Sweet cravings got you down? Look no further! Crispy bunuelos are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. These delicate, fried dough pastries have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, and we’re excited to share 18 mouthwatering recipes with you.
From classic cinnamon sugar bunuelos to pumpkin spice variations and cheesy twists, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or looking for some savory options, these crispy, golden brown bites are sure to please. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of bunuelos, exploring different flavors, textures, and toppings that will take your snack game to the next level.
So, grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s start our journey through the wonderful world of crispy bunuelos!
Traditional Mexican Bunuelos with Cinnamon Sugar
Bunuelos are a classic Mexican dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. These crispy, sweet fried dough balls coated in cinnamon sugar are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Cinnamon sugar (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the vegetable oil and warm water, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Roll out the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Fry the balls until they’re golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Remove the bunuelos from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. While still warm, toss the bunuelos in cinnamon sugar mixture.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Bunuelos with Maple Glaze
Warm up with these crispy, sweet, and spicy bunuelos infused with the flavors of pumpkin pie spice, perfect for a fall treat or dessert. This recipe combines traditional Spanish doughnuts with the comforting tastes of autumn.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Maple glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add milk and pumpkin pie spice; mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of batter into the hot oil, about 5-6 bunuelos at a time.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown; flip and cook an additional minute.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Maple Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over warm bunuelos and serve immediately.
Cheesy Bunuelos with Queso Fresco
Bunuelos are traditional Mexican fried dough balls coated in cinnamon sugar, but we’re taking it to the next level by adding melted queso fresco for a creamy, sweet, and savory treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Queso fresco, crumbled (about 1/2 cup)
– Powdered cinnamon for coating
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add oil, stirring until dough forms.
3. Knead for 5 minutes, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide dough into small balls (about 1-inch diameter).
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Fry dough balls until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
7. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. In a separate pan, melt queso fresco over low heat.
9. Coat fried bunuelos with cinnamon sugar, then drizzle with melted queso fresco.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate-Stuffed Bunuelos with Dulce de Leche
Elevate your snack game with these indulgent treats that combine the crispy, sweet goodness of bunuelos with the rich flavors of chocolate and dulce de leche. Perfect for a quick dessert or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of bunuelo mix
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dulce de leche (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Follow the package instructions to prepare the bunuelo dough. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cut into desired shapes and fry in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Drizzle melted chocolate over warm bunuelos and top with dulce de leche.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (including frying time).
Orange Zest Bunuelos with Honey Drizzle
Experience the sweet and tangy combination of orange zest, crispy bunuelos, and a drizzle of warm honey in this easy-to-make dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
– Honey, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. Add oil, egg, and orange zest; mix until smooth.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until pliable. Roll out to 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., strips or squares). Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Dust with powdered sugar while still warm. Drizzle with honey and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten-Free Almond Flour Bunuelos
Gluten-Free Almond Flour Bunuelos: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Mexican Treat
Bunuelos are crispy, sweet fried dough balls coated in cinnamon and sugar. This gluten-free version uses almond flour instead of traditional wheat flour, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1 large egg
– Cinnamon and sugar for coating
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the melted coconut oil, egg, and whisk until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness and cut into desired shapes (e.g., balls, strips).
6. Fry the bunuelos for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffed up.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. While still warm, coat in cinnamon and sugar mixture.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
Vegan Bunuelos with Coconut Sugar Coating
Vegan Bunuelos with Coconut Sugar Coating: A Sweet Treat
These crispy and delicate fried dough balls are coated in a sweet and crunchy coconut sugar mixture, making them a perfect vegan treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Coconut sugar, for coating
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add in coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, and water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Once hot, add small balls of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) to fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil and let cool slightly.
8. In a shallow dish, mix coconut sugar and a pinch of salt.
9. Coat the fried bunuelos in coconut sugar mixture while still warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (10-12 minutes per batch)
Enjoy your delicious vegan bunuelos with a sweet and crunchy coconut sugar coating!
Apple Cinnamon Bunuelos with Caramel Sauce
These crispy, cinnamon-spiced bunuelos are filled with the warmth of apples and drizzled with a rich caramel sauce. Perfect for a cozy snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Gala)
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, and sugar.
3. Add milk, egg, and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in diced apples.
5. Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil, cooking for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with caramel sauce drizzled over.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Savory Garlic and Herb Bunuelos
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, flavorful Spanish-style fried dough balls infused with the richness of garlic and herbs. Perfect for a quick appetizer or as a side to your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Using a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the oil, about 1/2 inch apart.
7. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping occasionally.
8. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
9. Sprinkle with garlic, parsley, chives, and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana Bread Bunuelos with Nutella Dip
Transform traditional bunuelos into a sweet and indulgent dessert by incorporating mashed banana and walnuts, then pair it with a rich Nutella dip. This unique treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Nutella dip (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add mashed bananas, sugar, and walnuts to the dry ingredients. Mix until combined.
3. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cup each.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm with Nutella dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes to fry the bunuelos.
Pecan Praline Bunuelos with Bourbon Glaze
These crispy fried dough balls are coated in a rich pecan praline mixture and served with a drizzle of bourbon glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or as a unique dessert to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Pecan praline mixture (see below)
– Bourbon glaze (see below)
Pecan Praline Mixture:
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Bourbon Glaze:
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead for 5 minutes and let rise for 1 hour.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
5. Fry dough balls until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain excess oil and coat with pecan praline mixture.
7. Drizzle with bourbon glaze and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Bunuelos with Yogurt Frosting
Lemon Poppy Seed Bunnelos with Yogurt Frosting: A Sweet and Tangy Treat
These crispy fried dough balls are infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the nutty flavor of poppy seeds, then topped with a creamy yogurt frosting. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Yogurt frosting (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
3. Add lemon zest and poppy seeds; mix well.
4. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Fry dough balls in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
8. For yogurt frosting, mix together 1 cup plain yogurt, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spiced Chai Bunuelos with Vanilla Icing
Warm up with a sweet and spicy twist on traditional churros! These Spiced Chai Bunuelos are perfect for a cozy evening treat or as a unique dessert to serve at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
– Vanilla icing (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Pipe dough through a star tip into long strips.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
7. Serve warm with Vanilla Icing (recipe below).
Vanilla Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
– 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
Mix until smooth and adjust consistency as needed.
Coconut Bunuelos with Pineapple Dipping Sauce
These crispy, sweet, and savory coconut bunuelos are perfect for a snack or dessert. Serve them with a tangy pineapple dipping sauce for an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Pineapple Dipping Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Add the baking powder and mix well.
3. Stir in the unsweetened shredded coconut.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the coconut mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels.
Pineapple Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Serve with the coconut bunuelos.
Red Velvet Bunuelos with Cream Cheese Drizzle
Elevate your snack game with these tender, crispy bunnuelos infused with the deep flavor of red velvet and topped with a tangy cream cheese drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup red velvet baking powder mix
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cream cheese drizzle (see below)
Cream Cheese Drizzle:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, red velvet baking powder mix, and salt.
3. Gradually add granulated sugar and milk to form a smooth dough.
4. Fry the dough in batches until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per batch).
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
6. For cream cheese drizzle, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
7. Drizzle over warm bunnuelos.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Bunuelos with White Chocolate
Elevate your snack game with this unique fusion of Japanese matcha and Spanish churros. Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, these green tea-infused bunuelos are drizzled with white chocolate for an added touch of luxury.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– White chocolate chips or chunks (for drizzling)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, matcha powder, and salt.
3. Add vegetable oil, milk, and beaten egg to the dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
4. Pipe the batter into long strips (about 1/4 inch thick).
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Drizzle with white chocolate and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter and Jelly Bunuelos
Take a classic snack game to the next level with these crispy, sweet, and crunchy peanut butter and jelly bunuelos. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a fun treat for kids (and adults!) alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– Peanut butter and jelly filling (see below)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Peanut Butter and Jelly Filling:
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons grape or strawberry jelly
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, and peanut butter until smooth.
3. Gradually pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., strips or shapes).
6. Fry in hot oil for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm with peanut butter and jelly filling.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rum Raisin Bunuelos with Powdered Sugar
Experience the combination of crispy, sweet bunuelos and the warmth of rum-soaked raisins in this indulgent dessert. Perfect for special occasions or as a surprise treat for loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of bunuelo mix (about 12-15 pieces)
– 1 cup raisins
– 2 tablespoons dark rum
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together bunuelo mix and 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
3. Fry the bunuelos according to package instructions until golden brown (about 3-5 minutes).
4. Meanwhile, soak raisins in dark rum for at least 30 minutes.
5. Drain excess rum from raisins and set aside.
6. Dust fried bunuelos with powdered sugar while still warm.
7. Serve warm bunuelos topped with soaked raisins and a drizzle of any remaining rum syrup (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the crispy, sweet goodness of bunuelos with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From traditional Mexican flavors to creative twists like pumpkin spice and matcha green tea, there’s something for everyone. Try cinnamon sugar, queso fresco, or dulce de leche fillings for a taste of Mexico. Or, go savory with garlic and herb or pecan praline. And don’t forget sweet treats like nutella dip, bourbon glaze, and white chocolate drizzle. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking to spice up your snack game, these bunuelos recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
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