Ricotta Fritters

Instructions

1. Gather all your ingredients and measuring spoons before you begin. Make sure you have a small, deep pot for frying and a thermometer to track the oil temperature.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk or fork to blend until smooth.
3. Add 1/4 cup of granulated sugar to the ricotta mixture and stir until well incorporated.
4. In another bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the fritters dense.
6. In a small, deep pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat to 350°F. Ensure the oil is deep enough for fritters to float while frying.
7. Using a spoon or small scoop, carefully drop tablespoon-sized portions of the batter into the hot oil. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding.
8. Cook each fritter for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain the oil temperature.
9. Remove fritters with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
10. Once all the fritters are cooked, let them cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
11. For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the powdered sugar or serving with a side of honey or jam.