Bunuelos are a delightful fried treat, popular in many Latin American and Spanish cultures. These crispy, golden discs are lightly sweetened, often dusted with sugar or cinnamon sugar, and are the perfect indulgence for holidays or special occasions. Simple yet utterly satisfying, bunuelos pair beautifully with a warm drink like coffee or hot chocolate.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Easy-to-follow recipe, perfect for beginners.
- A versatile treat that can be sweet or savory.
- Made with pantry staples, no need for fancy ingredients.
- Great for celebrations or when youโre craving a nostalgic snack.
- Irresistibly crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Milk
- Butter
- Eggs
- Granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon (optional, for dusting)
- Oil for frying
Directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Heat the milk and butter together until the butter melts. Let it cool slightly.
- Add the milk mixture and eggs to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.
- Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball out into thin discs.
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry each disc until golden and crispy on both sides.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
- While still warm, sprinkle with sugar or cinnamon sugar as desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings:ย Approximately 10-12 bunuelos, depending on size.
- Prep Time:ย 20 minutes
- Cook Time:ย 15 minutes
- Total Time:ย 35 minutes
Variations
- Savory Bunuelos:ย Omit the sugar and cinnamon; instead, season with herbs and cheese for a savory twist.
- Dipping Sauces:ย Pair with dulce de leche, chocolate sauce, or honey for added indulgence.
- Gluten-Free Option:ย Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
- Shaped Bunuelos:ย Roll into fun shapes or use a cookie cutter for unique designs.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage:ย Store leftover bunuelos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheating:ย Warm in the oven at 350ยฐF for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
FAQs
1. What are bunuelos made of?
Bunuelos are made of a simple dough consisting of flour, baking powder, milk, butter, eggs, and a touch of sugar.
2. Can I make bunuelos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and fry them fresh when needed for the best texture.
3. Are bunuelos gluten-free?
Traditional bunuelos are not gluten-free, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute.
4. Can I bake bunuelos instead of frying?
Frying is traditional for achieving the crispy texture, but you can bake them at 375ยฐF until golden for a healthier version.
5. How do I make cinnamon sugar for bunuelos?
Mix 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon.
6. Why are my bunuelos not crispy?
Ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350ยฐF) and roll the dough thin for crispiness.
7. Whatโs the best oil for frying bunuelos?
Neutral oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil work best for frying.
8. Can I freeze bunuelos?
Yes, you can freeze them after frying. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
9. Do I need special equipment to make bunuelos?
No special equipment is needed, just a rolling pin and a frying pan.
10. Can I add flavors to the dough?
Yes, you can incorporate vanilla, citrus zest, or spices into the dough for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Bunuelos are a timeless treat that brings joy with every crispy bite. Whether you make them for a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try the variations, share them with loved ones, and enjoy the irresistible flavors of homemade bunuelos.
Print
Bunuelos Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 buรฑuelos 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Buรฑuelos are crispy, golden, deep-fried dough discs that are lightly sweetened and often sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. Popular in many Latin American countries, they are a festive treat enjoyed during holidays and celebrations. Whether served plain or with a drizzle of syrup, these delicious pastries are sure to please!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup warm water (or as needed)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Cinnamon Sugar:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Add the melted butter and egg, mixing until the dough begins to come together.
- Gradually add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, kneading until a smooth and elastic dough forms.
- Rest the Dough:
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Roll Out the Buรฑuelos:
- Divide the dough into 10-12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten and roll into thin discs, about 6-8 inches in diameter.
- Heat the Oil:
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
- Fry the Buรฑuelos:
- Fry each dough disc one at a time, cooking for 1-2 minutes per side or until golden and crispy. Use tongs to carefully flip them.
- Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar:
- Mix the cinnamon and sugar in a shallow bowl. While the buรฑuelos are still warm, sprinkle or dip them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve:
- Serve warm, plain, or with syrup or honey. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can store leftover buรฑuelos in an airtight container for up to 2 days, though they are best enjoyed fresh.
- For added flavor, serve with piloncillo syrup or chocolate sauce.
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