Bunuelos are a popular fried treat enjoyed in many cultures, especially in Latin America and Spain.
These crispy, golden fritters are often sprinkled with sugar or drizzled with syrup and are commonly eaten during holidays, festivals, or as a sweet snack anytime.
They are light, crunchy on the outside, and soft on the inside.
This article will guide you through a simple Bunuelos recipe, variations, and tips to make them perfectly every time.
Bunuelos Recipe
Bunuelos are thin, fried dough fritters that can be round, flat, or slightly puffed. They are usually sweetened with sugar or honey and flavored with cinnamon or anise.
The recipe is simple and requires basic ingredients found in most kitchens.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil
- 2/3 cup milk (or water)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Ground cinnamon and sugar for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution. Add melted butter and vanilla extract, then gradually add milk while mixing to form a soft, slightly sticky dough. Knead lightly for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
2. Rest the Dough
Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for 15–20 minutes. This makes the dough easier to roll out and produces lighter, fluffier bunuelos.
3. Roll and Shape
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into small balls and then flatten them into thin discs about 1/4 inch thick. You can also make them round or slightly irregular—both shapes work well.
4. Heat the Oil
Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat over medium heat until hot but not smoking (around 350°F or 175°C).
5. Fry the Bunuelos
Carefully place the dough discs into the hot oil, frying 2–3 at a time. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 1–2 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Add Sugar and Cinnamon
While still warm, sprinkle the bunuelos with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Different Variations
- Traditional Mexican: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and drizzle with piloncillo syrup.
- Cheese Bunuelos: Add a small amount of grated cheese to the dough for a savory twist.
- Pumpkin Bunuelos: Mix pumpkin puree and cinnamon into the dough for a seasonal flavor.
- Anise-Flavored: Add 1 teaspoon of anise seeds to the dough for a unique, aromatic taste.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Serve with melted chocolate on top for an indulgent treat.
Nutritional Benefits
While bunuelos are a sweet treat, they can provide quick energy from carbohydrates. Using whole milk and moderate sugar can make them slightly more nutritious.
Bunuelos can also be paired with fruit or a light beverage to create a balanced snack.
Tips for Perfect Bunuelos
- Oil temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough; too cold and the dough will absorb oil, too hot and it will burn.
- Thin discs: Roll the dough thin for a crispier texture.
- Serve warm: Bunuelos are best eaten fresh and warm.
- Storage: They taste best fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for 1 day. Reheat in an oven to maintain crispiness.
Popular Bunuelos Combinations
| Combination | Ingredients | Taste Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Cinnamon Sugar | Bunuelos + cinnamon sugar | Sweet and crunchy |
| Chocolate Drizzle | Bunuelos + melted chocolate | Sweet and rich |
| Honey-Lime | Bunuelos + honey + lime zest | Sweet and tangy |
| Pumpkin Spice | Bunuelos dough + pumpkin + cinnamon | Sweet and seasonal |
| Savory Cheese | Bunuelos dough + grated cheese | Savory and soft |
Serving Suggestions
- Pair bunuelos with hot chocolate or coffee for a perfect breakfast or snack.
- Serve with syrup, honey, or chocolate sauce for extra sweetness.
- Sprinkle powdered sugar for a classic presentation.
- Offer a small fruit side like berries for contrast and freshness.
Storage and Shelf Life
Bunuelos are best enjoyed fresh, ideally right after frying. If you need to store them, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Avoid refrigeration, as it may make them soggy. To refresh, reheat briefly in an oven or toaster oven to restore crispiness.
Conclusion
Bunuelos are a simple, versatile, and delicious treat that can be enjoyed in countless ways.
With this easy recipe, you can make soft, crispy, and golden fritters at home, perfect for holidays, special occasions, or a cozy snack.
Experiment with flavors and toppings to create your perfect bunuelos.