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+ servings
Close-up of golden fried pastries dusted lightly with powdered sugar.

Sopaipillas Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
This Sopaipillas Recipe is all about comfort, simplicity, and that perfect golden crunch! These airy, pillowy bites are made from just a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry—flour, baking powder, a bit of shortening, and salt. Fry them up, and you’ll get crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside treats that are so versatile. They’re amazing with honey, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a savory dip like salsa. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or any time you want something deliciously unique. Honestly, once you taste one, you’ll be coming back for more—these are just too good to resist!
24 Servings

Ingredients

  • 4 c all-purpose flour
  • 4 tbsp shortening
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 ½ c warm water
  • 2 qt oil for frying

Instructions
 

  1. Gather Your Ingredients: First, make sure you have everything laid out and ready—flour, shortening, baking powder, salt, water, and oil. It’s always easier when everything’s within reach!
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, shortening, baking powder, and salt. Slowly pour in the warm water, stirring bit by bit, until the dough starts to come together and feels smooth and soft. Once mixed, cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rest for about 20 minutes. This quick break helps make the dough easier to roll out.
  3. Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat the oil to 375°F (190°C). If you have a thermometer, great! If not, test with a small piece of dough—it should sizzle and rise to the top pretty quickly.
  4. Roll Out the Dough: Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thickness. Go with whatever thickness you prefer—thinner dough will be a bit crisper, thicker will be a bit softer. Cut into 3-inch squares.
  5. Fry the Dough: Carefully drop a few squares into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until they’re golden brown on both sides, flipping halfway through.
  6. Drain and Serve: Remove the sopaipillas with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve them hot and enjoy!

Notes

Making these sopaipillas gluten-free is easier than you’d think! Just swap out the all-purpose flour with a good gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking (something with xanthan gum is great for holding the dough together). You might need a bit less water, so add it gradually to get a smooth, soft dough that’s easy to roll out. Everything else stays the same—follow the steps, fry them up, and you’ll get beautifully puffed, crispy sopaipillas that taste just as delicious as the original. Perfect for anyone craving this tasty treat without the gluten!
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