Crispy Golden Italian Limoncello Ricotta Fritters with a Hint of Fresh Mint Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy, golden, and airy on the outside, with a soft, pillowy interior.

• The bright, tangy lemon flavor from limoncello and zest is refreshing and vibrant.

• Ricotta adds a creamy texture, keeping them light yet indulgent.

• Easy to make with minimal ingredients.

• Perfect for brunch, a light dessert, or as a party snack.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole-milk, drained if very wet)

• ¼ cup limoncello

• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (a little extra for a thicker batter)

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

1. Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ricotta, limoncello, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and salt until smooth. Stir in the finely chopped mint. In a separate bowl, mix the flour and baking powder, then gently fold it into the wet ingredients until combined. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape on a spoon.

2. Rest the batter: Allow the batter to rest for about 10 minutes. This step helps make the fritters fluffier.

3. Heat the oil: Pour about 2 inches of oil into a deep skillet or pot. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), using a thermometer to ensure the correct temperature.

4. Fry the fritters: Use a small scoop or two spoons to drop 1 to 1 ½ tablespoon portions of batter into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping once until deep golden brown. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to maintain oil temperature.

5. Finish and serve: Transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain excess oil. Dust with powdered sugar while still warm and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage/Reheating

These fritters are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day.

• To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or in an air fryer for 2-3 minutes.

• Avoid microwaving as it will make them lose their crispy texture.

FAQs

Can I make these without limoncello?

Yes, you can substitute the limoncello with fresh lemon juice and a teaspoon of lemon zest.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

While frying gives the best texture, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes in a mini muffin tin for a healthier alternative.

What oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best as they have high smoke points and won't overpower the fritters’ flavor.

Can I freeze the batter?

It’s best to fry them fresh, but you can freeze the cooked fritters for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven before serving.

Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?

Ricotta provides the perfect texture, but mascarpone could work as a creamy alternative.

How do I know if the oil is the right temperature?

Use a thermometer to check that the oil is between 350°F and 365°F. Alternatively, drop a small bit of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the top immediately, the oil is ready.

Can I make these fritters in advance?

These fritters are best served immediately, but you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before frying.

What can I serve with these fritters?

Pair them with a cup of espresso, chilled limoncello, or a scoop of vanilla gelato. For extra sweetness, drizzle with honey or lemon glaze.

Can I add other flavorings to the fritters?

Feel free to experiment with adding a bit of orange zest or a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist.

How do I keep the fritters from absorbing too much oil?

Fry them in batches, ensuring the oil temperature stays steady. This will help the fritters cook quickly and prevent them from becoming greasy.

Conclusion

Crispy Golden Italian Limoncello Ricotta Fritters are a must-try treat that combines light, airy texture with a burst of citrus and mint. Perfect for any occasion, these easy-to-make fritters are sure to be a hit. Whether you're serving them as a dessert, snack, or party treat, they deliver a delightful balance of flavor and crunch.

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