Sopaipillas (Mexican Fried Bread)
Delicious Mexican fried bread known as Sopaipillas offers a crispy, golden exterior with a soft interior, perfect for sweet or savory toppings, ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar into a large bowl.
- Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles cornmeal.
- Stir in the milk until the mixture forms a firm dough.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface just until smooth.
- Cover and let rest for 20 minutes.
- Roll out to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into squares or diamonds.
- Heat oil in a deep saucepan or deep fat fryer to 375°F (190°C) on a deep fat frying thermometer.
- Fry Sopaipillas, a few at a time, turning often so they fry evenly until golden brown.
- Remove from oil with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain.
- Serve hot with butter, sprinkled with cinnamon-sugar or powdered sugar, or with warm honey.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (375°F or 190°C) before frying to achieve a crispy texture. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter or lard can be used as substitutes. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little extra flour until manageable. This recipe is also a great base for sweet or savory fillings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sopaipillas warm, drizzled with honey or sprinkled with cinnamon-sugar for a delightful treat. They pair wonderfully with Creamy Guacamole or can be enjoyed as a side with Tomato, Spinach And Cheese Burritos for a complete meal. Experiment with different toppings for a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Sopaipillas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as they can become soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sopaipillas (Mexican Fried Bread) contains roughly 177 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 667mg per serving (29% 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 a few hours in advance. After kneading, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and frying. This can enhance the flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Sopaipillas?
Sopaipillas are versatile! Serve them with warm honey, or as a side with savory dishes like Mexican Creams(Candy) for a sweet finish. They also complement dips like Quick Nacho Dip beautifully for a fun appetizer.
Can I freeze Sopaipillas?
Yes, you can freeze cooked Sopaipillas. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven to restore their crispness.
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).