Sopapillas

Make authentic homemade sopapillas with this easy recipe. These light and fluffy fried pastries are golden, crisp on the outside, and soft on the inside. Perfect with honey, powdered sugar, or cinnamon sugar, sopapillas are a traditional Mexican dessert you can prepare in under 30 minutes. Ideal for family gatherings, parties, or a simple sweet treat at home.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening
• ⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon warm water
• Oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar and honey, for serving (or cinnamon sugar)

Instructions

1. Make the dough:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the vegetable shortening and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or two forks until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough in the bowl for 2–3 minutes until smooth.

2. Rest the dough:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest for 20 minutes at room temperature.

3. Heat the oil:
Meanwhile, pour 1–2 inches of oil into a medium saucepan and heat over medium heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).

4. Shape the dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a square about ⅛ inch thick. Cut into 9 equal squares by slicing three strips vertically and three horizontally.

5. Fry the sopapillas:
Carefully place one square at a time into the hot oil using tongs. The dough will sink before puffing up to the surface. Gently spoon hot oil over the top to encourage it to puff. Fry for about 30 seconds per side, until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain.

6. Serve:
Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with honey, or coat in cinnamon sugar while still warm.

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

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Tips

• Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 375°F/190°C); if it’s too cool, the sopapillas won’t puff properly.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry only a few at a time for best results.
• Roll the dough evenly to ensure all sopapillas cook consistently.

Variations and Substitutions

• Shortening substitute: Use unsalted butter or coconut oil instead.
• Sweet topping options: Try a dusting of cinnamon sugar, chocolate drizzle, or maple syrup.
• Savory version: Skip the sugar and honey, and serve with chili or stuffed with seasoned meat and cheese.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a few hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate, then bring to room temperature before rolling and frying.

Why didn’t my sopapillas puff up?
This usually happens if the oil isn’t hot enough or if the dough wasn’t rolled evenly.

Can I bake sopapillas instead of frying?
Traditional sopapillas are fried, but you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 8–10 minutes. They won’t puff quite the same but will still be tasty.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce for dessert.
• Pair with a hot cup of Mexican hot chocolate.
• For a savory twist, use them as pockets and stuff with beans, cheese, or shredded meat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy, golden, and light with a pillowy center.
• Simple ingredients you already have in your pantry.
• Versatile—delicious both sweet and savory.
• A fun, authentic treat that’s perfect for sharing.