Description
This easy Sopapillas recipe features light, fluffy fried dough squares perfect for a sweet dessert. Crispy on the outside and pillowy on the inside, these traditional Mexican treats are dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with honey for a delightful finish. Ideal for an impressive yet simple homemade dessert, these sopapillas come together with basic pantry ingredients and quick frying.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons shortening or butter
- 3/4 cup warm water
For Frying and Serving
- Vegetable oil for frying (2 to 3 inches deep)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Honey for drizzling
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cut in Fat: Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut in the shortening or butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Water and Form Dough: Gradually pour in the warm water, stirring continuously until a soft dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 3 to 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let Dough Rest: Cover the dough with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and allow it to rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
- Roll and Cut: Roll out the rested dough to about 1/8-inch thickness and cut into 3-inch squares or triangles using a knife or pizza cutter.
- Heat Oil: In a deep pot, heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry Sopapillas: Fry dough pieces in batches, a few at a time, turning once, until golden brown and puffed on both sides, about 1 minute per side.
- Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the sopapillas and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the sopapillas warm, dusted generously with powdered sugar and drizzled with honey for a sweet finish.
Notes
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to help the sopapillas puff correctly and avoid greasy texture.
- For a savory variation, skip the powdered sugar and honey and serve with salsa or chili.
- Sopapillas are best enjoyed fresh and warm for optimal texture and flavor.
