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In the depths of winter, when textures and flavors come alive in our cozy kitchens, I find myself craving something warm and delightful. That’s when these Vegan Bunuelos take center stage. Picture the aroma of freshly cooked dough wafting through the air, mingled with the sweet scent of cinnamon and sugar—a sensory memory that tugs at your heart. These traditional Mexican fritters are not just desserts; they’re a celebration of simplicity and taste, crafted from pantry staples that transform into crispy, golden treasures. In less than an hour, you can whip up a batch of these light and airy treats, perfect for holiday gatherings or just to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether enjoyed with a steaming cup of hot chocolate or shared during festive celebrations, these bunuelos promise to be a hit—bringing smiles and laughter to any occasion. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines flavor, ease, and a touch of love!

Why are Bunuelos a must-try treat?

Crispy Perfection: These bunuelos deliver a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with their tender interior.
Irresistible Aroma: The combination of cinnamon and sugar fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting fragrance.
Quick & Easy: Made with pantry staples, you can prepare these fritters in under an hour—perfect for last-minute cravings!
Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy a beloved traditional treat without any animal products, making them suitable for everyone.
Versatile Delights: Serve them warm with your favorite hot beverages or as a sweet addition to festive gatherings. For a delightful pairing, try serving your bunuelos with vegan champurrado for an extra special touch!

Bunuelos Ingredients

For the Dough

All-purpose flour – Provides structure and base for the dough. Can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Baking powder – Leavening agent that helps the bunuelos puff up.
Salt – Enhances flavor in the dough.
Coconut oil (melted) – Adds richness and moisture. Substitute with any neutral vegetable oil like avocado or sunflower oil.
Warm water – Hydrates the flour to form a pliable dough.

For Frying

Neutral vegetable oil (for frying) – Ensures even cooking; canola, peanut, or corn oil work well.

For the Coating

Cane sugar – Sweetens the cinnamon-sugar coating for flavor. Can substitute with unrefined cane sugar to maintain vegan integrity.
Cinnamon – Adds warm spice and sweetness to the coating. Remove if not preferred, or switch to Ceylon cinnamon for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Bunuelos

Sift Together: In a mixing bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures an even rise and light texture for your bunuelos.
Mix Ingredients: Pour the melted coconut oil and warm water into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until a cohesive dough forms—it’s okay if the dough is slightly sticky.
Knead: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic. You should be able to stretch it slightly without tearing.
Divide & Shape: Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it slightly. Cover with a damp towel and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
Roll Out: Using a tortilla press or rolling pin, roll each piece into a thin disc until it’s nearly transparent. This gives your bunuelos their classic delicate texture.
Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat 1-2 inches of neutral vegetable oil to 350-375°F. This temperature ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy.
Fry Bunuelos: Carefully fry each bunuelos for 30-45 seconds on each side, or until they turn golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pot—fry in batches for best results.
Drain & Coat: Once fried, place the bunuelos on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle them generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture while warm. Serve and enjoy!

Optional: Dust with extra cinnamon sugar before serving for a delightful touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Bunuelos are perfect for busy meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing, kneading, and shaping it into discs. Simply wrap the discs tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate them to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to fry, just bring the dough to room temperature for about 30 minutes, heat your oil, and fry as instructed. Additionally, you can also pre-mix the cinnamon-sugar coating and store it in a sealed container. Enjoy freshly fried bunuelos that taste just as delightful, saving you valuable time during festive gatherings!

Expert Tips for Perfect Bunuelos

Dough Consistency: Aim for a slightly sticky dough. If it’s too dry, add a touch more warm water to reach the right texture.
Oil Temperature: Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain the oil temperature. If it’s too hot, your bunuelos will burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil.
Frying Technique: Fry bunuelos one at a time to keep the oil temperature consistent. This ensures that each one cooks evenly and achieves that perfect crispy exterior.
Serving Fresh: For optimal enjoyment, serve bunuelos warm and immediately after coating them with cinnamon and sugar. They lose their crispiness as they cool.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, pop them in the oven to regain their crispiness.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment! Add a pinch of vanilla to the dough or use different spices for the coating to create your unique take on bunuelos.

Bunuelos Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these delightful bunuelos, as there are countless ways to customize and enhance their flavors!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a delicious alternative that’s just as enjoyable.
Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a rich, chocolatey variant that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon sugar.
Coconut Bliss: Substituting coconut oil with olive oil provides a unique flavor twist while keeping the bunuelos light and crispy.
Cinnamon Spice: Mix in a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for a fragrant and aromatic coating alternative.
Maple Sugar Switch: Swap cane sugar for maple sugar in the coating for a delightful caramel-like nuance to your bunuelos.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like mint or basil into the dough for a refreshing flavor contrast that surprises the palate.
Heat Lovers: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground chili powder to the dough before frying.
Fruity Finish: Toss the warm bunuelos in a mix of cinnamon sugar and orange zest for a bright and zesty twist that elevates their sweetness.

How to Store and Freeze Bunuelos

Room Temperature: Store leftover bunuelos covered at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their crispy texture.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days, but this may soften their crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unformed bunuelos dough. Shape dough balls, wrap in plastic, and place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before frying.

Reheating: To reheat and restore crispiness, preheat your oven to 350°F and warm bunuelos for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delightful bunuelos warm!

What to Serve with Vegan Bunuelos?

Treat your loved ones to a festive feast that pairs perfectly with these delightful fritters!

Vegan Champurrado: This thick, chocolatey drink complements the sweet, cinnamon-coated bunuelos perfectly while adding a comforting warmth.
Coconut Whipped Cream: A light and airy topping, it contrasts with the crunchy texture of bunuelos, enhancing the overall experience with creaminess.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing blend of citrus and berries brightens the sweet, fried flavors, adding a burst of juiciness and color to your plate.
Chocolate Sauce: Rich and indulgent, drizzling this over your bunuelos offers an irresistible combination of flavors that is sure to please.
Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: The warmth of cinnamon in hot chocolate echoes the flavors of your bunuelos, creating a cozy treat perfect for chilly evenings.
Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal blend balances the sweetness of the bunuelos, making it an ideal pairing for a relaxing afternoon snack.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this sweet sauce gives a decadent twist, allowing you to explore new flavor dimensions with your festive fritters.
Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of this cold treat can add delightful contrast, creating a beautiful texture combination with your warm bunuelos.
Nut Mix: Serve a bowl of spiced nuts alongside; the crunch and savory notes provide a pleasant balance to the sweetness of the bunuelos.

Bunuelos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripeness of ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure that your baking powder is fresh, as stale baking powder can affect the rise of your bunuelos. Additionally, if you’re using coconut oil, it should be melted but not too hot; a temperature around room temperature is perfect to avoid cooking the dough prematurely.

What’s the best way to store leftover bunuelos?
Very! You can store leftover bunuelos covered at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, which will help maintain their crispy texture. If you choose to refrigerate them in an airtight container, they can last for up to 5 days; however, they may lose some crispiness.

Can I freeze bunuelos?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, freeze the unformed bunuelos dough by shaping it into balls, wrapping each in plastic, and placing them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the dough overnight in the fridge before frying!

Why are my bunuelos greasy or not rising properly?
Great question! If your bunuelos are greasy, it could be that the oil temperature was too low during frying. Aim for 350-375°F to ensure they cook evenly without absorbing excess oil. If they’re not rising properly, your baking powder may not be fresh. Also, remember to knead the dough adequately to develop gluten for structure.

Are bunuelos safe for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! These vegan bunuelos contain no animal products, making them suitable for those following a vegan diet. If you’re concerned about gluten, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Always check ingredient labels for allergens, especially if you have nut sensitivities due to the oils used. Enjoy without worry!