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Fluffy Sopapillas Recipe: Easy Southwest Dessert with Honey Drizzle

fluffy sopapillas - featured image

These fluffy sopapillas are a classic Southwest dessert featuring airy, golden-fried pillows of dough, finished with a sweet honey drizzle. Quick to make and irresistibly delicious, they’re perfect for family gatherings or a cozy treat at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted shortening
  • 3/4 cup warm water
  • Neutral frying oil (vegetable or canola), enough for 2-3 inches in your pot
  • Honey, for drizzling
  • Optional: Powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Stir until evenly blended.
  2. Add vegetable oil or melted shortening and mix until the mixture looks crumbly.
  3. Slowly add warm water while mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
  4. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
  5. Place dough back in the bowl, cover, and let rest for 20 minutes.
  6. Pat dough into a rectangle and roll out to about 1/4 inch thick.
  7. Cut dough into 3-inch squares or triangles using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
  8. Heat 2-3 inches of neutral oil in a deep pot to 375°F.
  9. Fry 2-3 pieces of dough at a time, letting them puff up and cook for 1 minute on the first side, then flip and cook another 30-60 seconds until golden brown.
  10. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or a rack.
  11. While still warm, drizzle sopapillas with honey and dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar if desired.
  12. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Resting the dough is essential for fluffiness. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and add extra water if needed. Vegan version: use coconut oil or vegan shortening and agave syrup instead of honey. Sopapillas are best served fresh and warm.

Nutrition

Keywords: sopapillas, Southwest dessert, honey drizzle, fried dough, easy dessert, Mexican dessert, fluffy sopapillas, potluck, brunch, comfort food