Perfect Crispy Sopapillas

Perfect Crispy Sopapillas: Pillows of Sweet Perfection!

Indulge in the irresistible allure of sopapillas, the golden-fried pastries that promise a heavenly blend of crispy exterior and pillowy interior. These delightful treats, traditionally drizzled with honey, offer a perfect balance of textures and sweetness that will transport your taste buds to cloud nine.

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that’s as rewarding as it is simple. As you fry these puffy squares of dough, your kitchen will be filled with the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked pastries, evoking memories of warm, sunny afternoons and joyful gatherings. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you to create a dessert that’s sure to impress.

Originating from the American Southwest and Latin America, sopapillas have a rich history dating back centuries. These versatile pastries can be enjoyed as a sweet dessert, a savory side dish, or even as a main course when filled with meats and beans. Today, we’ll focus on the classic sweet version, perfect for pairing with a steaming cup of Mexican hot chocolate or a refreshing horchata.

Perfect Crispy Sopapillas Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons vegetable shortening

3/4 cup warm water

Vegetable oil for frying

Honey for drizzling

Cinnamon sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

2. Cut in the vegetable shortening using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Gradually add the warm water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together to form a ball.

4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 2-3 minutes until smooth.

5. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 20 minutes.

6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.

7. Cut the dough into 2-3 inch squares or triangles.

8. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).

9. Carefully drop a few dough pieces into the hot oil, frying for about 30 seconds on each side until golden brown and puffed.

10. Remove the sopapillas with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

11. Serve warm, drizzled with honey and dusted with cinnamon sugar if desired.

Air Fryer Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lightly brush the sopapillas with oil.

3. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, without overcrowding.

4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and puffed.

Gluten-Free Alternative:

To make gluten-free sopapillas, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Add 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already include it. The texture may be slightly different, but the result will still be delicious.

Gluten-Free options are provided as a resource only. Always check your product labeling or contact the manufacturer of ingredients you are using. If there is not a gluten-free or GF on the label of the product packaging, read the ingredients label thoroughly. Check for hidden or questionable ingredients. Some ingredients may contain hidden gluten.

Elevated Cooking Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, infuse your honey with vanilla bean or cinnamon stick before drizzling over the sopapillas.

Notes:

• For a savory twist, omit the honey and cinnamon sugar, and serve with salsa or guacamole.
• Leftover sopapillas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes to restore crispness.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 120 per sopapilla

Fat: 5g

Protein: 2g

Carbohydrates: 17g

Fiber: 1g

Sugar: 1g

Sodium: 200mg

Nutritional info is an estimate and provided as a courtesy. Values may vary according to the ingredients and tools used. Please use your preferred nutritional calculator for more detailed info.

Other Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Equipment: Large bowl, rolling pin, deep fryer or large pot

Estimated Cost per Serving: $0.30

Total Cost (8 servings): $2.40

In Conclusion, Perfect Crispy Sopapillas

In conclusion, sopapillas are a testament to the simple yet profound pleasures of traditional cooking. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can create a dessert that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re serving them at a festive gathering or enjoying them as a special weeknight treat, these crispy, honey-kissed pillows of dough are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Read about Texas South by Southwest Cuisine here.

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