Description
Sopaipillas are delightful, puffy fried pastries enjoyed in various regions, especially in Mexico and the southwestern United States. They’re typically served warm, drizzled with honey or dusted with cinnamon sugar. Here’s how you can make authentic sopaipillas at home:
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening or lard, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup warm water
- For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for deep-frying)
- Optional Toppings:
- Honey
- Cinnamon sugar (1/2 cup sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the vegetable shortening or lard. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually pour in the warm water, mixing until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a bit more water.
- Rest the Dough:
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.
- Roll and Cut:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 3-inch squares or triangles.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Ensure there’s enough oil to allow the sopaipillas to float freely.
- Fry the Sopaipillas:
- Carefully slide a few pieces of dough into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding.
- Fry until they puff up and turn golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve:
- Serve the sopaipillas warm. Drizzle with honey or sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, if desired.
Notes
- Puffing Up: To ensure your sopaipillas puff up properly, make sure the oil is at the correct temperature and the dough is rolled out evenly.
- Storage: Sopaipillas are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an oven to regain some of their crispness.