Active Time

　　45 min

　　Total Time

　　45 min

　　

Ingredients

Makes about 3 dozen fritters

　　4 to 6 cups vegetable oil

　　3/4 cup all-purpose flour

　　2 teaspoons baking powder

　　1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

　　1 cup whole-milk ricotta

　　2 large eggs, lightly beaten

　　2 tablespoons granulated sugar

　　1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

　　Confectioners' sugar for dusting

　　

Special Equipment

a deep-fat thermometer

　　

Step 1

Heat 1 1/2 inches oil in a large wide heavy saucepan until it registers 370°F.

　　

Step 2

Meanwhile, whisk together flour, baking powder, zest, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a bowl. Whisk together ricotta, eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla in another bowl, then whisk in flour mixture.

　　

Step 3

Working in batches, gently drop in level tablespoons of batter and fry, turning occasionally, until deep golden, about 3 minutes per batch. Transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain.

　　

Step 4

Dust generously with confectioners sugar.