Transform your kitchen into a cozy Mexican bakery with these irresistible homemade churro snacks. These golden-brown treats strike the perfect balance between crispy exterior and tender inside, all wrapped in that signature cinnamon-sugar coating that makes churros so beloved.
While traditional churros require deep frying and special piping equipment, this simplified version delivers all the authentic flavors in an approachable, home cook-friendly format that’s perfect for satisfying sudden sweet cravings or delighting unexpected guests.
Why You’ll Love This
- Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish
- Uses basic pantry ingredients you likely already have
- No special piping bags or deep fryer needed
- Perfect for both snacking and entertaining
- Kids can help roll the dough in cinnamon sugar
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Bring water and butter to a boil in a medium saucepan
- Add flour and salt, stirring vigorously until mixture forms a ball
- Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes
- Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated
- Heat oil to 375°F in a heavy pot
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into hot oil
- Fry until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side
- Mix cinnamon and sugar in a shallow dish
- Roll warm churros in cinnamon-sugar mixture
Tips & Variations
- Test oil temperature with a small piece of dough – it should bubble and rise immediately
- Make the dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 hours
- Add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract for extra flavor
- Try coating in cocoa powder and sugar for a chocolate version
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform portions
Serving Suggestions
Serve these churro bites warm with Mexican hot chocolate or dulce de leche for dipping. They also pair beautifully with coffee or vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert experience.
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh, within 2 hours of cooking
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours
- Reheat briefly in a 350°F oven to restore crispiness
FAQs
- Can I bake these instead of frying? While possible, baking won’t achieve the same crispy exterior. If baking, brush with melted butter and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Why did my churros deflate? This usually happens when the oil isn’t hot enough. Maintain oil temperature at 375°F for best results.
- Can I freeze the dough? Yes, freeze portioned dough on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw in refrigerator before frying.
- How do I know when they’re done? They should be golden brown and float to the surface when fully cooked.
Servings4
Prep15 min
Cook45 min
Calories—
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Vegetable oil for frying
Steps
- Bring water and butter to a boil in a medium saucepan
- Add flour and salt, stirring vigorously until mixture forms a ball
- Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes
- Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated
- Heat oil to 375°F in a heavy pot
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into hot oil
- Fry until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side
- Mix cinnamon and sugar in a shallow dish
- Roll warm churros in cinnamon-sugar mixture
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh, within 2 hours of cooking
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours
- Reheat briefly in a 350°F oven to restore crispiness
