18 Crispy Bunuelos Recipes You Must Try

Posted on April 2, 2025

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Are you ready to take your snack game to the next level? Look no further than the deliciously crispy and sweet buñuelos! These Latin-inspired treats have been a staple in many cultures for centuries, and it’s easy to see why. With their crunchy exterior and soft interior, they’re the perfect companion to a warm cup of coffee or tea.

From traditional Colombian recipes to creative twists like pumpkin spice and chocolate-stuffed, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering buñuelos recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or something savory, there’s something on this list for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to indulge in the crispy, crunchy goodness of these amazing treats!

Traditional Colombian Buñuelos

Traditional Colombian Buñuelos
Buñuelos are crispy, sweet fried dough balls coated in sugar and cinnamon, a classic Colombian treat enjoyed during the Christmas season.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Sugar and cinnamon for coating

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead until smooth and elastic.
3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Pinch off small pieces of dough and shape into balls.
6. Fry buñuelos for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. While still warm, coat in sugar and cinnamon.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Enjoy your crispy and delicious Colombian Buñuelos!

Mexican Buñuelos with Cinnamon Sugar

Mexican Buñuelos with Cinnamon Sugar
Mexican Buñuelos with Cinnamon Sugar: A Crunchy Treat for Any Occasion

These sweet fried dough balls are coated in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, making them irresistible to anyone who tries one. Perfect for snacking or as a dessert, buñuelos are a staple in Mexican cuisine.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)

Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and pliable.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Roll out the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Fry the dough balls for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. While still warm, toss the buñuelos in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Cheesy Buñuelos with Queso Fresco

Cheesy Buñuelos with Queso Fresco
Buñuelos are crispy fried dough balls typically coated in sugar, but we’re taking them to the next level by adding melted queso fresco and extra cheese for an ooey-gooey treat. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for parties or as a sweet and savory dessert.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup queso fresco, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
2. Gradually add sugar, oil, and queso fresco; mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
4. Roll out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into small squares or use a cookie cutter.
6. Fry in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and let cool slightly.
8. If desired, brush with beaten egg for extra crispy coating.
9. Serve warm, garnished with additional queso fresco and cheddar cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes

Pumpkin Spice Buñuelos

Pumpkin Spice Buñuelos
Experience the warm flavors of fall with these sweet and spicy Pumpkin Spice Buñuelos, perfect for a cozy evening or special gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Add sugar, pumpkin puree, and heavy cream to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
4. Drop tablespoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil, about 6-8 at a time.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain buñuelos on paper towels and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total (depending on the number of buñuelos)

Sweet Potato Buñuelos with Honey Drizzle

Sweet Potato Buñuelos with Honey Drizzle
Transform traditional Spanish doughnuts into a sweet potato-infused treat with this unique recipe. Enjoy the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy exterior and fluffy, sweet interior.

Ingredients:

– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Honey, for drizzling (see below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until smooth.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the dough into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
7. Drizzle with honey by mixing equal parts honey and warm water to create a thin glaze.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Gluten-Free Buñuelos with Almond Flour

Gluten-Free Buñuelos with Almond Flour
A traditional Mexican treat gets a gluten-free makeover using almond flour, perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add baking powder and whisk until combined.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Beat in the egg until well incorporated.
5. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Using a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the oil, about the size of a golf ball.
8. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and puffed up.
9. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
10. Dust with powdered sugar (if desired) and serve warm.

Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total, including resting time.

Vegan Buñuelos with Coconut Milk

Vegan Buñuelos with Coconut Milk
Vegan Buñuelos with Coconut Milk: A delicious Spanish-inspired dessert that’s perfect for snacking or serving at a party!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, coconut milk, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Add sugar and yeast to the mixture. Gradually add warm water while stirring.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the dough into the oil, flattening them slightly to form buñuelos.
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
8. Dust with powdered sugar (if desired) and serve warm.

Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes, including resting time.

Chocolate-Stuffed Buñuelos

Chocolate-Stuffed Buñuelos
These sweet treats are a twist on the traditional Mexican cookies, buñuelos. Soft and fluffy on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and filled with rich dark chocolate, they’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add sugar, milk, and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients; mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil (about 1/4 cup each).
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown; flip and fry for another minute.
6. Remove buñuelos from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Allow buñuelos to cool slightly before stuffing with melted dark chocolate chips.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Buñuelos de Viento (Light and Airy Spanish Buñuelos)

Buñuelos de Viento (Light and Airy Spanish Buñuelos)
These crispy, light-as-air buñuelos are a traditional Spanish delight, perfect for snacking or serving as a sweet treat. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these airy wonders at home.

Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup warm water
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the oil, mixing until the dough comes together.
3. Add the warm water, kneading until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of dough into the oil, flattening slightly.
7. Fry buñuelos until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
8. Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes

Buñuelos de Yuca (Cassava Buñuelos)

Buñuelos de Yuca (Cassava Buñuelos)
Buñuelos de Yuca are a popular Venezuelan treat, perfect for snacking or serving as a dessert. These sweet cassava fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them irresistible to anyone who tries them.

Ingredients:

– 2 large cassava roots (about 1 pound), peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons whole milk
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine grated cassava, sugar, and salt.
2. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the cassava mixture into the hot oil.
4. Fry the buñuelos for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
7. Dust the warm buñuelos with powdered sugar (if desired) and serve.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Anise-Flavored Buñuelos

Anise-Flavored Buñuelos
Buñuelos are traditional Spanish fritters that are perfect for snacking or as a dessert. This recipe adds an extra layer of flavor with the addition of anise, giving it a unique and aromatic twist.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon anise extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, milk, egg, and anise extract. Whisk until smooth.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until a thick batter forms.
4. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Drop tablespoonfuls of batter into the oil.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional) and serve warm.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Buñuelos with Guava Paste Filling

Buñuelos with Guava Paste Filling
Experience the delightful fusion of crispy fried dough and sweet guava paste filling with these traditional Mexican treats, perfect for snacking or dessert.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Guava paste filling (store-bought or homemade)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add vegetable oil and warm water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C). Fry the dough balls until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Drain and dust with powdered sugar. Fill each buñuelo with guava paste filling.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Savory Cheese and Herb Buñuelos

Savory Cheese and Herb Buñuelos
These crispy buñuelos are filled with a savory blend of cheeses, herbs, and spices, making them the perfect snack for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 3 tablespoons warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
+ 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
+ 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
+ 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
+ 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
+ Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and shortening. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Place a tablespoon of cheese mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, and press edges together to seal.
6. Heat enough oil in a deep frying pan to shallow-fry the buñuelos. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes to fry all the buñuelos.

Buñuelos with Dulce de Leche Dip

Buñuelos with Dulce de Leche Dip
Buñuelos are a classic Latin American treat that pair perfectly with a sweet and creamy dulce de leche dip. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make these crispy fried dough balls and serve them with a rich caramel-like sauce.

Ingredients:

For the Buñuelos:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water

For the Dulce de Leche Dip:

– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add oil and warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
3. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
4. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry dough balls until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels.
7. For the dip, combine sweetened condensed milk and butter in a saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and creamy (about 10 minutes).
8. Serve warm Buñuelos with dulce de leche dip.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Orange Zest Buñuelos with Vanilla Glaze

Orange Zest Buñuelos with Vanilla Glaze
A sweet and citrusy twist on the classic Spanish treat, these Orange Zest Buñuelos are infused with the warmth of vanilla and a hint of orange zest.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Vanilla Glaze (recipe below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Vanilla Glaze:

– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whisk together ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over warm buñuelos.

Buñuelos de Maíz (Cornmeal Buñuelos)

Buñuelos de Maíz (Cornmeal Buñuelos)
Buñuelos de Maíz are a popular Mexican dessert that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a sweet cornmeal flavor. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or serving at parties.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 large egg
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, mix sugar, oil, and egg.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into small squares or shapes. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Buñuelos with Spiced Rum Syrup

Buñuelos with Spiced Rum Syrup
Sweet Fried Dough Balls with a Kick: Buñuelos with Spiced Rum Syrup

These crispy fried dough balls are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and anise, then drizzled with a sweet and spicy spiced rum syrup. Perfect for a cozy gathering or as a unique dessert.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground anise
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Spiced Rum Syrup (recipe below)
– Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, lard or shortening, salt, cinnamon, and anise.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
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 hot oil.
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar.

Spiced Rum Syrup:

– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup spiced rum (or to taste)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon ground anise

Combine sugar, water, and spiced rum in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in cinnamon and anise.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Crispy Buñuelos with Powdered Sugar

Crispy Buñuelos with Powdered Sugar
Get ready to delight your senses with these crunchy and sweet Mexican treats! Buñuelos are traditional fritters made from corn flour, and when drizzled with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, they become an irresistible snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups corn flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine corn flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the vegetable oil and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
6. Fry the buñuelos in hot oil (about 350°F) for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Dust with powdered sugar while still warm.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in the crispy, sweet, and savory world of buñuelos! This article presents 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of this traditional Latin American dessert. From classic Colombian-style buñuelos to creative variations like cheesy, pumpkin-spiced, and chocolate-stuffed, there’s something for everyone. Plus, discover unique flavor combinations like anise-flavored, guava-filled, and spiced rum-infused treats. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory snack, these crispy buñuelos recipes are sure to delight your taste buds!

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