Loukoumades (Greek Honey Balls)

Makes 40 servings

Also known as fried Greek donuts, these Honey Balls are an irresistible treat thanks to their fluffy texture and crunchy coating of chopped pecans and honey. They are also dairy-free, but if you don’t need to worry about lactose, serve with ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an instant crowd pleaser.

INGREDIENTS

For the dough:

2 cups lukewarm water, divided
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
3 cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon

For frying:

4 cups vegetable oil
1 cup water

For the topping:

¼ cup powdered sugar
¼ cup pecans, roughly chopped
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
¼ cup honey

INSTRUCTIONS

To make the dough:

1. Whisk ¼ cup of the water with the yeast in a large bowl and allow to sit for 5 minutes, until foamy.
2. Add the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and remaining water to the bowl, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let rest in a warm area for 45–55 minutes, until it triples in size.

To fry:

1. Heat the oil in a 6-quart soup pot set over medium-high heat, until it reaches 350°F.
2. Wet hands to keep the dough from sticking, take approximately two tablespoons (a small handful) of the dough, and roll into balls. Carefully drop into the hot oil. You will have to work in batches, so the balls do not stick together.
3. Cook balls for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
4. Remove from the hot oil and drain on a wire rack set over a rimmed cookie sheet, and start the next batch.

To make the topping:

1. Whisk together the powdered sugar, pecans, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl.
2. Once cooled, coat balls with honey and sprinkle with the mixture (optional). Serve warm or at room temperature. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

NUTRITION • PER ONE SERVING

Calories 247 (11%)
Total Fat 22.37 g (46%)
Saturated Fat 3.481 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 12.76 g
Monounsaturated Fat 5.235 g
Trans Fat 0.116 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
Sodium 59 mg (4%)
Total Carbohydrate: 10.51 g (4%)
Dietary Fiber: 0.5 g (2%)
Total Sugars: 3.03 g
Protein: 1.09 g (2%)
Vitamin A 1 mcg
Vitamin C 0 mcg
Vitamin D 0 mcg
Potassium 16 mg
Calcium 7 mg (1%)
Iron 0.5 mg (3%)

This AMAZING Recipe can be found in my new Desserts on the Mediterranean cookbook here