Recipe: Struffoli

Except for the chocolate, this sounds like Struffoli, a really common Italian cookie made at Christmas. Usually, you see the balls piled up in a pyramid or cone shape and then you pick them off and eat them. Traditionally, you see the balls tossed with multi-colored candy sprinkles. Hope this is what you are looking for. Happy Holidays.
Namaste

STRUFFOLI

3 eggs
1 tablespoon butter, softened
1/2 cup plus one teaspoon sugar, divided use
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 cups all-purpose flour
vegetable oil (for frying)
1 cup honey
colored sprinkles

Whisk together eggs, butter, and 1 teaspoon sugar until foamy. Add baking powder. Add flour. Work the mixture into a soft dough with your hands. Divide dough into 4 pieces.

On a floured surface, roll each piece into a rope about the width of your index finger and 12 inches long. Cut the ropes into 1 inch pieces. Toss the pieces with enough flour to dust them lightly and shake off excess flour.

Heat oil to 375 degrees in a deep fryer. Fry the struffoli a few handfuls at a time until they puff up and are golden brown. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a paper towel to drain.

Combine the honey and the remaining 1/2 cup sugar in a large saucepan over low heat. Stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Keep warm over low heat. Add the fried balls, a few at a time, and turn them with a wooden spoon to coat on all sides.

Transfer the balls to a large platter and mound them into a pyramid, shaping with wet hands. Sprinkle with the colored sprinkles and let stand for 1 to 2 hours. Then just break off some pieces with your hands to eat.