Description
This classic Sopapillas recipe features light, fluffy fried pastries perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. Made with a simple dough of flour, baking powder, and shortening, these sopapillas puff up beautifully when fried and are deliciously served warm with a dusting of cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar and drizzled with honey for a perfect touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons shortening or unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup warm water
For Frying and Serving
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 inches deep)
- Cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar for dusting
- Honey for serving
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Incorporate Fat: Cut in the shortening or softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, which helps create a tender dough.
- Add Water and Form Dough: Gradually add the warm water, stirring until a soft dough forms that can be kneaded.
- Knead Dough: On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for 2–3 minutes until smooth and elastic, then cover and let it rest for 20 minutes to relax the gluten.
- Roll and Cut: Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness and cut into 3–4 inch squares or triangles for frying.
- Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat approximately 2 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F, ensuring the oil is hot enough for perfect puffing.
- Fry Sopapillas: Fry a few pieces at a time, turning once, until they are golden brown and puffed, about 1–2 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried sopapillas and drain on paper towels. Serve warm, dusted with cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar, and drizzle with honey for added sweetness.
Notes
- Ensure oil temperature is steady at 375°F for best puffing and crispy texture.
- Sopapillas are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to regain crispness.
- Use vegetable oil with a high smoke point for frying to avoid burning.
