.
15. 15
    In a saucepan, heat the honey (not to a boil) and add small quantities of the fried dough to the pan.
16. 16
    Stir lightly with a large slotted spoon.
17. 17
    Remove from saucepan and place onto a serving plate and sprinkle with candy sprinkles.