Sopaipillas

Ingredients

• 1 pkg dry yeast
• 1/4 c. warm water
• 4 c. flour
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp shortening
• 1 1/2 c. milk, scalded
• Vegetable oil
• Honey or powdered sugar (optional)

Directions

Dissolve yeast in warm water; let stand 5 min.

Combine flour, salt, baking powder and sugar; cut in shortening. Make a well in center; add yeast mix and milk, mixing well.(The dough will be sticky.)

Turn out on floured surface and knead 15 to 20 times. Roll to 1/4 inch thickness; cut into 3 inch squares.

Heat 1/2 inch of oil in large skillet to about 370. Gently place dough squares in oil, a few at a time, lightly pressing down with the back of a fork until dough starts to bubble and puffs up; turn and cook on other side till barely golden in color. Drain on absorbent towels. Serve with honey or sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired. About 3 dozen.

(Note: When frying, rather than removing all at the same time, leave a few in skillet while adding additional ones; the ones left in the skillet will absorb the heat of the oil and keep it from overheating.)

Submitted 6/13/05.
Source: Southern Living 1980
Submitted By: Ruth A Burbage
burbage@pell.net
Sopaipillas