Sopaipillas

1 package activated dry yeast
1/4 cup lukewarm water (110 to 115 degrees)
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
1 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons sugar
3 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking powder
Vegetable oil for deep frying

Makes about 36 sopaipillas.
Add yeast to warm water, stir to dissolve and set aside. Bring milk to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat; remove from heat and add shortening, salt, and sugar; cool to lukewarm. Stir in yeast mixture. Sift flour and baking powder together over a large bowl. Pour liquid ingredients into the dry and work into a soft dough. Turn onto a floured board and knead well until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. Cover dough with a towel and let rest for 20 minutes. Heat vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over high heat until it reaches 400 degrees. Roll dough to a 1/4-inch thickness and cut into triangles or squares about 3 inches across. Fry in hot oil, 2 or 3 at a time, until browned on both sides. Remove from oil, drain on paper towels, and repeat with remaining dough.
. For dessert, sprinkle while still hot with cinnamon and sugar or serve with honey.