Sopapillas are simple to make with basic pantry staples, yet they deliver an irresistibly fluffy texture and golden crispness. They’re perfect for dipping in honey, topping with cinnamon sugar, or stuffing with your favorite fillings. Quick to fry and even quicker to disappear, these pastries are crowd-pleasers that are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
all-purpose flour baking powder salt sugar (optional for sweetness) shortening or butter warm water vegetable oil (for frying) optional toppings: honey, powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar
Directions
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).
Cut in the shortening or butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough briefly on a floured surface until smooth.
Cover and let the dough rest for 20–30 minutes.
Roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness and cut into squares or triangles.
In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).
Fry the dough pieces in batches, flipping once, until puffed and golden on both sides (about 1–2 minutes per side).
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serve warm, drizzled with honey or sprinkled with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12–16 sopapillas, depending on size. Prep time: 15 minutes Rest time: 30 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Total time: 1 hour
Variations
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Toss hot sopapillas in a cinnamon-sugar mixture right after frying.
Savory Sopapillas: Omit sugar and serve with beans, cheese, or shredded meat inside.
Stuffed Sopapillas: Carefully slice open puffed sopapillas and fill with sweet cream cheese, fruit, or taco-style fillings.
Honey-Lime Drizzle: Mix honey with a splash of lime juice for a tangy topping.
Chocolate Drizzle: Serve with melted chocolate or chocolate sauce for dipping.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based shortening and ensure all ingredients are dairy-free.
Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover sopapillas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or briefly in an air fryer to restore crispiness. Microwaving is not recommended, as it can make them soggy. Sopapilla dough can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 days.
FAQs
What are sopapillas made of?
Sopapillas are made from a simple dough of flour, baking powder, salt, shortening, and water, then deep-fried until puffy and golden.
Why didn’t my sopapillas puff up?
The oil may not have been hot enough, or the dough was rolled too thin or too thick. Ensure the oil is at 375°F and dough is about 1/4 inch thick.
Can I bake sopapillas instead of frying?
Baking is not traditional, but you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes. They won’t be as puffy or crispy, but still tasty.
Are sopapillas sweet or savory?
They can be either! Traditionally sweet with honey or sugar, they can also be used as a base for savory fillings.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate it wrapped tightly for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and frying.
What oil is best for frying sopapillas?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
Can I freeze sopapillas?
Yes, freeze after frying. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture. Avoid freezing raw dough.
What’s the difference between sopapillas and fry bread?
Though similar, fry bread often uses yeast and is usually denser. Sopapillas are lighter, puffier, and typically made with baking powder.
What can I serve with sopapillas?
Serve with honey, cinnamon sugar, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, or alongside chili for a sweet-savory combo.
Are sopapillas gluten-free?
Not traditionally, but you can make them gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Conclusion
Sopapillas are a warm, crispy, and pillowy treat that brings comfort and joy in every bite. Whether you drizzle them with honey, fill them with savory ingredients, or dust them with sugar, they’re a versatile and beloved dish perfect for any occasion. Easy to make with basic ingredients and incredibly satisfying, sopapillas are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Sopapillas are light, airy fried pastries with a golden exterior and soft interior, traditionally served with honey or powdered sugar. These puffy treats are perfect as a dessert or snack and can also be enjoyed with savory fillings.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).
Cut in shortening or butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add warm water and mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead on a lightly floured surface for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
Cover the dough and let it rest for 20–30 minutes.
Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into squares or triangles (about 3–4 inches).
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 375°F (190°C).
Fry dough pieces in batches, flipping once, until puffed and golden brown (1–2 minutes per side).
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serve warm with honey, powdered sugar, or cinnamon sugar.
Notes
Make sure oil is fully heated to 375°F before frying for best puff.Roll dough evenly to ensure even cooking and puffing.Sopapillas can be sweet or savory—omit sugar for savory uses.Dough can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.Use a slotted spoon to flip and remove fried sopapillas safely.
