Bunuelos(Mexican Fritters)
Bunuelos are crispy Mexican fritters, lightly sweet and cinnamon-spiced, perfect as a snack or dessert to delight family and friends with warm, tender bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together flour, baking powder, salt, and cream of tartar.
- Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Combine eggs and milk.
- Add to flour mixture all at once and stir just until dough sticks together.
- On a floured surface, knead dough until smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Let stand, covered, for 30 minutes.
- Divide dough into 24 portions and shape into balls.
- Roll each ball on a floured surface into a 4-inch circle.
- Heat 1/2 to 1 inch of oil in a 10-inch skillet.
- Fry each circle for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes on each side or until brown.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Sprinkle with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, make sure not to over-knead the dough. If you don't have shortening, butter or margarine can be used as a substitute. Adjust the sugar and cinnamon based on your desired sweetness, and feel free to experiment with flavors by adding a hint of vanilla or nutmeg for a unique twist. This recipe is a great way to explore traditional Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Buñuelos are best served warm, dusted with the sugar and cinnamon mixture. They pair beautifully with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee. Consider serving them alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. For a festive touch, serve with the Avocado Dish Salad for a colorful, complementary side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover buñuelos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bunuelos(Mexican Fritters) contains roughly 227 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is a good source of potassium (18% of the Daily Value).
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 in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and frying. This can help save time on busy days.
What oil is best for frying buñuelos?
For frying buñuelos, a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, works best. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can impart a strong flavor. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
Can I freeze buñuelos?
Yes, buñuelos can be frozen. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
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).