Spanish Buñuelos with Cinnamon Sugar

Buñuelos, a sweet pastry from Spain, are deep-fried dough balls that are dusted with cinnamon sugar. The golden-brown puffs are chewy and crispy at the same time, perfectly paired with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. Whether served plain or made into an indulgent dessert, this delicious treat is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup warm water (approximately 115ºF)
  • 1/4 cup white sugar
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup ground cinnamon
  • Additional sugar for the topping

Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine water, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt. Mix until everything is fully combined.
  2. Add in the flour, 1/4 cup at a time, stirring until the dough begins to form into a ball.
  3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes elastic and smooth.
  4. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, until it has doubled in size.
  5. Once the dough has risen, divide it into small pieces, about the size of a golf ball.
  6. Roll out each piece on a floured surface until it’s a circle, about 3/4 inch in diameter.
  7. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the oil until it’s hot but not smoking.
  8. Carefully drop each circle into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
  9. Once the buñuelos are cooked, drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
  10. In a shallow bowl, combine the sugar and ground cinnamon.
  11. While the buñuelos are still warm, dip them in the sugar-cinnamon mix, coating both sides.
  12. Serve the buñuelos warm, either alone or with your favorite ice cream. Enjoy!