Buuelos(Sweet Fried Bread)
Sweet fried bread balls with a crispy exterior and soft interior, coated in cinnamon-sugar or glazed, perfect for a delightful treat or festive occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar in a large mixing bowl and cut in margarine.
- Add beaten eggs and milk to the flour mixture and work into a dough.
- Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic.
- Form the dough into balls about the size of an egg.
- Cover the dough balls and set aside for 15 minutes.
- Roll each ball into a 4-inch diameter circle.
- Cut a small hole in the center of each circle.
- Place the circles between single layers of waxed paper until ready for frying.
- Heat 2 inches of shortening in a heavy pan at medium-high heat.
- Fry the dough circles until golden brown, then coat with cinnamon-sugar or glaze before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the dough is kneaded just until smooth, as over-kneading can make them dense. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter can be a suitable substitute. You can also experiment with flavored glazes, like vanilla or almond, for a unique twist. If you want to make them ahead, prepare the dough and refrigerate it before frying.
Serving Suggestions
Buuelos can be served as a delightful dessert or breakfast treat. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of hot chocolate or coffee. Consider serving them alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a savory contrast, serve with a side of Easy Vegetarian Chili or a refreshing Mexican Lettuce Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover buuelos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, 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 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buuelos(Sweet Fried Bread) contains roughly 550 calories, with 4g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value) and calcium (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1512mg per serving (66% 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 make the dough ahead of time! Prepare the dough and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to fry, allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and cutting.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
To check if the oil is hot enough, you can drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it bubbles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is ready. Alternatively, use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches around 350°F for optimal frying.
Can I bake buuelos instead of frying them?
While frying gives buuelos their signature texture and flavor, you can bake them for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the rolled dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway 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).