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Fluffy Sopapillas Recipe – Easy Homemade Dessert with Honey Drizzle

fluffy sopapillas recipe - featured image

Warm, golden pillows of fried dough—crispy on the outside, meltingly soft inside, finished with a honey drizzle. This easy homemade sopapillas recipe brings nostalgic comfort and is perfect for family gatherings or a sweet treat any time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) warm milk (whole or 2%; unsweetened almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (plus more for frying)
  • Neutral oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil; enough for 1 1/2 inches deep in pan)
  • Honey, for drizzling (or agave syrup for vegan)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
  • Ground cinnamon, for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until evenly combined.
  2. Pour in warm milk and vegetable oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. If too dry, add more milk 1 teaspoon at a time.
  3. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 2–3 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a towel and let rest for 15 minutes.
  4. While dough rests, pour neutral oil into a heavy skillet or Dutch oven to about 1 1/2 inches deep. Heat over medium to 350–375°F (175–190°C).
  5. On a floured surface, roll dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into 3-inch squares or triangles with a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
  6. Carefully lower a few pieces into hot oil, frying 1–2 minutes per side until puffed and golden brown. Flip with a slotted spoon or tongs.
  7. Transfer fried sopapillas to a plate lined with paper towels or a cooling rack to drain.
  8. While still warm, dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle with cinnamon if desired. Stack on a platter and drizzle generously with honey just before serving.

Notes

Resting the dough is key for puffiness. Fry in small batches to avoid soggy sopapillas. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 blend and add extra milk. For vegan, use plant milk and agave. Sopapillas are best served fresh and warm; reheat in a low oven to revive crispness. Drizzle honey just before serving to keep them crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: sopapillas, fried dough, honey drizzle, Mexican dessert, easy dessert, family recipe, comfort food, homemade, cinnamon sugar, quick dessert