RECIPE FOR ZEPPOLE RECIPES

Steps:

• Cut open the vanilla bean lengthwise. Using the back of a knife, scrape along the inside of the vanilla bean to collect the seeds. Scrape vanilla bean seeds into a small bowl. Add the 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon and stir to combine. Set aside.
• In a medium saucepan combine the butter, salt, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and water over medium heat. Bring to a boil. Take pan off the heat and stir in the flour. Return pan to the heat and stir continuously until mixture forms a ball, about 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer the flour mixture to a medium bowl. Using an electric hand mixer on low speed, add eggs, 1 at a time, incorporating each egg completely before adding the next. Beat until smooth. If not frying immediately, cover with plastic wrap and reserve in the refrigerator.
• Meanwhile, pour enough oil into a large frying pan to reach a depth of 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until a deep-fry thermometer registers 375 degrees F.
• Using a small ice-cream scooper or 2 small spoons, carefully drop about a tablespoon of the dough into the hot olive oil, frying in batches. Turn the zeppole once or twice, cooking until golden and puffed up, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Toss with cinnamon-sugar. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.

Steps:

• Puree the cranberry sauce with the nutmeg and lemon zest in a food processor. Reserve.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed potatoes, milk, 1/2 cup sugar, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon and eggs until smooth. Add the flour, baking powder and salt and stir with a rubber spatula until just combined. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
• Heat 2 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan until it reaches 350 degrees F. Place the remaining 1/2 cup sugar in a shallow bowl.
• With a 1-tablespoon scoop, carefully drop the batter into the hot oil; work in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Fry until deep golden brown and cooked through, about 2 minutes per side, turning with a slotted spoon. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain for a few seconds, then roll in the sugar.
• Serve with the cranberry dipping sauce.