If you live in a neighborhood with an Italian grocery store, see if it carries fresh ricotta cheese; it has a creamy flavor and texture not found in commercial cheeses. These fritters are light and delicious, with just a hint of orange.
4 large eggs
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 pound ricotta cheese
2 teaspoons grated orange zest
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 tablespoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups vegetable oil for frying
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
1. Combine eggs, sugar, ricotta, orange zest, and vanilla in the bowl of an electric mixer, and beat at medium speed until smooth. Add baking powder and salt, and mix well. Add flour and mix at low speed until just combined.
2. Heat oil in a deep-sided saucepan or deep-fryer to a temperature of 375°F. Preheat the oven to 150°F, and line a baking sheet with paper towels.
3. Using a rubber spatula, push batter off carefully into hot fat, about 1 tablespoonful at a time. Fry fritters until they are a deep golden brown, turning them in the hot fat to brown both sides. Remove fritters from the pan with a slotted spoon, and drain on paper towel–lined baking sheet. Keep fritters warm in the oven while frying remaining batter. Serve immediately dusted with confectioners’ sugar.
Note: The fritters can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated, tightly covered. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or until hot and crispy.