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Air Fryer Sopapillas – Easy Must-Try Recipe | Cooks Dream

Sopapillas are a delightful and versatile pastry originating from Latin American cuisine, particularly cherished in Mexican and Tex-Mex cooking. Traditionally deep-fried to perfection, these fluffy treats can sometimes be daunting to prepare at home. However, thanks to the magic of the air fryer, you can enjoy guilt-free, crispy sopapillas with ease. In this article, we’ll guide you through an easy, must-try recipe for Air Fryer Sopapillas, perfect for impressing your family and friends.

What Are Sopapillas?

Sopapillas are light and airy pastry puffs that can be enjoyed either as a sweet or savoury dish. When served with honey, chocolate, or powdered sugar, they become a delectable dessert. Conversely, filled with savoury ingredients such as beans, cheese, or meats, they make for a hearty snack or meal. Their crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior make them irresistible!

Why Use an Air Fryer?

While traditional sopapillas are deep-fried, using an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil needed, making for a healthier version without sacrificing flavour or texture. The air fryer circulates hot air around the pastries, resulting in a crispy exterior that rivals any deep-fried counterpart. Plus, the cooking process is quicker and easier, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time.

Ingredients

For the Sopapillas:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons shortening or unsalted butter (softened)
• ¾ cup warm water
• Cooking spray (or a little oil for brushing)

For Serving:

• Honey, sugar, or cinnamon sugar for sprinkling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.
2. Add the shortening (or butter) to the flour mixture and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the warm water, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead the dough gently on a floured surface for about 2-3 minutes until smooth.
4. Cover the dough with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for about 20-30 minutes. This resting period helps the dough relax, making it easier to roll out.

Step 2: Shape the Sopapillas

1. After the dough has rested, divide it into 4 equal portions.
2. Roll each portion out on a floured surface until it reaches about ¼-inch thickness. Cut the rolled dough into squares or triangles, roughly 3 inches wide.
3. Optional: Allow the shapes to rest on a floured surface for an additional 10 minutes, which can aid in achieving that perfect puffiness.

Step 3: Air Fry the Sopapillas

1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Place the sopapilla pieces in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other. This allows for even cooking and crispiness.
4. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and puffed up. Do not overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if necessary.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove the sopapillas from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly. Serve them warm, drizzled with honey or sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon for an extra touch of sweetness. You can also serve them with chocolate sauce, or fill them with your choice of savoury ingredients for a delightful twist.

Tips for the Perfect Sopapillas

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for achieving that desirable puffiness.
• Keep the temperature steady: Make sure the air fryer is preheated for even cooking.
• Experiment with fillings: Try stuffing your sopapillas with cream cheese, fruit, or savoury meats to create unique flavour combinations.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Sopapillas are a delicious and easy treat that everyone can enjoy, whether as a sweet indulgence or a savoury snack. With this simple recipe, you can create a delightful dish that brings the flavours of Latin America right into your kitchen. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a cosy night in, these sopapillas are a must-try! Give them a go, and your taste buds will thank you. Happy cooking!

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