Italian Holiday Cookies

Directions

1. In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat oil to 350°. In a bowl, combine sugar, lemon zest, vanilla and salt. Add eggs and 2 cups flour; mix well. Turn onto a floured surface and knead in remaining flour (dough will be soft).
2. With a floured knife or scissors, cut into 20 pieces. With hands, roll each piece into pencil shapes. Cut "pencils" into 1/2-in. pieces. Fry pieces, a few at a time, until golden brown, 2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels. Place in a large bowl. Heat honey to boiling; pour over cookies and mix well. With a slotted spoon, spoon onto a serving platter and slowly mound into a tree shape, if desired. Decorate with candy sprinkles. Cool completely.