Santa’s Sweet Buñuelos Bites

Santa’s Sweet Buñuelos Bites

These Santa’s Sweet Buñuelos Bites capture everything magical about the holidays in one warm, crispy, cinnamon-sugared treat. Inspired by classic buñuelos but made mini for easy snacking, they deliver that irresistible combination of crunch on the outside and tender softness within. Rolled immediately in sparkling cinnamon sugar, each bite glistens like freshly fallen snow — the kind Santa himself would happily pause his sleigh ride to enjoy.

The dough comes together quickly with pantry staples, forming a soft, smooth base that fries beautifully. As the little dough balls puff and turn golden in the hot oil, your kitchen fills with a festive aroma that hints at celebration and coziness. Once tossed in the warm cinnamon-sugar coating, the flavor becomes nostalgic, comforting, and just sweet enough to satisfy any dessert lover.

Perfect for holiday parties, cookie platters, or cozy nights by the fire, these mini buñuelos disappear as quickly as they’re made. They’re wonderfully snackable, easy to share, and even easier to customize with toppings or dips. A drizzle of honey or a side of warm chocolate sauce transforms them from delightful to unforgettable.

Whether tucked into treat boxes, set out for guests, or left for Santa himself, these sparkling bites bring a touch of wonder and warmth to every holiday moment.

Servings: About 24 bites
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter, softened
• 1/2–3/4 cup warm water
• Oil for frying

Sugar Coating:
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1–2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional for added sparkle)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the softened butter and warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 3–4 minutes, or until smooth and supple.
4. Cover the dough and let it rest for 10 minutes.
5. Pinch off small portions of dough and roll into mini bite-sized balls.
6. Heat oil in a pot over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the dough bites in batches, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp.
8. Drain briefly on paper towels.
9. While still warm, toss the bites generously in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.

Variations

• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the sugar coating for extra winter warmth.
• Roll the bites in a vanilla glaze for a doughnut-style finish.
• Fill with dulce de leche by piping into each bite after frying.
• Dust with cocoa powder mixed with sugar for a chocolate twist.

Tips

• Fry in small batches to maintain even oil temperature and consistent browning.
• If dough feels too dry, add warm water a tablespoon at a time.
• Coat the bites while warm so the cinnamon sugar adheres perfectly.
• Serve alongside warm chocolate sauce, cajeta, or honey for an extra-indulgent touch.