Olive Garden Italian Donuts Recipe – So Easy & Delicious!

If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you might be familiar with their irresistible Italian Donuts, also known as Zeppoli. These warm, fluffy dough balls are a decadent treat that finishes off any meal with a sweet touch.

Dusted in powdered sugar and often served with a side of rich chocolate dipping sauce, Olive Garden’s Italian Donuts have become a fan favorite for their perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

What makes these donuts so special is not just their flavor, but also their deep connection to Italian cuisine. They are a modern take on the classic Zeppole, a traditional Italian dessert that’s been enjoyed for centuries, especially during festive seasons like Carnevale.

If you’ve been craving a taste of these Italian treats at home, you’re in luck! This recipe will guide you step-by-step on how to recreate these mouthwatering donuts in your very own kitchen.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply indulge in a sweet treat, making Olive Garden Italian Donuts is easier than you think.

What Are Olive Garden Italian Donuts?

Olive Garden Italian Donuts, often referred to as Zeppoli, are golden-brown, pillowy dough balls that are fried to perfection and generously dusted with powdered sugar. They are typically served warm, making them a comforting dessert to enjoy at the end of a hearty Italian meal. Their fluffy texture on the inside combined with the light, crispy exterior makes each bite a delightful experience.

These donuts aren’t like your traditional ring-shaped doughnuts. Instead, they are bite-sized, round balls of dough, made with ricotta cheese for a rich and moist texture.

Often served with a side of chocolate or raspberry dipping sauce, these donuts offer a sweet and tangy contrast that complements the dough’s mild flavor.

What truly sets Olive Garden Italian Donuts apart is their authenticity. Inspired by traditional Italian Zeppole—a dessert hailing from Southern Italy—they embody a classic Italian touch but with a modern twist that makes them perfect for any occasion.

Though they are typically served as a dessert, these donuts can also be enjoyed as a sweet snack or a festive treat for holidays and gatherings.

Whether you’ve experienced them at Olive Garden or are about to try them for the first time, these Italian donuts are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients required to make Olive Garden Italian Donuts. These simple ingredients will come together to create a dough that’s light, fluffy, and perfect for frying.

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This will be the base for your dough.
• 1/4 cup sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough itself.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the dough puff up when frying, giving the donuts their airy texture.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: The star ingredient that keeps the dough soft and moist.
• 2 large eggs: Provides structure and richness to the dough.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely depth of flavor to complement the sweetness.
• 1/4 cup milk: For moisture, ensuring the dough isn’t too stiff.

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil or canola oil: This is for frying the donuts to a golden, crispy finish. Ensure you have enough to submerge the dough balls in the hot oil.

For Dusting:

• Powdered sugar: The finishing touch! This gives the donuts their signature sweet dusting.

Optional for Dipping:

• Chocolate sauce or raspberry sauce: While optional, these dipping sauces add an extra layer of flavor and fun to the dessert. Chocolate sauce is a classic pairing, but raspberry sauce can offer a refreshing, tangy twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you’ve gathered all the ingredients, you’re ready to start making these delicious Olive Garden Italian Donuts.

Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of fluffy, crispy donuts ready to enjoy in no time.

1. Preparing the Donut Dough

Start by combining the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Sift together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This step is important to prevent clumps from forming in your dough.

Next, in a separate bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Now, slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough begins to come together. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but not overly wet. If it feels too sticky, you can add a small amount of flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as this will affect the texture of the donuts.

2. Heat the Oil for Frying

While you’re preparing the dough, it’s time to get the oil ready for frying. In a deep saucepan or Dutch oven, pour enough vegetable or canola oil to submerge the donuts (about 2-3 inches deep). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C).

To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready. Be careful not to let the oil get too hot, as this could cause the donuts to burn on the outside while staying raw inside.

3. Shaping and Frying the Donuts

Once the oil is heated, it’s time to shape the dough into small balls. You can use a spoon or your hands to scoop out small portions of dough, about the size of a tablespoon. Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will ensure that the donuts cook evenly.

Fry the donuts for 2-3 minutes, turning them occasionally with a slotted spoon to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. They should turn a golden-brown color and float to the top when they’re done.

Once cooked, use the slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

4. Dipping and Dusting

While the donuts are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar. The sugar will stick perfectly to the warm dough, creating that iconic sweet coating.

For an added treat, you can serve the donuts with a side of chocolate sauce or raspberry sauce for dipping. Whether you choose classic chocolate or opt for a fruity twist, the sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence to each bite.

And that’s it! Your homemade Olive Garden Italian Donuts are now ready to enjoy. They’re best served fresh, but if you have any leftovers, they can be reheated and enjoyed later.

Tips for Perfect Italian Donuts Every Time

Achieving the perfect Olive Garden Italian Donuts requires attention to detail and a few helpful tricks to ensure they come out just right. Keep these tips in mind, and your donuts will be golden, fluffy, and delicious every time.

Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature

One of the most important factors in making perfect fried donuts is maintaining the correct oil temperature. If the oil is too hot, the donuts will brown too quickly on the outside but remain raw on the inside. On the other hand, if the oil is too cool, they’ll absorb excess oil and become greasy.

Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, aiming for around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises quickly, the oil is ready.

Don’t Overmix the Dough

When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can cause the donuts to be tough and dense, rather than light and fluffy. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but still able to hold its shape.

Fry in Batches

Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying. Frying too many donuts at once can cause the oil temperature to drop, which results in soggy donuts. Fry in small batches, ensuring that each donut has plenty of space to float freely in the oil.

Drain the Donuts Properly

After frying, place the donuts on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This will keep them from becoming too greasy and help maintain their crisp exterior.

Dust with Powdered Sugar Immediately

For the best presentation and flavor, dust the donuts with powdered sugar while they’re still warm. This allows the sugar to stick more effectively, creating that signature light, sweet coating.

Variations of Olive Garden Italian Donuts

While the classic Olive Garden Italian Donuts are undeniably delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize and make them your own.

Here are a few fun variations you can try to put a personal twist on this traditional dessert.

Chocolate Zeppoli

If you’re a chocolate lover, try adding some cocoa powder to the dough. This gives the donuts a rich, chocolatey flavor that pairs perfectly with the powdered sugar dusting. You can even drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent treat.

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

For a spiced variation, roll your donuts in cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar after frying. This adds a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall or winter gatherings. To make the cinnamon sugar, mix about 1/4 cup of sugar with 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon and toss the donuts in the mixture while they’re still warm.

Mini Zeppoli Bites

If you’re looking for a fun, bite-sized version, try making mini Italian donuts. Simply scoop out smaller portions of dough and fry them as you would regular-sized donuts. These mini bites are perfect for sharing and make a great addition to a party platter or dessert table.

Lemon or Orange Zest Donuts

Add a citrusy twist to your donuts by incorporating lemon or orange zest into the dough. The fresh, zesty flavor will brighten up the sweetness of the donuts, making them feel even more refreshing. You can even glaze the donuts with a light lemon or orange glaze for an extra burst of flavor.

Cream-Filled Zeppoli

Take your Italian donuts to the next level by filling them with a delicious cream filling, such as vanilla custard or whipped mascarpone cheese. After frying, cut a small slit in the center of each donut and pipe in the filling. This variation adds a rich, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy donut shell.

Raspberry Sauce Dip

For those who prefer a fruitier option, try serving your Italian donuts with raspberry sauce instead of chocolate. The tartness of the raspberries balances the sweetness of the donuts, creating a delightful flavor contrast. You can make your own raspberry sauce by simmering fresh raspberries with sugar until it thickens, or use a store-bought version.

Conclusion

Olive Garden Italian Donuts, or Zeppoli, are a sweet, irresistible treat that captures the heart of Italian dessert tradition. With their soft, fluffy interiors and crispy, golden exteriors, these donuts offer the perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Whether you’re recreating them at home for a family gathering or serving them as a special dessert after an Italian meal, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.

With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a few tips for perfecting the process, making your own Italian donuts is easier than you might think.

Add your own spin with creative variations, and you’ll have a dessert that’s tailored to your tastes and sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, get frying, and enjoy a taste of Italy in your own kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, while ricotta is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like mascarpone or cream cheese. However, keep in mind that using a different cheese may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the donuts.

2. Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?

While the traditional method for making Italian donuts is frying, you can bake them if you prefer a healthier option. Simply shape the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Keep in mind that the texture might be denser compared to the light and crispy fried version.

3. How long can I keep Olive Garden Italian Donuts fresh?

These donuts are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want to enjoy them later, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also freeze the donuts for up to 1 month, but be sure to thaw and reheat them properly.

4. What is the best dipping sauce for Italian donuts?

The classic choice is chocolate sauce, which pairs wonderfully with the sweet, airy texture of the donuts. However, you can also serve them with raspberry sauce for a fruity contrast, or even vanilla cream for a rich and smooth dipping experience. Feel free to get creative with your sauces!

5. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After mixing, cover the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to fry, simply scoop the dough into balls and fry as usual. Just be sure to bring the dough to room temperature before frying to ensure it fries evenly.