If you’re looking for a sweet way to celebrate, Colombian buñuelos are a perfect choice. These delightful treats come in a variety of flavors, from cheesy goodness to sweet arequipe drizzles. Each one is a little taste of festive joy, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Let’s explore these 11 classic recipes that might just spark your next culinary adventure. Get ready to add a touch of Colombian tradition to your table!
Traditional Colombian Buñuelos

Buñuelos are a cherished traditional Colombian treat, often enjoyed during the festive holiday season but loved by many year-round. These delicious, round fritters are made from a mixture of cheese, flour, and eggs, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy center. The delightful contrast of textures makes buñuelos an irresistible snack or dessert, often served with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee.
Making buñuelos at home is straightforward, and the ingredients are typically easy to find in local grocery stores. The key to achieving the perfect buñuelos lies in the dough preparation and the frying technique. Using a combination of fresh cheese, such as queso blanco or mozzarella, contributes to the rich flavor and delightful cheesiness that defines this Colombian classic.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
- 2 cups of grated queso blanco (or mozzarella)
- 1 cup of tapioca flour (harina de yuca)
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated queso blanco, tapioca flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients together until they’re well incorporated.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Create a well in the center of the dry mixture and add the milk and eggs. Using your hands or a spatula, mix the ingredients together until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until everything is evenly moistened.
- Shape the Buñuelos: With your hands, take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about the size of a golf ball. Make sure they’re smooth and uniform, as this helps them cook evenly.
- Heat the Oil: In a large, deep frying pan or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of dough into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready for frying.
- Fry the Buñuelos: Carefully add the buñuelos to the hot oil in batches, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and puffed up.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the buñuelos from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Extra Tips:
To guarantee your buñuelos are light and fluffy, make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks; if it’s too cold, the buñuelos will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Additionally, experiment with different cheeses to find your preferred flavor profile, and consider dusting them with powdered sugar or serving them with a dipping sauce for an extra touch of sweetness!
Cheese-Stuffed Buñuelos

Cheese-Stuffed Buñuelos are a traditional Colombian treat that combines the delightful crunch of fried dough with the rich, savory flavor of cheese. These delectable snacks are often enjoyed during the holiday season but can be savored at any time of the year. The dough is made from a mixture of corn flour and cheese, molded into small balls, and deep-fried until golden brown. The result is a crispy exterior that gives way to a warm, cheesy filling that’s certain to please everyone at the table.
Making Cheese-Stuffed Buñuelos is a fun and rewarding process, perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions. The ingredients are simple, yet the flavor is extraordinary. Once you master this recipe, you can experiment by adding different types of cheese or herbs to customize the filling. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them alone, these buñuelos are a delightful addition to any meal.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6 people)
- 2 cups of pre-cooked corn flour (masarepa)
- 1 cup of grated queso blanco or mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 egg
- Oil for frying
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pre-cooked corn flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to guarantee the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Slowly add the milk and water while mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Add the grated cheese into the dough mixture. Knead the dough gently until the cheese is well incorporated. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky; if it’s too dry, add a little more water.
- Shape the Buñuelos: Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Make an indentation in the center of each ball and place a small piece of cheese (if you want an extra cheesy center) in the indentation. Pinch the dough closed around the cheese to confirm it’s fully enclosed.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat about 2-3 inches of oil over medium heat. You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of dough into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
- Fry the Buñuelos: Carefully drop the shaped buñuelos into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes or until they’re golden brown and puffed up. Turn them occasionally to confirm even cooking.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the buñuelos from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm, ideally with a side of guava paste or a spicy sauce for dipping.
Extra Tips
For the best flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses, like queso fresco and mozzarella, for a more complex taste. Confirm that the oil is at the correct temperature; too hot will burn the outside while leaving the inside raw, and too low will make the buñuelos greasy. To keep them warm and crispy, place them on a wire rack instead of paper towels after frying. Enjoy your Cheese-Stuffed Buñuelos fresh for the ultimate experience!
Sweet Buñuelos With Arequipe

Sweet buñuelos are a beloved traditional Colombian treat that can be found at many festive gatherings and celebrations. These delightful, round treats have a crispy exterior and a soft, sweet interior, often enjoyed as a dessert or snack. The addition of arequipe, a rich caramel-like spread made from condensed milk, takes these buñuelos to another level, offering a luscious filling that complements their texture perfectly.
Making sweet buñuelos with arequipe is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. With just a few pantry staples, you can create these delightful bites that will impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these buñuelos are certain to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- 2 cups of corn flour (masarepa)
- 1 cup of grated cheese (preferably a Colombian cheese like queso fresco)
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- Arequipe (to fill the buñuelos)
- Oil (for frying)
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn flour, grated cheese, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to guarantee the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the melted butter and milk into the dry mixture. Stir until the mixture forms a dough that’s moist but not sticky. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more milk until the desired consistency is reached.
- Shape the buñuelos: Take a small portion of the dough (about the size of a golf ball) and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a teaspoon of arequipe in the center and carefully fold the dough over to seal it, rolling it back into a ball shape. Repeat this process with the remaining dough.
- Heat the oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat enough oil to submerge the buñuelos (about 2-3 inches deep) over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
- Fry the buñuelos: Gently place the buñuelos in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn them as needed.
- Drain and serve: Once cooked, remove the buñuelos from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve them warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of crispy dough and sweet arequipe filling!
Extra Tips
When making sweet buñuelos, verify that the oil is at the right temperature; too hot can cause them to burn on the outside while remaining raw on the inside.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as chocolate or fruit preserves, for a twist on the classic recipe. Enjoy your buñuelos fresh out of the fryer for the best texture and flavor!
Buñuelos With Guava Paste

Buñuelos Colombianos are a beloved traditional Colombian treat, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. These delicious cheese fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often enjoyed with a sweet accompaniment. In this recipe, we’ll elevate the classic buñuelo by incorporating guava paste, which adds a delightful tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory cheese flavor. This dish is a perfect representation of the rich culinary heritage of Colombia, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore Latin American cuisine.
Making buñuelos with guava paste isn’t only easy but also a fun activity to share with family and friends. The dough comes together quickly, and frying them creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. As they cook, the outer layer becomes golden and crisp, while the inside remains fluffy and cheesy, with pockets of gooey guava paste that melt into the dough. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6 People):
- 2 cups of arepa flour (masarepa)
- 1 cup of crumbled queso blanco (or a similar cheese)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup of guava paste, cut into small cubes
- Vegetable oil for frying
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the arepa flour, crumbled queso blanco, baking powder, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients together until well combined. This guarantees that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until fully blended. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead gently until the dough is smooth, taking care not to overwork it.
- Incorporate the Guava Paste: Take small portions of the dough and flatten them in your palm. Place a cube of guava paste in the center and fold the dough over to encase the paste completely. Roll it between your hands to form a ball, making sure there are no cracks. Repeat this process for the remaining dough.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into it; if it bubbles and rises to the surface, the oil is hot enough for frying.
- Fry the Buñuelos: Carefully add the buñuelos to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes or until they turn golden brown, turning occasionally for even cooking. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the buñuelos cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, and you can sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for added sweetness if desired.
Extra Tips:
When making buñuelos, always verify that the oil is at the right temperature to prevent them from absorbing too much oil. If the oil is too hot, they may burn before cooking through, while too cool oil will result in greasy buñuelos.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese and fillings to suit your taste. Enjoy your buñuelos with a hot cup of chocolate or coffee for a truly authentic Colombian experience!
Savory Buñuelos With Chorizo

Savory buñuelos with chorizo are a delightful Colombian treat that combines the crispy exterior of traditional buñuelos with the bold flavors of spiced sausage. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these buñuelos aren’t only easy to make but also an impressive addition to any gathering.
The combination of cheese and chorizo creates a savory filling that pairs wonderfully with the dough’s light and fluffy texture. These buñuelos are best served warm, allowing the cheese to melt slightly and enhance the overall flavor. The contrast between the crunchy outside and the savory filling makes each bite a delicious experience.
Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a unique snack, these savory buñuelos are bound to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup of white corn flour (masarepa)
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1 cup of chorizo, cooked and crumbled
- Oil for frying
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the white corn flour, baking powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix well to guarantee the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, and egg until well combined. Gradually pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring with a spoon until a dough begins to form.
- Incorporate the Cheese and Chorizo: Once the dough starts to come together, fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled chorizo. Knead gently until the cheese and chorizo are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape the Buñuelos: With your hands, take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball about the size of a golf ball. Repeat this process until all the dough is shaped into balls.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat enough oil to submerge the buñuelos (about 2-3 inches deep) over medium heat. The oil is ready for frying when it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Buñuelos: Carefully place 3-4 buñuelos in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and puffed up. Use a slotted spoon to turn them occasionally for even cooking.
- Drain and Serve: Once golden brown, remove the buñuelos from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Extra Tips:
When making savory buñuelos with chorizo, consider using a high-quality chorizo for the best flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, opt for a fresh chorizo instead of a spicy one.
Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as queso blanco or even a mix of cheeses, to customize the flavor profile. Make sure to keep the buñuelos warm in a low oven if you’re making them in batches, so they stay crispy until it’s time to serve.
Mini Buñuelos for Parties

Buñuelos are a beloved Colombian treat, often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings. These delightful, crispy cheese balls are a perfect addition to any party table, offering a unique blend of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.
Their light and airy quality, paired with the savory notes of cheese, makes them an irresistible snack for both kids and adults alike. Making mini buñuelos is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. With their golden-brown exterior and soft, cheesy interior, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Follow this recipe to create a batch of mini buñuelos that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6 people):
- 1 cup of cornstarch
- 1/2 cup of grated cheese (preferably queso fresco or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of sugar
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, grated cheese, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mix these dry ingredients well to guarantee even distribution.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be pliable and not too sticky.
- Shape the Buñuelos: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about one inch in diameter. This size is perfect for mini buñuelos that are easy to eat.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat about two inches of vegetable oil over medium heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is hot enough.
- Fry the Buñuelos: Carefully place the dough balls into the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and puffed up, turning occasionally to guarantee even cooking.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the buñuelos from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve them warm, and enjoy!
Extra Tips: To elevate your mini buñuelos, consider experimenting with different types of cheese for varied flavors. Additionally, serving them with a dipping sauce such as guava or arequipe can add a delicious twist.
Make sure to monitor the oil temperature closely to avoid burning the buñuelos; maintaining a steady medium heat is key to achieving that perfect golden color. Enjoy your mini buñuelos at your next party!
Coconut Buñuelos

Coconut Buñuelos are a delightful twist on the traditional Colombian buñuelos, incorporating the rich and tropical flavor of coconut into the dough. These golden-brown treats are light, airy, and slightly sweet, making them the perfect snack or dessert for any occasion.
Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a personal treat, these buñuelos are bound to please your taste buds and impress your family and friends.
To make Coconut Buñuelos, you’ll need a few key ingredients, including fresh coconut, cheese, and a touch of sugar. The combination of these ingredients creates a unique texture and flavor that sets them apart from the classic recipe.
These buñuelos are typically enjoyed warm and can be dusted with powdered sugar or served with a side of sweet sauce for dipping. With just a bit of preparation, you can create a delicious batch of Coconut Buñuelos that everyone will love.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- 1 cup grated fresh coconut
- 1 cup queso blanco (or any soft white cheese)
- 1 cup tapioca flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Oil for frying
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Grate the fresh coconut and crumble the queso blanco into small pieces. This guarantees that your buñuelos will have an even distribution of flavors and textures.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the tapioca flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together until they’re well-combined, making sure that there are no lumps.
- Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: Add the grated coconut, queso blanco, and milk to the dry mixture. Using your hands or a wooden spoon, knead the mixture until it forms a soft, pliable dough. If the dough feels too dry, you can add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the right consistency.
- Shape the Buñuelos: Once the dough is ready, take a small portion (about the size of a golf ball) and roll it between your palms to form a ball. Repeat this process until all the dough is shaped into balls.
- Heat the Oil: In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat enough oil to cover the buñuelos (about 2-3 inches deep) over medium heat. The oil is ready for frying when it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C). You can test it by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; if it bubbles and rises to the surface, the oil is hot enough.
- Fry the Buñuelos: Carefully place a few buñuelos into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and puffed up. Turn them occasionally to guarantee even cooking.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the buñuelos from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve the buñuelos warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or alongside a sweet dipping sauce.
Extra Tips
When making Coconut Buñuelos, using fresh coconut will yield the best flavor, but if you can’t find it, you can use sweetened shredded coconut as a substitute.
Additionally, be mindful of the oil temperature; if it’s too hot, the buñuelos may brown too quickly without cooking through, while too low of a temperature can result in greasy buñuelos.
Finally, feel free to experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla to the dough for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious Coconut Buñuelos!
Chocolate-Dipped Buñuelos

Buñuelos are a beloved traditional Colombian treat that add a sweet touch to any occasion, especially during the festive season. These delightful fried dough balls are typically made with a mixture of cheese and flour, creating a crispy exterior with a soft, cheesy center.
To elevate this classic recipe, we’ll be making Chocolate-Dipped Buñuelos, which combine the rich flavor of chocolate with the warm, fluffy texture of buñuelos. This version is perfect for chocolate lovers and will surely impress your family and friends.
Making Chocolate-Dipped Buñuelos isn’t only a delightful experience but also a fun activity to do with loved ones. The process of frying the buñuelos and then dipping them into melted chocolate creates a delicious contrast that’s hard to resist.
Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a special dessert, these sweet treats are a unique twist on the traditional buñuelo that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
- 1 cup of grated white cheese (such as queso fresco)
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 large egg
- Oil for frying
- 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon of butter (optional for smooth chocolate)
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cheese, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Create a well in the center and add the milk and egg. Stir the mixture until a soft dough forms, making sure not to over-mix.
- Shape the Buñuelos: Once the dough has formed, take small portions and roll them into balls about the size of a golf ball. Confirm they’re uniform in size for even cooking. Place the shaped buñuelos on a floured surface and cover them with a clean cloth to prevent them from drying out.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or a pot, heat enough oil over medium heat for deep frying. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it bubbles and rises to the surface, the oil is hot enough.
- Fry the Buñuelos: Carefully add the buñuelos to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and puffed up. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Melt the Chocolate: While the buñuelos are cooling, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler. If desired, add a tablespoon of butter to the chocolate for a smoother texture. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and glossy.
- Dip the Buñuelos: Once the buñuelos have cooled slightly, dip the tops of each buñuelo into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chocolate-dipped buñuelos on a parchment-lined tray. Let the chocolate set before serving.
Extra Tips: When making Chocolate-Dipped Buñuelos, confirm that the oil is at the right temperature to achieve the perfect crispy texture. If the oil is too hot, the outside will cook too quickly without the inside being fully cooked, while oil that isn’t hot enough will result in greasy buñuelos.
For a fun variation, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed nuts on top of the chocolate before it sets for an added crunch and flavor. Enjoy your delicious buñuelos as a sweet snack or dessert!
Buñuelos With Cinnamon Sugar

Buñuelos are a popular Colombian treat, particularly enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings. These delightful fried dough balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect snack or dessert. The addition of cinnamon sugar elevates their flavor, providing a warm, sweet, and aromatic touch that complements the buñuelos beautifully. This recipe will guide you through creating these delicious treats from scratch, guaranteeing that they turn out perfectly every time.
To achieve the ideal texture, the dough must be mixed properly and allowed to rest before frying. The key to perfect buñuelos lies in the right balance of ingredients and the frying temperature. With this recipe, you’ll learn how to make these delightful treats that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether served as a dessert or a snack, buñuelos with cinnamon sugar are sure to impress.
Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people)
- 1 cup of queso fresco, crumbled
- 1 cup of corn flour (masarepa)
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 egg
- Oil for frying
- 1/4 cup of sugar (for cinnamon sugar)
- 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon (for cinnamon sugar)
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled queso fresco, corn flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients well. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more corn flour as needed.
- Rest the Dough: Once the dough is formed, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This allows the ingredients to meld together and will help the buñuelos maintain their shape during frying.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, pour enough oil to submerge the buñuelos (about 2-3 inches deep). Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
- Shape the Buñuelos: Once the dough has rested, take small portions (about the size of a golf ball) and roll them into smooth balls. Make sure they’re compact and free of cracks, as this will prevent them from breaking apart during frying.
- Fry the Buñuelos: Carefully drop the formed buñuelos into the hot oil. Fry them in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are puffed up. Use a slotted spoon to gently turn them halfway through cooking.
- Drain and Coat: Once the buñuelos are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. In a separate bowl, combine the 1/4 cup of sugar and ground cinnamon. While the buñuelos are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they’re evenly coated.
Extra Tips
When making buñuelos, it’s crucial to maintain the right frying temperature to achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy. If the oil is too hot, the buñuelos will brown too quickly without cooking through; if it’s too cool, they’ll absorb too much oil.
Additionally, you can experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor twist; just confirm they’ve a similar texture to queso fresco. Enjoy your buñuelos fresh, as they’re best served warm!
Gluten-Free Buñuelos

Buñuelos are a beloved Colombian treat, often enjoyed during festive occasions and holidays. These delicious, crispy cheese balls are typically made with wheat flour, but this gluten-free version guarantees that everyone can enjoy them without compromising on flavor or texture.
Using a mix of gluten-free flour and cheese, these buñuelos are just as delightful as their traditional counterparts, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
To make gluten-free buñuelos, you’ll need to gather a few simple ingredients that are easy to find. The key is to use a combination of gluten-free flour and cheese, which gives these buñuelos their characteristic taste and texture. The result is a snack that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a favorite among both adults and children alike.
Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):
- 2 cups gluten-free flour (such as a blend of rice flour and tapioca starch)
- 1 cup grated cheese (queso blanco or mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- Oil for frying
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the dough mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mix them well to ascertain the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Incorporate the cheese: Add the grated cheese to the dry mixture and mix until the cheese is thoroughly coated with the flour mixture. This step helps to incorporate the cheese evenly throughout the dough for a consistent flavor.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. This mixture will help bind the dough together and create a smooth consistency.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually pour the egg and milk mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring with a spatula or your hands. Continue mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more gluten-free flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Shape the buñuelos: Once the dough is ready, take small portions and roll them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Make sure to keep your hands slightly dusted with gluten-free flour to prevent sticking.
- Heat the oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat enough oil over medium heat to submerge the buñuelos. You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
- Fry the buñuelos: Carefully add a few buñuelos at a time into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until they turn golden brown, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to turn them occasionally for even cooking.
- Drain and serve: Once they’re golden brown, remove the buñuelos from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm, and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or simply as they are!
Extra Tips: To guarantee your buñuelos come out perfectly, make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying. If it’s too hot, the outside will cook too quickly while the inside remains raw; if it’s not hot enough, the buñuelos will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors, and feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive twist!
Vegan Buñuelos

Buñuelos are a beloved Colombian treat, traditionally made with cheese, which gives them a delightful flavor and texture. However, for those following a vegan lifestyle or simply looking to reduce their dairy intake, a vegan version of this classic dish is just as delicious. In this recipe, we’ll be using plant-based ingredients to create light and fluffy buñuelos that are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy family breakfast.
These vegan buñuelos are made with a mixture of cassava flour and almond milk, providing a wonderful base for this fried delicacy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these delightful bites that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Serve them warm, dusted with powdered sugar or alongside a dipping sauce for a satisfying treat that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6 people)
- 2 cups cassava flour
- 1 cup almond milk (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Oil for frying (such as vegetable oil or coconut oil)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cassava flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they’re evenly mixed. This will help guarantee that the leavening agent works effectively when the dough is formed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the almond milk and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a dough starts to form. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too dry, you can add a little more almond milk, one tablespoon at a time.
- Knead the Dough: Once the dough is formed, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for a minute or two until it becomes smooth and pliable. Avoid over-kneading, as this can result in tough buñuelos.
- Shape the Buñuelos: Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Roll each piece in your hands to create a smooth ball. Make sure they’re uniform in size for even cooking.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
- Fry the Buñuelos: Carefully add the buñuelos to the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re golden brown all over, turning them occasionally for even cooking.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the buñuelos from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Extra Tips
For the best results, verify your oil is at the right temperature before frying; too hot can lead to burnt buñuelos while too cool will make them greasy.
Additionally, you can experiment with adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an extra flavor boost. If you want to make them a bit sweeter, consider drizzling a bit of maple syrup or agave nectar over the buñuelos before serving.
Enjoy your vegan buñuelos warm for the best texture and taste!

