Bunuelos
Bunuelos are a delightful Mexican treat, perfect for festivals and family gatherings. These crispy, fried pastries are light and airy, typically dusted with cinnamon sugar.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- 2
Add 1/4 cup sugar and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon to the flour mixture. Stir well.
- 3
Gradually add 3/4 cup of warm water to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- 4
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- 5
Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball, and flatten each ball into a thin disk.
- 6
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat, ensuring enough oil to fully submerge the bunuelos.
- 7
Fry each disk in the hot oil until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
- 8
Remove the fried bunuelos and drain them on paper towels.
- 9
While still warm, dust the bunuelos with extra sugar mixed with ground cinnamon.
Cook notes
Tips
Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to get crispy bunuelos.
For a sweeter variation, add vanilla extract to the dough for extra flavor.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftover bunuelos in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Re-crisp leftover bunuelos in a hot oven for a few minutes before serving.
Substitutions
- For a gluten-free option, substitute 2 cups of gluten-free flour blend for all-purpose flour.
- Instead of vegetable oil, you can use canola oil for frying.
What to Serve With
- Mexican hot chocolate
- Fresh fruit salad
- Cinnamon coffee
Common Mistakes
- Not kneading the dough enough can result in dense bunuelos.
- Frying at too low a temperature will cause bunuelos to absorb excess oil. Remember to preheat the oil.
Recipe FAQ
What are bunuelos traditionally served with?
Bunuelos are often enjoyed with hot chocolate or sweetened milk.
Can bunuelos be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead, but it's best to fry them just before serving for freshness.
Are bunuelos gluten-free?
Traditional bunuelos are not gluten-free due to the use of all-purpose flour.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Blender
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Chef knife
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Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
Measuring spoons
Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.
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