How to Make Sopapillas
Sopapillas are a delightful, light, and fluffy fried pastry that’s popular in Latin American cuisine. These golden, puffy treats are perfect for dessert or as a sweet snack, especially when drizzled with honey. Follow this easy recipe to make homemade sopapillas that are sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (480g)
- ¼ cup vegetable shortening (51g)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon honey (plus extra for serving)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups warm water (105-110°F, 360mL)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, shortening, baking powder, honey, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the warm water until a smooth dough forms.
- Cover the dough and let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.
Step 2: Shape the Sopapillas
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle, about ¼-inch thick.
- Cut the dough into 3-inch squares.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, pour vegetable oil to a depth of 1½ inches.
- Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Line a baking sheet with paper towels to drain the fried sopapillas.
Step 4: Fry the Sopapillas
- Working in batches, carefully add the dough squares to the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even cooking.
- Fry the sopapillas for 1 to 2 minutes, flipping as needed, until they are golden brown and puffed.
- If a sopapilla doesn’t puff immediately, gently press it under the oil with a strainer or spoon to encourage puffing.
- Once fried, transfer the sopapillas to the prepared baking sheet to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the sopapillas warm, drizzled with honey for a sweet and satisfying treat.
Tips for Perfect Sopapillas
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the oil at 375°F is crucial for achieving perfectly puffed sopapillas. If the oil is too hot, they’ll burn; if it’s too cool, they won’t puff properly.
- Dough Consistency: The dough should be smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky. Adjust with a little more flour or water if needed.
- Serving Ideas: Besides honey, sopapillas can be dusted with powdered sugar, served with chocolate sauce, or filled with whipped cream or fruit preserves.
Enjoy making and savoring these light, fluffy, and golden Sopapillas! They’re a perfect way to end a meal or enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. 🌟🍯