15+ Irresistible Olive Garden Zeppole Recipes to Your Dessert Game

Olive Garden’s zeppoles have long been a beloved treat for those who crave something sweet after a savory Italian meal.

These warm, fluffy, fried dough balls are dusted with powdered sugar, making them the perfect comfort food.

While the traditional recipe is undeniably delicious, there are so many ways to take this classic dessert to the next level.

From fruit-filled variations to indulgent chocolate and caramel twists, there are endless possibilities for creating your own zeppoles at home.

In this blog, we’ll explore over 15 unique Olive Garden zeppole recipes, each with a different flavor profile and fun new ingredients.

Whether you’re a fan of seasonal fruit, crave the rich taste of chocolate, or love the addition of spices and nuts, there’s a zeppole recipe for everyone.

Get ready to discover new ways to enjoy this delightful Italian treat, whether for a casual dessert or a show-stopping dish for special occasions!

15+ Irresistible Olive Garden Zeppole Recipes to Your Dessert Game

There’s no doubt that Olive Garden’s zeppoles are a crowd-pleaser, but now you have the chance to elevate your dessert game with these 15+ unique recipes.

From refreshing blueberry lemon zeppoles to indulgent salted caramel and pumpkin spice versions, you can mix and match flavors, fillings, and toppings to create a dessert that’s truly your own.

These zeppoles are versatile enough for any occasion, from family dinners to festive gatherings, and are sure to impress anyone with a sweet tooth.

So why wait for your next visit to Olive Garden? Bring the deliciousness of zeppoles to your kitchen with these amazing recipes!

Classic Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

Olive Garden’s famous Zeppole is a delicious Italian doughnut, soft on the inside with a light golden crisp on the outside. These little bites of heaven are dusted with powdered sugar and served warm, making them an irresistible treat. This recipe replicates the signature flavor and texture of the beloved dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup water
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together water, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
5. Using a spoon or your hands, carefully drop tablespoon-sized dollops of dough into the hot oil.
6. Fry the zeppole for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and puffed.
7. Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. Dust with powdered sugar while still warm, and serve.

This classic Zeppole recipe brings the beloved Olive Garden dessert to your kitchen in no time. The golden, crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior paired with a sweet powdered sugar dusting deliver a nostalgic flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for parties, special occasions, or simply treating yourself, these homemade zeppoles will be a hit with everyone who tries them.

Cinnamon-Sugar Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

This variation of the classic Zeppole recipe is coated in a warm cinnamon-sugar mixture that adds an extra layer of sweetness and spice. These light, fried dough balls are a crowd-pleasing treat that will fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
• 1 tsp cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
2. In another bowl, mix together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until a smooth dough forms.
4. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
5. Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
6. While frying, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
7. Once the zeppole is done, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, then immediately roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!

These cinnamon-sugar Zeppoles offer a warm twist on the classic dessert. The combination of crispy dough and the sweet, aromatic cinnamon-sugar coating makes them a deliciously comforting treat. The addition of cinnamon provides a cozy, festive touch, making these zeppoles perfect for the fall or holiday season. Serve them alongside coffee or hot chocolate for a perfect dessert experience.

Chocolate Drizzled Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

This indulgent twist on the classic Olive Garden Zeppole adds a rich, chocolate drizzle to the warm, fluffy doughnut balls. The chocolate complements the sweetness of the powdered sugar and the soft texture of the zeppoles, making them an even more irresistible treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
• ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp heavy cream

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a thick dough forms.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the hot oil, frying for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove the zeppole from the oil and place on paper towels to drain.
7. While the zeppole is cooling slightly, melt the chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
8. Once the zeppoles are slightly cooled, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top.
9. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.

For chocolate lovers, this version of Zeppole offers the perfect combination of rich chocolate and the light, airy dough. The warm chocolate drizzle adds a luxurious touch, turning these fried dough balls into a decadent dessert. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a chocolatey twist on the traditional and is sure to be a hit at any gathering. With every bite, you’ll experience the perfect balance of crispy, sweet, and rich flavors.

Lemon Glazed Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

The bright, zesty flavor of lemon glaze perfectly complements the soft, pillowy interior of the zeppole. This refreshing twist on the classic Olive Garden zeppole is ideal for those who love a citrusy touch in their desserts. The tangy lemon glaze adds a burst of flavor that balances the sweetness of the fried dough.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp milk (or as needed to reach desired consistency)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
4. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large pot.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove the zeppole from the oil and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
7. While the zeppole is cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and milk until smooth and glossy.
8. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm zeppole.
9. Dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately.

The lemon glaze elevates these zeppoles with a tangy, fresh twist, making them a perfect dessert for spring and summer. The combination of a warm, crispy dough and the bright, citrusy sweetness of the glaze is refreshing and satisfying. These lemon-glazed zeppoles make an excellent choice for any occasion where you want a lighter, fruit-forward dessert to complement the richness of fried dough.

Nutella-Stuffed Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

These Nutella-stuffed zeppoles offer a rich and indulgent filling that turns the classic dessert into a decadent treat. The creamy hazelnut chocolate spread pairs beautifully with the fluffy fried dough, creating a dessert that’s truly irresistible for Nutella lovers. This version adds a gooey, chocolatey surprise inside every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Nutella, for stuffing
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, mix together the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
4. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large pot or deep fryer.
5. Roll out small balls of dough and use your thumb to create a small indentation in the center.
6. Fill the indentation with a teaspoon of Nutella and pinch the dough around the Nutella to seal it inside.
7. Carefully drop the stuffed dough balls into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp.
8. Remove the zeppoles from the oil and drain on paper towels.
9. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.

Nutella-stuffed zeppoles are a dream come true for anyone who loves the iconic hazelnut chocolate spread. The warm Nutella filling melts perfectly within the golden, crispy dough, offering an indulgent surprise with each bite. These stuffed zeppoles are perfect for a special treat or for any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something unique and utterly delicious.

Apple Cinnamon Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

This variation of the classic zeppole incorporates the sweet, spiced flavor of cinnamon and apple, making it the perfect autumn dessert. The soft dough is infused with apple chunks and cinnamon, and the zeppoles are fried to perfection, offering a warm, comforting treat with a burst of fruity flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• 1 large apple, peeled and finely diced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
• 1 tsp cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, then fold in the diced apple until evenly incorporated.
4. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large pot or deep fryer.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
6. While frying, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together in a shallow bowl.
7. Once the zeppoles are done, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
8. Roll the warm zeppoles in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
9. Serve warm for a cozy, spiced treat.

These apple cinnamon zeppoles are the perfect dessert for fall. The soft, apple-filled dough paired with the warm, cinnamon-sugar coating creates a comforting and aromatic treat. Whether you’re serving them at a fall gathering, Thanksgiving dinner, or just as a sweet snack, these zeppoles are sure to delight your guests with their seasonal flavor and irresistible texture. The balance of apples and cinnamon in every bite makes this recipe an autumn favorite!

Salted Caramel Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

This salted caramel version of the classic Olive Garden Zeppole takes the traditional doughnut-like treat and pairs it with a rich and indulgent salted caramel drizzle. The sweet and salty combination elevates the flavor of the warm, crispy zeppoles, making them a luxurious and irresistible dessert.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp sea salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
4. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large pot or deep fryer.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the hot oil, frying for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While the zeppoles are frying, make the salted caramel sauce. In a small saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat until it melts and turns golden.
7. Stir in the butter, then slowly add the heavy cream while stirring. Once combined, add the sea salt and continue stirring until smooth.
8. Once the zeppoles are fried and golden brown, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
9. Dust the zeppoles with powdered sugar and drizzle with the salted caramel sauce.
10. Serve warm for a delightful contrast of sweet, salty, and crispy.

The salted caramel drizzle adds a depth of flavor to these already irresistible zeppoles. The rich sweetness of the caramel, combined with a hint of sea salt, creates a complex and luxurious dessert. This version is perfect for anyone who loves the balance of sweet and salty, and it makes for a fantastic special-occasion dessert. Serve these salted caramel zeppoles as a show-stopping treat at your next dinner party or family gathering!

Raspberry Jam-Filled Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

These raspberry jam-filled zeppoles are a delightful twist on the classic recipe. The sweet-tart raspberry jam provides a burst of fruity flavor with each bite, complementing the soft, pillowy dough. Dusted with powdered sugar, these jam-filled zeppoles are a deliciously fruity alternative to the traditional fried dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Raspberry jam (or preserves), for filling
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a thick dough forms.
4. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large pot.
5. Roll out small portions of dough into balls and use your thumb to create an indentation in the center.
6. Fill each indentation with a small spoonful of raspberry jam and pinch the dough around it to seal the filling inside.
7. Carefully drop the stuffed dough balls into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
8. Remove the zeppoles from the oil and drain on paper towels.
9. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.

These raspberry jam-filled zeppoles bring a fruity and slightly tart element to the sweet, crispy dough. The rich raspberry jam filling offers a refreshing contrast to the light dough, creating a perfectly balanced dessert. These are perfect for anyone who loves fruit-filled treats or wants to add a touch of summer to their dessert menu. Serve them at brunches, parties, or as a treat after dinner to impress your guests with this delicious twist on the classic zeppole.

Pumpkin Spice Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

Perfect for the fall season, these pumpkin spice zeppoles are an autumn-inspired twist on the classic Italian dessert. The dough is infused with warm spices and pumpkin puree, creating a comforting treat with every bite. Topped with a dusting of cinnamon sugar, these zeppoles are ideal for chilly evenings and fall gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup canned pumpkin puree
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
• 1 tsp cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the egg, pumpkin puree, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients to form a dough.
4. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large pot.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While frying, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
7. Once the zeppoles are fried, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
8. Roll the warm zeppoles in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
9. Serve warm for a cozy, fall-inspired treat.

These pumpkin spice zeppoles offer the perfect combination of rich pumpkin flavor and warming spices. The cinnamon-sugar coating enhances the comfort of this fall-inspired dessert, making it ideal for autumn get-togethers, Thanksgiving, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy by the fire. With their soft, fluffy texture and comforting flavors, these pumpkin spice zeppoles are sure to become a seasonal favorite!

Strawberry Shortcake Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

This strawberry shortcake version of zeppoles is a fresh, fruity twist on the classic dessert. With juicy, sweet strawberries and whipped cream piled on top of the warm, fluffy fried dough, this version brings a fun, summery flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s the perfect dessert for a casual gathering or a light, refreshing treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients to form a dough.
4. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large pot or deep fryer.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil, frying for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
6. While the zeppoles fry, make the whipped cream. In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
7. Once the zeppoles are golden, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
8. Top each zeppole with a few slices of fresh strawberries and a generous dollop of whipped cream.
9. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

This strawberry shortcake-inspired zeppole brings a refreshing, summery twist to the traditional fried dough treat. The sweet strawberries and light whipped cream provide a delicious contrast to the crispy, warm zeppoles. Perfect for brunch or as a fun, festive dessert at summer gatherings, this variation of zeppole offers a perfect balance of rich and refreshing flavors that will please any crowd.

Mocha Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

The mocha zeppole brings together the rich flavors of coffee and chocolate, creating a perfect dessert for coffee lovers. The dough is subtly flavored with coffee, and the fried zeppoles are finished off with a chocolate drizzle and a dusting of cocoa powder. This version of zeppole is a perfect pick-me-up for any occasion, combining the depth of coffee with the indulgence of chocolate.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tbsp instant coffee granules
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Chocolate Drizzle:

• ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tsp instant coffee (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, coffee granules, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
4. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large pot.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
6. While the zeppoles are frying, make the chocolate drizzle. Melt the chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Stir in instant coffee for an extra coffee flavor boost.
7. Once the zeppoles are fried, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
8. Drizzle the chocolate mixture over the zeppoles and dust lightly with cocoa powder before serving.

The mocha zeppoles are a dream for coffee and chocolate enthusiasts. The dough, infused with coffee, provides a lovely balance of flavors, while the chocolate drizzle adds a touch of decadence. These zeppoles are perfect for coffee lovers, making them a great after-dinner treat or a unique addition to a brunch spread. With every bite, you’ll experience the comforting flavors of coffee and chocolate in a light, crispy dough.

Coconut Cream Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

The coconut cream zeppole takes a tropical turn with the addition of coconut flavor in both the dough and the creamy filling. The zeppoles are fried to perfection and stuffed with a luscious coconut cream filling that adds richness and sweetness. Topped with toasted coconut and powdered sugar, these zeppoles will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Coconut Cream Filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• ¼ cup coconut milk
• 1 tsp coconut extract
• Toasted coconut flakes, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, coconut milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
4. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large pot.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
6. While the zeppoles fry, prepare the coconut cream filling. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Fold in the coconut milk and coconut extract until smooth.
7. Once the zeppoles are fried, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
8. Once cooled slightly, carefully pipe or spoon the coconut cream filling into the center of each zeppole.
9. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

These coconut cream-filled zeppoles are a tropical indulgence that’s perfect for anyone who loves coconut. The rich, creamy coconut filling paired with the crispy, fluffy dough creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The toasted coconut topping adds a final touch of crunch and flavor, making these zeppoles a unique and luxurious treat for any special occasion or just as a tropical escape on a regular day.

Blueberry Lemon Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

For a refreshing and fruity twist on traditional zeppoles, the blueberry lemon version brings together the tangy flavor of fresh blueberries with the zest of lemon. These zeppoles are filled with blueberries that burst in your mouth with each bite, and they are topped with a zesty lemon glaze that enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit. It’s a perfect summer dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the deep-fried goodness of zeppoles and the bright, refreshing flavor of berries and citrus.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp milk (or as needed for desired consistency)

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, being careful not to crush them.
4. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large pot or deep fryer.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil, frying for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
6. While the zeppoles fry, make the lemon glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and milk until smooth and glossy.
7. Once the zeppoles are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
8. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm zeppoles and serve.

These blueberry lemon zeppoles are a refreshing take on the traditional dessert. The burst of blueberries paired with the tangy lemon glaze creates a light and fruity flavor that is perfect for warm weather or when you want something fresh and flavorful. The combination of sweet, tart, and citrusy elements makes this zeppole variation a crowd-pleaser at any brunch, picnic, or dinner party.

Cherry Almond Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

If you’re looking for a sophisticated take on zeppoles, the cherry almond version is a great choice. The sweet, juicy cherries complement the nutty, aromatic flavor of almond extract, creating a decadent treat with every bite. The addition of fresh cherries and a sprinkle of toasted almonds makes this version of zeppole a standout dessert that combines fruity and nutty elements in a harmonious way.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Cherry Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp almond extract
• ¼ cup water

For Garnish:

• ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the egg, milk, melted butter, and almond extract until smooth.
3. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients to form a dough. Gently fold in the chopped cherries, being careful not to mash them.
4. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large pot.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. While the zeppoles fry, prepare the cherry sauce by combining cherries, sugar, lemon juice, almond extract, and water in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the cherries break down and the sauce thickens.
7. Once the zeppoles are fried, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
8. Drizzle the cherry sauce over the zeppoles and top with toasted almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar.

The cherry almond zeppoles are an elegant and indulgent dessert. The tartness of the cherries balances the rich almond flavor, creating a delightful flavor profile. Topped with a warm cherry sauce and toasted almonds, these zeppoles are perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions where you want to serve something a little more refined yet still comforting. The balance of textures—from the crispy dough to the juicy fruit and crunchy almonds—makes every bite a treat.

S’mores Olive Garden Zeppole Recipe

For a fun, nostalgic twist on the classic zeppole, the s’mores version brings the campfire favorite into the kitchen. These zeppoles are stuffed with chocolate and marshmallow, then fried until golden and crispy. Afterward, they are drizzled with melted chocolate and topped with graham cracker crumbs, creating a decadent, gooey treat that tastes just like a s’more in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup mini marshmallows
• ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For Topping:

• ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients to form a dough. Gently fold in mini marshmallows, being careful not to crush them.
4. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large pot or deep fryer.
5. Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil, frying for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
6. While the zeppoles fry, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler.
7. Once the zeppoles are fried, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
8. Roll the zeppoles in graham cracker crumbs and drizzle with melted chocolate.
9. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

These s’mores zeppoles are a perfect dessert for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham crackers. The gooey marshmallow and melted chocolate filling offer a delightful surprise in the center of each zeppole. With the crunchy graham cracker coating and the dusting of powdered sugar, these zeppoles are a fun and indulgent treat that captures the essence of s’mores in a deliciously fried form. Perfect for a party or casual get-together, these zeppoles will surely bring back fond memories of summer campfires.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!