Ricotta and Orange Fritters
MAKE THIS WITH: Le Creuset 6.5-qt. Deep Round Oven
Ingredients:
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon orange zest, divided
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup whole milk ricotta
3 large eggs, room temperature
1/4 cup sugar
Vegetable oil, for frying
2 cups powdered sugar
3 tablespoons orange juice
2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, 2 teaspoons orange zest and baking powder. In another bowl, whisk together the ricotta, eggs and sugar. Add the ricotta mixture to the flour mixture and whisk until just combined.
Pour 5 inches of vegetable oil into Le Creuset Deep Round Oven and heat to 375°F. Working in batches to not overcrowd the Dutch oven, drop the batter by tablespoons into the oil. Fry until golden-brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Drain on a paper-towel-lined plate and allow to cool slightly.
To make the glaze, sift powdered sugar into a medium bowl. Add orange juice, remaining orange zest and vanilla, and stir until smooth. If glaze is too thick, add a teaspoon more of orange juice, adding more until desired consistency. If it is too thin, add more powdered sugar. Dip fritters into the glaze, shaking off any excess. Serve immediately and enjoy.