Churros recipe are one of those treats that instantly bring comfort and joy. Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in warm cinnamon sugar, they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. While often associated with street vendors and fairs, churros are surprisingly achievable at home when the technique is right.
This churros recipe focuses on texture and consistency. The dough comes together quickly, frying is controlled rather than rushed, and the finishing sugar sticks exactly as it should. With a few practical tips and a clear process, homemade churros can rival anything you’d find at a bakery or food stall.
What Makes a Great Churros Recipe?
Churros are deceptively simple, but small details matter.
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The dough should be smooth and pipeable, not sticky
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Oil temperature must stay steady for even frying
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Proper piping creates ridges that crisp beautifully
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Coating while warm ensures the sugar adheres evenly
When these elements come together, churros deliver that signature contrast: crisp exterior with a soft, airy center.
Equipment You’ll Need
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Medium saucepan
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Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
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Piping bag fitted with a large star tip
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Scissors or knife
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Deep, heavy-bottomed pan or deep fryer
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Thermometer (recommended)
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Slotted spoon or tongs
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Paper towels
Ingredients List
Churros Dough
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Water
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Unsalted butter
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Sugar
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Salt
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All-purpose flour
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Eggs
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Vanilla extract (optional)
For Frying
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Neutral oil (vegetable or canola)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
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Granulated sugar
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Ground cinnamon
Timing and Servings
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
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Servings: 20–24 churros
How to Make Churros Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar
In a shallow bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon until evenly combined. Set aside so it’s ready as soon as the churros come out of the oil.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a saucepan, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat and stir in the flour all at once. Mix until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Step 3: Add Eggs
Allow the dough to cool slightly, then add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The dough should become smooth, glossy, and thick enough to hold its shape when piped.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Heat oil in a deep pan to a steady frying temperature. Maintaining consistent heat is key to preventing greasy or undercooked churros.
Step 5: Pipe and Fry
Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe strips of dough directly into the hot oil, cutting them with scissors to the desired length. Fry until golden brown, turning occasionally for even cooking.
Step 6: Drain and Coat
Remove churros with a slotted spoon and drain briefly on paper towels. While still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Practical Tips for Perfect Churros
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Use a star-shaped piping tip to create crisp ridges
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Don’t overcrowd the pan, which lowers oil temperature
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Keep oil temperature consistent throughout frying
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Coat churros while hot for best sugar adhesion
These details make the difference between average and excellent results.
Common Churros Variations
Filled Churros
Pipe a small hole and fill with chocolate, caramel, or vanilla cream.
Chocolate-Dipped Churros
Dip one end into melted chocolate for added richness.
Baked Churros
A lighter option, though the texture is less traditional.
Savory Churros
Reduce sugar in the dough and serve with cheese or dips.
Serving Suggestions
Churros are best served fresh and warm, paired with:
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Thick hot chocolate
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Chocolate or caramel sauce
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Coffee or espresso
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Fresh fruit on the side
They work well as a dessert, snack, or even a brunch treat.
Nutritional Facts (Approximate per Serving)
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Calories: 160
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Protein: 2 g
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Carbohydrates: 18 g
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Fat: 9 g
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Fiber: 1 g
As with most fried treats, moderation keeps them enjoyable.
Storage and Reheating Tips
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Best enjoyed the same day
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Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day
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Reheat briefly in the oven to restore crispness
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Avoid microwaving, which softens the exterior
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Adding eggs to hot dough, which can scramble them
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Frying at too low a temperature
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Skipping the star tip
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Letting churros cool before coating
Avoiding these ensures consistent texture and flavor.
Dessert lovers may also appreciate No-Bake Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares, Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies, or Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake.
Churros Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a shallow bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon until evenly combined. Set aside so it’s ready as soon as the churros come out of the oil.
- In a saucepan, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat and stir in the flour all at once. Mix until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Allow the dough to cool slightly, then add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The dough should become smooth, glossy, and thick enough to hold its shape when piped.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to a steady frying temperature. Maintaining consistent heat is key to preventing greasy or undercooked churros.
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe strips of dough directly into the hot oil, cutting them with scissors to the desired length. Fry until golden brown, turning occasionally for even cooking.
- Remove churros with a slotted spoon and drain briefly on paper towels. While still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Conclusion
A good churros recipe relies on technique rather than complexity. With a smooth dough, steady oil temperature, and proper finishing, homemade churros deliver crisp edges, tender centers, and that unmistakable cinnamon-sugar finish. Whether served plain or with dipping sauces, churros are a timeless treat that always feels special when made fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make churros dough ahead of time?
It’s best used fresh, but it can be refrigerated briefly if needed.
2. Why are my churros greasy?
Oil temperature was likely too low during frying.
3. Can I bake churros instead of frying?
Yes, though the texture will be different from traditional churros.
4. What oil works best for frying churros?
Neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil are ideal.
5. Do I need a piping bag?
Yes. Proper piping creates the ridges that help churros crisp evenly.