Sopaipillas

Sopaipillas are golden pillows of fried dough that puff up dramatically in hot oil, turning crisp outside and soft inside. Dust them with cinnamon sugar and drizzle with warm honey for a treat that disappears fast. They are a beloved dessert across Mexico and the American Southwest.

Prep time

25 mins

Cook time

15 mins

Total time

40 mins

Servings

6 servings

Calories

290

Ingredients

• 250 g plain flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening or lard
• 150 ml warm water
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 50 g caster sugar, for dusting
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 120 ml honey, warmed, to serve

Instructions

1. Mix the flour, baking powder, salt and sugar in a large bowl, then rub in the shortening until the mixture looks like fine crumbs.
2. Add the warm water a little at a time and knead for 3 to 4 minutes until a smooth, soft dough forms.
3. Cover the dough and rest it for 20 minutes so it relaxes and rolls out easily.
4. Roll the dough on a floured surface to about 5 mm thick and cut it into 8 cm squares or triangles.
5. Heat 5 cm of oil in a deep pan to 180°C (350°F) and fry 2 to 3 pieces at a time.
6. Press each piece gently with a spoon so it puffs up, then fry for 60 to 90 seconds per side until golden.
7. Drain on paper towels, toss in cinnamon sugar and serve warm with honey for drizzling.

Pro tips

• The oil must be hot enough or the sopaipillas will absorb oil and stay flat.
• Do not overcrowd the pan, as the temperature drops and the puff collapses.
• Roll the dough evenly so every piece puffs at the same rate.
• Leftover dough keeps in the fridge for a day; bring it to room temperature before rolling.

Frequently asked questions