Sopaipillas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sopaipillas are light, pillowy fried pastries that are a beloved treat across Latin America, especially in Chile and the American Southwest. Often served with honey or cinnamon sugar, these golden puffs are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Whether enjoyed sweet or savory, sopaipillas are a simple, satisfying recipe that comes together quickly and is perfect for any occasion.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
baking powder
salt
unsalted butter or shortening
warm water
vegetable oil (for frying)
honey or cinnamon sugar (for serving)

directions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cut in the butter or shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Gradually add warm water and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead briefly until smooth.

Cover the dough and let it rest for 20-30 minutes.

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into squares or circles, about 3–4 inches wide.

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 375°F (190°C).

Fry the dough pieces in batches, turning once, until golden and puffed (about 1-2 minutes per side).

Drain on paper towels and serve warm with honey or a dusting of cinnamon sugar.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 sopaipillas.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Resting time: 20-30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 45-55 minutes

Variations

Add mashed pumpkin or squash to the dough for a Chilean-style sopaipilla.
Serve with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate sauce for dessert.
Sprinkle with chili powder and cheese for a savory twist.
Use gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free version.

storage/reheating

Store leftover sopaipillas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.
Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

What are sopaipillas made of?
A simple dough of flour, baking powder, salt, and butter or shortening, fried until puffed.

Are they sweet or savory?
They can be either—traditionally sweetened with honey, but also great with savory toppings.

Why do they puff up?
The heat of the oil creates steam inside the dough, causing it to puff.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before rolling and frying.

Is there a baked version?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, but they won’t be as puffy or crispy.

Can I freeze sopaipillas?
Yes, freeze the fried sopaipillas in a single layer, then reheat in the oven as needed.

Conclusion

Sopaipillas are a versatile and delightful treat that can be tailored to your taste, whether you prefer them sweet or savory. With their crisp exterior and soft interior, they’re perfect for snacking, sharing, or serving alongside your favorite dishes. Simple to make and always satisfying, sopaipillas bring a taste of tradition to your table.

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