Homemade Sopapilla Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sopapilla recipe is quick, simple, and versatile. You can enjoy them as a sweet dessert topped with honey and powdered sugar or transform them into a savory snack with cheese, ground beef, and more. The dough doesn't require rising time, meaning you can enjoy them in less than 30 minutes! Perfect for a family-friendly treat any time of the day.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons shortening

• ¾ cup warm water

• Oil for frying (such as vegetable oil)

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

• Honey (for drizzling)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

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

2. Use a pastry blender or fork to cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Gradually stir in the warm water until a dough forms.

4. Knead the dough for 2-3 minutes until smooth.

5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 15 minutes.

6. While the dough rests, heat the oil in a deep pan to 350°F-360°F.

7. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares or rectangles.

8. Fry the pieces in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

9. Remove the fried sopapillas with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain.

10. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and drizzle with honey before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Rest time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 12 sopapillas

Variations

• Savory Sopapillas: Top with taco fillings like ground beef, cheese, pico de gallo, or sour cream.

• Cinnamon Sugar: After frying, toss sopapillas in cinnamon sugar for an extra sweet touch.

• Air Fryer: For a healthier twist, air fry the sopapillas at 350°F for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for 1-2 days.

• Refrigeration: Keeps for 2-4 days in an airtight container.

• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in an oven at 350°F until crispy.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it rest for 15 minutes before frying.

How do I make sopapillas in the air fryer?

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C), spray the basket with oil, and cook the sopapillas for 8 minutes, flipping them halfway.

Can I use butter instead of shortening?

Yes, you can use butter as a substitute for shortening for a richer flavor.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

Use a thermometer to check that the oil is between 350°F and 360°F, or drop a small piece of dough into the oil. It should bubble and float to the top when the temperature is right.

Can I freeze sopapillas?

Yes, sopapillas freeze well for up to 3 months. Just store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Can I make sopapillas savory?

Absolutely! Sopapillas can be topped with taco fillings, cheese, and sour cream for a savory twist.

How do I reheat sopapillas?

Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until they are crispy again.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, though it may alter the texture slightly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make more sopapillas for a larger crowd.

What is the best oil for frying sopapillas?

Vegetable oil or canola oil are ideal because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor.

Conclusion

This homemade sopapilla recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity and deliciousness. Whether you prefer them sweet with honey or savory with taco toppings, they are a treat everyone will enjoy. Make them fresh and hot for the best experience, or store them for later enjoyment. Whichever way you serve them, these crispy, golden pockets will be a hit at your table!

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