If you’re craving a delightful dessert that captures the spirit of traditional Mexican cuisine, look no further than Buñuelos Con Piloncillo. These scrumptious fried pastries, drizzled with a sweet piloncillo syrup, are popular across many Latin American countries, especially during festive seasons. Originating from Spain, this treat has found its way into Mexican households, becoming a beloved staple at celebrations like Día de los Muertos and Christmas.
In this article, you’ll discover how to make Buñuelos Con Piloncillo at home, along with variations, tips for perfecting the recipe, and even some interesting facts about this delicious dessert. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Measurement | Description |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | All-purpose flour provides the perfect base for the buñuelos, giving them that crispy texture. |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | This ingredient helps the buñuelos to puff up and become airy during frying. |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | A pinch of salt enhances flavors and balances the sweetness of the piloncillo syrup. |
| Sugar | 2 tbsp | Adding sugar to the dough helps to caramelize the buñuelos, giving them a light sweetness. |
| Warm water | 3/4 cup | Used to bring the dough together, warm water helps activate the ingredients. |
| Oil for frying | For frying | Choose a high-smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil for a crispier finish. |
| Piloncillo (or brown sugar) | 1 cup | Piloncillo, a type of unrefined cane sugar, brings a deep caramel flavor that is essential for the syrup. |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp | Adding cinnamon to the syrup infuses warmth and a hint of spice, enhancing every bite. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough – In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mix well before adding warm water gradually. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- Make the Piloncillo Syrup – In a small saucepan, combine the piloncillo, ground cinnamon, and 1 cup of water. Heat on medium until the piloncillo dissolves completely. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Form the Buñuelos – Roll out the rested dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into desired shapes—traditionally, they are round. You can use a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
- Fry the Buñuelos – Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the buñuelos, frying until golden brown on each side. This takes about 1-2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve with Syrup – Arrange the fried buñuelos on a serving plate and generously drizzle with piloncillo syrup. Enjoy warm, paired with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired!
Pro Tips
- For an extra crunchy texture, let the fried buñuelos rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels.
- If you can’t find piloncillo, brown sugar can be substituted, but the flavor will be less robust.
- Feel free to experiment with the shapes of the buñuelos; they can be made in various forms to suit your preference.
- Try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the piloncillo syrup for an exciting twist!
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Buñuelo) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Saturated Fats | 3g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Total Fat | 7g |
FAQs
What is the best way to store Buñuelos Con Piloncillo?
To store Buñuelos Con Piloncillo, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them without the syrup and reheating when needed.
Can Buñuelos Con Piloncillo be made vegan or gluten-free?
Yes! To make these buñuelos vegan, substitute the ingredients with plant-based options, such as using almond milk instead of water. For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Buñuelos Con Piloncillo?
Buñuelos pair wonderfully with a fruit salad, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the sweetness.
How long does it take to prepare Buñuelos Con Piloncillo?
Preparing and cooking Buñuelos Con Piloncillo will take about 1 hour, including resting time for the dough.
Can I freeze Buñuelos Con Piloncillo for later?
Absolutely! They freeze well. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.
What oils are best for frying Buñuelos?
Use oils with high smoke points, like canola or vegetable oil, as they provide the best frying results without burning.
Can I add flavors to the dough?
Yes! Feel free to add a touch of vanilla extract or even citrus zest to the dough to give your Buñuelos Con Piloncillo a unique twist.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until it becomes smooth and workable.
Now that you know how to make these delightful Buñuelos Con Piloncillo, it’s time to put on your apron and get started! These sweet treats are perfect for any occasion, bringing a touch of tradition and warmth to your table. Don’t forget to drizzle them generously with piloncillo syrup for that authentic taste. Did you try this recipe? We would love to hear about your experience—share your thoughts in the comments below!
