Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these fluffy Sopapillas. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they are perfect for any occasion. Drizzle with honey for a sweet finish!
1. Start by sifting all-purpose flour into a large mixing bowl. This step is crucial because it aerates the flour and helps to remove any lumps. Once sifted, measure out the required amount and sift it again along with salt, baking powder, and sugar. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are well combined.
2. Next, cut in the shortening using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This is an important step that creates the flaky texture in the Sopapillas. You want to see small pieces of shortening throughout the dough.
3. Now, it’s time to add the milk. Pour it in gradually while mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be just firm enough to roll out, so adjust the milk if necessary.
4. Once your dough is ready, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 30 to 60 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.
5. After resting, lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a rolling pin to achieve an even thickness, and be careful not to over-flour your surface, as this can affect the texture of the Sopapillas.
6. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into diamond-shaped pieces. You can make them as big or small as you like, but remember that they will puff up when fried.
7. Now, heat approximately 1 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach about 375 degrees Fahrenheit. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop in a small piece of dough; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, you’re good to go.
8. Carefully add a few pieces of dough to the hot oil, so you don’t overcrowd the pan. This will help maintain the oil temperature. Fry them until they puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
9. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the Sopapillas from the oil and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. They’re best enjoyed fresh, so serve them warm!
10. If desired, sprinkle the warm Sopapillas with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. You can also serve them with honey for dipping, making them irresistible!
Notes
Here are some tips and variations to help you perfect your Sopapillas and make them your own!