Description
Golden, fluffy Mexican pastries with hollow centers, perfect for drizzling with honey or dusting with cinnamon sugar. These quick-fried treats are ideal for breakfast, dessert, or snacking.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening or lard
3/4 cup warm water
1–2 cups frying oil (canola or similar)
Optional: honey, powdered sugar, or cinnamon sugar for finishing
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add warm water and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead dough briefly in the bowl until smooth, then cover and rest for 20–30 minutes.
- Roll dough on a floured surface to 1/8–1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut into triangles, squares, or rounds about 3–4 inches wide.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350–375°F (175–190°C).
- Fry a few pieces at a time, spooning oil over tops. Fry for about 30 seconds per side until puffed and golden.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm with desired toppings like honey or cinnamon sugar.
Notes
- Ensure oil is hot enough (350–375°F) to help pastries puff properly.
- Dough can be prepared ahead and refrigerated—bring to room temp before frying.
- Try savory versions by filling with cheese or beans, or sweeten the dough with anise or cinnamon.
- For Chilean variation, add pumpkin puree and serve with syrup.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sopaipilla
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
