Churros

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Churros are a beloved fried pastry with a crispy golden exterior and soft, fluffy center, rolled in cinnamon sugar for an irresistible treat. Perfect for dipping in chocolate sauce or enjoying on their own, these classic Spanish and Mexican snacks are surprisingly easy to make at home with just a few pantry staples.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

water
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
salt
all-purpose flour
eggs
vanilla extract
vegetable oil (for frying)
cinnamon sugar (for coating)

Optional dipping sauce:
semi-sweet chocolate
heavy cream
butter
vanilla extract

directions

In a saucepan, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

Reduce heat and stir in flour all at once. Mix until a dough forms and pulls away from the sides.

Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.

Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.

Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).

Pipe 4–6 inch strips of dough directly into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.

Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Immediately roll warm churros in cinnamon sugar.

Serve hot, optionally with chocolate dipping sauce.

For the chocolate sauce: Heat heavy cream until steaming, then pour over chopped chocolate. Add butter and vanilla, stir until smooth.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–16 churros.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add orange or lemon zest to the dough for a citrus twist.
Stuff churros with dulce de leche or Nutella.
Dust with powdered sugar instead of cinnamon sugar.
Use brown sugar for a deeper caramel note in the dough.

storage/reheating

Best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Store leftover churros in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warm and crisp.
Do not freeze after frying, but dough can be frozen before frying.

FAQs

Can I make churros without a piping bag?
Yes, use a plastic bag with a snipped corner, though they may not have the classic ridges.

Why is my dough greasy or raw inside?
Oil may be too cool or churros too thick—fry at 350°F in smaller batches.

Can I bake churros instead of frying?
Yes, but they’ll be less crisp. Bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, then broil briefly.

Do I need to use eggs?
Yes, they give the churros their puff and texture.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is best for flavor, but margarine will work.

What oil is best for frying?
Use vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for neutral flavor and high smoke point.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

What can I dip churros in?
Chocolate sauce, dulce de leche, caramel, or fruit sauces are all great choices.

How do I keep churros warm?
Place in a warm oven (200°F) while frying batches.

Can I flavor the cinnamon sugar?
Yes, add a pinch of nutmeg, clove, or cardamom for extra warmth.

Conclusion

Churros are a sweet, crispy delight that’s easy to recreate at home. Whether served with a rich chocolate dip or enjoyed straight from the sugar bowl, these golden pastries deliver indulgent joy in every bite—perfect for sharing or savoring all to yourself.

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