Bunuelos (Mexican Cookies)
Bunuelos are crispy, golden Mexican cookies with a hint of cinnamon, perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet treat with coffee or hot chocolate.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, milk, margarine, salt, baking powder, egg, and 1 tablespoon of sugar until well combined.
- Put the dough on a floured board and knead until smooth.
- Divide the dough into 36 1-inch balls and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Place the dough balls between 2 sheets of waxed paper, spacing them 3 inches apart.
- Roll each ball with a rolling pin until the dough is paper thin.
- Peel off the waxed paper.
- Heat deep, hot oil in an electric skillet at 370°F.
- Fry the pastries, four at a time, for 45 seconds on each side until golden.
- Drain on paper towels.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; this helps the buñuelos puff up. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter works well as a substitute. You can adjust the sugar and cinnamon to your taste or even add a pinch of nutmeg for a different flavor profile. Consider pairing these with a sweet dipping sauce for extra indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
Serve buñuelos warm, dusted with additional cinnamon and sugar for a delightful touch. They pair beautifully with hot chocolate or coffee, making them a perfect snack or dessert. For a fun twist, consider serving them alongside Breakfast Chili Rellenos for a true Mexican-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover buñuelos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you're looking to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes for that fresh, crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bunuelos (Mexican Cookies) contains roughly 67 calories, with 0g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just ensure you bring it back to room temperature before rolling and frying to achieve the best texture.
What can I use instead of white flour?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free option. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
How do I know when the buñuelos are done frying?
Buñuelos are done when they are golden brown and puffed up, which usually takes about 45 seconds on each side. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, as they can burn quickly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).