Sopapillas
Fluffy, hollow pillows of golden-fried dough, a beloved treat from the American Southwest. Perfect for drizzling with honey or dusting with cinnamon sugar, these pastries are wonderfully light and satisfying.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Dough
- b.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to combine.
- c.Add the cold, cubed shortening to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the shortening into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- d.Gradually pour in the warm water while mixing with a fork. Continue mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- e.Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time; if too dry, add a teaspoon of water.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Rest the Dough
- b.Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl.
- c.Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- d.Let the dough rest at room temperature for at least 20 minutes. This step is crucial for relaxing the gluten, which makes the dough easier to roll out and helps the sopapillas puff properly.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Shape the Sopapillas
- b.After resting, divide the dough in half to make it more manageable.
- c.On a lightly floured surface, roll one half of the dough into a thin rectangle, approximately 1/8-inch thick. Even thickness is key for even puffing.
- d.Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the rolled dough into 3-inch squares or triangles. Repeat the process with the remaining half of the dough.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Fry the Sopapillas
- b.In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- c.Carefully place 2-3 pieces of dough into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. They should begin to puff up within 15-20 seconds.
- d.If a piece doesn't puff immediately, gently spoon some of the hot oil over its top to encourage it to inflate.
- e.Fry for about 30-60 seconds per side, or until they are golden brown and crisp.
- f.Work in batches, allowing the oil to return to 375°F between each batch.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Drain and Serve
- b.Using a slotted spoon or spider strainer, remove the golden-brown sopapillas from the oil.
- c.Let them drain on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.
- d.For a classic serving, drizzle warm honey over the hot sopapillas. Alternatively, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a bowl or paper bag and toss the warm sopapillas to coat.
- e.Serve immediately for the best light, crispy texture.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The oil temperature is the most critical factor. Use a deep-fry thermometer. If the oil is too cool, the sopapillas will be dense and greasy; if it's too hot, they'll burn before puffing up.
- 2Don't skip the 20-minute resting period for the dough. It relaxes the gluten, making the dough pliable and helping achieve that signature light, airy texture.
- 3Roll the dough evenly and thinly (about 1/8-inch). If it's too thick, the sopapillas won't inflate properly into hollow pillows.
- 4Gently spooning hot oil over the dough as it fries helps it inflate fully and evenly.
- 5Sopapillas are best enjoyed fresh and hot, right out of the fryer.
- 6For perfectly mixed cinnamon sugar, combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small paper bag, add the warm sopapillas, close the bag, and shake gently.
Adapt it for your goals.
Savory Sopapillas
Omit the sweet toppings. After frying, split the sopapillas open and stuff them with savory fillings like seasoned ground beef, refried beans, cheese, and lettuce to create a main dish.
Whole Wheat VersionWhole Wheat Version
For a nuttier flavor and more fiber, replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You may need to add a little extra water as whole wheat flour is more absorbent.
Spiced DoughSpiced Dough
Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg directly into the dry ingredients when making the dough for a warm, spiced flavor throughout.
Different ToppingsDifferent Toppings
Instead of honey or cinnamon sugar, try serving with chocolate sauce, fruit preserves, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Quick Energy Source
The refined carbohydrates from the all-purpose flour provide a rapid source of energy, which can be useful for a quick boost.
Mood-Lifting Comfort Food
Enjoying a warm, sweet, and satisfying treat like sopapillas can provide a sense of comfort and pleasure, which may help improve mood and reduce stress.
Frequently asked questions
The most common reasons are incorrect oil temperature (too low or too high) or the dough being rolled too thick. Ensure your oil is at a steady 375°F (190°C) and the dough is rolled to an even 1/8-inch thickness.