Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These sopaipillas are more than just fried dough—they’re a taste of Chilean tradition with a flavorful twist. The pumpkin not only adds subtle sweetness and a beautiful orange hue, but also keeps the inside soft and tender while the outside crisps up perfectly in the oil. The honey drizzle adds just the right amount of sweetness to elevate each bite. Easy to make with simple ingredients, this recipe is ideal for family gatherings, festive occasions, or simply when you want something special yet uncomplicated.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups all-purpose flour (+¼ cup for kneading)
400g pumpkin (or 1 cup pumpkin puree)
3 tablespoons butter (melted)
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Honey to taste
Oil for frying

Directions

1. Prepare the Pumpkin:
   Boil the pumpkin until fork-tender, then strain and reserve some of the cooking water. Let cool, then mash into a smooth puree.

2. Make the Dough:
   In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the melted butter and pumpkin puree. Mix until incorporated. Adjust texture by adding more flour if sticky or reserved pumpkin water if too dry. Let rest for 30 minutes.

3. Roll and Shape:
   On a floured surface, knead until soft and bouncy. Roll out with a rolling pin and cut into circles using a glass or cutter. Prick each round with a fork.

4. Fry the Sopaipillas:
   Heat oil in a pan over medium-high. Fry rounds until golden and crispy, about 2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

5. Serve:
   Drizzle with honey and enjoy warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–14 sopaipillas, depending on the size of the rounds. Preparation takes around 20 minutes, resting time 30 minutes, and frying about 10 minutes, for a total of 1 hour.

Variations

• For a savory version, serve sopaipillas with pebre (a Chilean salsa) or cheese instead of honey.

• Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar for an alternative sweet finish.

• Use sweet potato puree instead of pumpkin for a slightly different flavor.

• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough for a warming spice note.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover sopaipillas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a warm oven (300°F/150°C) for 5–7 minutes until crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating in the oven.

FAQs

What are Chilean sopaipillas traditionally served with?

They are often enjoyed with honey for a sweet version or with pebre or chili for a savory variation.

Can I bake sopaipillas instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, though they won’t be as crispy as fried ones.

Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely. Canned pumpkin works perfectly and saves time.

Why do I need to prick the dough before frying?

Pricking prevents the dough from puffing up too much, ensuring even frying and a nice texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until ready to use.

Do sopaipillas taste sweet without honey?

The pumpkin adds a natural sweetness, but the dough itself is mildly savory. The honey enhances that sweetness.

What oil is best for frying sopaipillas?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil work best because they don’t overpower the flavor.

How do I know the oil is ready for frying?

Drop a small piece of dough in—if it sizzles and rises to the top, the oil is ready.

Can I make sopaipillas gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary slightly.

Are sopaipillas eaten only as dessert in Chile?

No, they are versatile. In Chile, they’re often enjoyed as a snack, with stews, or as part of festive meals.

Conclusion

Chilean Pumpkin Sopaipillas with Honey are a wonderful fusion of simplicity, tradition, and flavor. Crispy on the outside, soft inside, and finished with a golden drizzle of honey, they capture the heart of Chilean comfort food. Whether you’re serving them for a festive occasion or as a cozy family snack, these sopaipillas are sure to bring joy to the table. Try them once, and they may just become a favorite in your kitchen too.

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