Okay, here we go! Let’s chat about one of my family’s absolute favorite treats: Homemade Buñuelos! The first time I attempted them, my youngest declared them “better than donuts!” That was a dinnertime nutrition win I’ll never forget.
I was determined to create a sweet treat that didn’t leave me feeling guilty. These Homemade Buñuelos are surprisingly simple and bring so much joy to our family. They’re a reminder that even the busiest moms can create nourishing and delicious moments.
These crispy, sweet Homemade Buñuelos have become a cherished tradition in my home. They bring back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. They prove that you don’t need complicated recipes for delicious, nutritious results.
I get it, fellow nutrition-seekers! Balancing family life and wellness can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’m here to share sanity-saving nutrition ideas that are both doable and delightful.
So, if you’re ready to ditch the kitchen overwhelm and discover how to whip up these amazing Homemade Buñuelos, let’s get started! You’ll be surprised how easy it is to create a little magic in your own kitchen.
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour: (Or, for extra fiber, I sometimes use 1 cup all-purpose and 1 cup whole wheat!)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: (This gives them the perfect puff!)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: (Balances the sweetness perfectly.)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: (Just enough to add a touch of sweetness to the dough.)
- 1/4 cup vegetable shortening: (This makes them extra crispy, but you can substitute with coconut oil for a healthier twist!)
- 3/4 cup warm water: (Temperature is key for activating the dough.)
- Vegetable oil, for frying: (Canola oil works great, too! Just make sure it’s enough to fully submerge the Homemade Buñuelos.)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: (For the cinnamon-sugar topping.)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: (Adds that warm, comforting flavor!)
Trust me, this Homemade Buñuelos ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity! You can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store.
Here’s a Homemade Buñuelos nutrition hack that changed our family’s health: using coconut oil instead of shortening. My family gets extra nutrition when I add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. It adds a warm, comforting flavor that everyone loves.
No worries if you don’t have shortening, I use coconut oil for extra nutrients in my Homemade Buñuelos. This Homemade Buñuelos proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive. I usually buy my cinnamon in bulk to save money.
Let’s Make it Happen!
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Trust me, this first step sets the stage for perfectly textured Fried Dough Buñuelos.
- Cut in the shortening using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect – we’re going for rustic charm here! This nutritious Homemade Buñuelos is forgiving.
- Gradually add the warm water, mixing until a dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but not overly wet. In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Homemade Buñuelos usually takes about 5 minutes to come together.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. The kneading is key for the right texture! Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch while the dough rests!
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rest for at least 30 minutes. I often let mine rest for an hour if I’m juggling school pick-ups. This step is crucial for easy rolling of the Homemade Buñuelos.
- While the dough is resting, combine the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Set aside. Your Homemade Buñuelos should smell nourishing by now.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). A candy thermometer is your friend here! Don’t worry if your Homemade Buñuelos looks a little uneven, that’s part of their charm!
- Divide the dough into small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a thin circle or oval, about 6-8 inches in diameter. I find that thinner is crispier!
- Carefully place one or two dough circles into the hot oil at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. This nutritious Homemade Buñuelos is ready when it floats to the top.
- Remove the Fried Dough Buñuelos from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Here’s where I used to struggle with my Homemade Buñuelos – learn from my experience!
- While still warm, dredge each Fried Dough Buñuelos in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, coating both sides evenly. I love the sound of the cinnamon sugar crackling on the warm Homemade Buñuelos.
- Transfer the Cinnamon Sugar Buñuelos to a serving plate and let cool slightly before serving. While your Homemade Buñuelos is cooking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family!
How We Love to Eat This!
My family loves to eat these Cinnamon Sugar Buñuelos warm, straight from the skillet. They’re the perfect treat for a cozy weekend breakfast or a special dessert after a simple dinner. I like to serve them with a side of fresh fruit, like strawberries or blueberries, for an added boost of vitamins.
The kids devour this nutritious Homemade Buñuelos when I serve it with a warm cup of milk or hot chocolate. Sometimes, I’ll even drizzle a little honey over them for extra sweetness. For a grown-up twist, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
This Homemade Buñuelos is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast! I’ve even made them ahead of time and reheated them in the oven. They’re also a great option for potlucks or family gatherings. Everyone always raves about them!
For presentation, I like to arrange the Cinnamon Sugar Buñuelos on a platter and dust them with a little extra cinnamon sugar. A sprig of mint adds a pop of color. The aroma alone is enough to make everyone’s mouth water!
If we have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re still delicious the next day, though they might lose a little of their crispness.
In the fall, I like to add a pinch of pumpkin spice to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a seasonal twist. My oldest son prefers them with a drizzle of chocolate syrup. This nutritious Homemade Buñuelos reminds me of another family-healthy favorite: Old Fashioned Gumdrop Nougat Candy
My friends always ask for the recipe after trying my Homemade Buñuelos.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Absolutely! While they are a sweet treat, you can make them healthier by using whole wheat flour, coconut oil, and adding fruit on the side. These Homemade Buñuelos can be a part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Presentation is key! Try cutting the Cinnamon Sugar Buñuelos into fun shapes or serving them with a dip they already love, like yogurt or applesauce. You can also involve them in the cooking process to pique their interest.
You can definitely make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling and frying. The fried Homemade Buñuelos are best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in the oven or toaster oven.
While frying gives them the traditional crispy texture, you can try baking them for a slightly healthier option. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. They won’t be as crispy, but they’ll still be delicious.
Homemade Buñuelos are popular in both Mexican and Spanish cuisine, with slight variations in the recipe. This recipe is a simple version that can be adapted to your preferences. The key is the crispy fried dough and the cinnamon-sugar topping!
Store leftover Homemade Buñuelos in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best eaten within 1-2 days. They might lose a bit of their crispness, but they’ll still taste great!
Yes! You can freeze the dough after you’ve kneaded it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using. If your kids love this wholesome recipe, they’ll go crazy for No Added Sugar Sugared Cranberries. For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board.
Final Thoughts:

Making Homemade Buñuelos is more than just following a recipe. It’s about creating memories with your family and sharing a delicious, comforting treat. I hope this recipe inspires you to get into the kitchen and create your own nourishing moments! I have several My Homemade Buñuelos Nutrition Hacks that I want to share with you!
- Whole Wheat Flour: Use half whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Coconut Oil: Substitute coconut oil for shortening for a healthier fat option.
- Fruit Toppings: Serve with fresh fruit for added vitamins and nutrients.
Here are 3 family-tested healthy Homemade Buñuelos variations:
- Pumpkin Spice Buñuelos: Add pumpkin pie spice to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Chocolate Drizzle Buñuelos: Drizzle melted chocolate over the warm Cinnamon Sugar Buñuelos.
- Honey-Glazed Buñuelos: Drizzle honey over the warm Homemade Buñuelos instead of using cinnamon sugar.
My youngest loves the chocolate drizzle version, while my oldest prefers the classic cinnamon-sugar. Feel free to experiment and find your family’s favorite! I encourage you to make this recipe your own and adapt it to your family’s preferences.
Remember, simple nutrition is about finding what works best for you and your family. It’s about creating sustainable habits that nourish your bodies and souls. I truly hope you enjoy this Homemade Buñuelos recipe and that it brings a little bit of joy to your kitchen.
So go ahead, give it a try! You might just discover your family’s new favorite treat. Happy cooking, fellow nutrition-seekers! Don’t forget to check out Mexican Bunuelos – Isabel Eats. Also read, How to Make Mexican Buñuelos Recipe (Quick and easy). You can also get more information from Sopapillas and Buñuelos: Origins and Variations in New Mexican …. Creating memories with Homemade Buñuelos is so rewarding.
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Homemade Buñuelos
These crispy, golden Homemade Buñuelos are a delightful treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. Lightly fried and dusted with cinnamon sugar, they’re an irresistible dessert or snack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
- 3/4 cup warm water
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in the vegetable shortening using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rest for at least 30 minutes.
- In a shallow dish, combine the sugar and cinnamon for coating.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle, about 6-8 inches in diameter.
- Carefully place each buñuelo into the hot oil and fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the buñuelos with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- While still warm, immediately coat each buñuelo generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Serve your buñuelos with a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.

