Sopaipillas

By Tamipri

Ingredients

• 3 c. all-purpose flour
• 3 tsp. baking powder
• 2 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon, divided
• 3/4 tsp. salt
• 3 Tb. all-vegetable shortening
• 3/4 c. warm water
• vegetable oil for frying
• 1 c. sugar
• honey
• softened butter

Preparation

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, 1/4 tsp. cinnamon, and salt. Rub in shortening with fingers until mixture is crumbly. Add water, stirring to combine. On a clean, flat surface, knead dough until it comes together. Cover, and let stand for 30 minutes. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/8" thickness. Cut into 3" squares. In a large Dutch oven or fryer, pour oil to a depth of 4"; heat to 380 degrees. Fry dough, 2or 3 squares at a time, for 1-2 minutes per side, or until puffed and golden brown. In a shallow dish, combine sugar and remaining 2 tsp. cinnamon. Dredge hot sopaipillas in sugar mixture to coat. Serve immediately with butter and honey.

Yield: 3 dozen