Crispy, golden, and sprinkled with sweet cinnamon sugar, Buñuelos are a beloved traditional treat enjoyed during holidays and family gatherings across Latin America and Spain. Whether served plain, drizzled with honey, or coated in syrup, these light and airy fritters bring a warm touch of nostalgia and celebration to every bite.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup warm milk (more if needed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For frying and coating:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Honey or piloncillo syrup (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Add the softened butter, egg, vanilla, and warm milk a little at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Rest the dough: Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rest for 30 minutes. This helps the gluten relax, making it easier to roll out later.
- Shape the buñuelos: Divide the dough into 10–12 small balls. On a lightly floured surface, roll each one into a very thin circle—almost translucent. The thinner they are, the crispier they’ll be.
- Heat the oil: In a deep frying pan, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat (around 350°F / 175°C). Test by dipping a small piece of dough—it should sizzle immediately.
- Fry until golden: Fry one buñuelo at a time, pressing gently with tongs or a spatula to keep it flat. Cook for about 30–45 seconds per side, until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels.
- Coat with sugar and cinnamon: Mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish. While still warm, sprinkle or toss each buñuelo in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve: Serve warm and crunchy with a drizzle of honey or piloncillo syrup for an authentic touch.
Pro Tips
- Roll the dough as thin as possible for a crispy texture.
- To make them extra special, top with warm syrup made from piloncillo, cinnamon, and water.
- These taste best freshly fried, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Perfect for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or anytime you crave a traditional sweet treat.
