Description
Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, these Italian lemon ricotta fritters combine creamy ricotta with bright lemon zest and fresh mint. Lightly dusted with powdered sugar, they make a refreshing yet comforting dessert.
Ingredients
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
2 large eggs
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
Vegetable oil for frying
Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese and eggs until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped mint, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the ricotta mixture, stirring gently just until combined to keep the batter light.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
- Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, carefully drop small portions of batter into the hot oil.
- Fry the fritters in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side, turning gently until golden brown.
- Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Dust the warm fritters with powdered sugar and serve immediately.
Notes
Add a little orange zest along with the lemon for a deeper citrus flavor.
Mix in mini chocolate chips for a richer and sweeter variation.
Drizzle with a light lemon glaze instead of powdered sugar for extra citrus sweetness.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.
Use a thermometer to keep frying oil at about 350°F (175°C) for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Deep Fry
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
