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Real Sopapillas

Golden, puffy sopapillas are a classic Southwestern treat, fried until light and airy, then dusted with cinnamon sugar and drizzled with honey.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons shortening or lard
  • 3/4 cup warm water
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Cinnamon sugar, for dusting
  • Honey, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Cut in the shortening or lard with a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Gradually stir in the warm water until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth.
  4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.
  5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into 3-inch squares or triangles.
  6. Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry the dough pieces, a few at a time, until golden brown and puffed, about 1–2 minutes per side.
  7. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  8. While still warm, dust with cinnamon sugar and drizzle with honey. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying—test with a small piece of dough. If the sopapillas don’t puff, the dough may be too thick; roll it thinner next time. These are best enjoyed fresh and warm.

  • Author: Sophie Lane
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Method: Dessert
  • Cuisine: Southwestern

Nutrition

  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 5
  • Sodium: 200
  • Fat: 8
  • Saturated Fat: 2
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 25
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 3
  • Cholesterol: 0