Churros are a beloved treat known for their crispy exterior, soft and airy inside, and that perfect dusting of cinnamon sugar. This Best Churro Recipe will guide you through making these golden-fried delights at home with ease. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, churros are a crowd-pleaser whether served as a snack, dessert, or festive treat. What sets this recipe apart is the perfectly balanced dough that puffs up just right, the fragrant cinnamon sugar coating, and a luscious chocolate dipping sauce that complements every bite.

This recipe uses simple pantry staples and techniques that even novice cooks can master. The dough is cooked briefly on the stove before adding eggs, which gives churros their signature texture. Frying until golden and then coating them immediately in cinnamon sugar ensures maximum flavor and crunch. The homemade chocolate dipping sauce adds a rich, velvety contrast that elevates the experience. Whether you’re making these for a family gathering or a fun weekend indulgence, this recipe delivers authentic churros reminiscent of your favorite street food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Flavor and Texture – Crispy outside with a soft, airy center.

Simple Ingredients – Uses everyday pantry items without complicated steps.
Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Coating – Balanced sweetness and spice on every bite.
Homemade Chocolate Sauce – Smooth, rich, and easy to make.

Fun and Shareable – Great for parties, family treats, or festive occasions.

Ingredients

Water
Unsalted butter

Granulated sugar
Salt
All-purpose flour

Eggs
Vanilla extract
Vegetable oil (for frying)

Sugar (for coating)
Ground cinnamon (for coating and dipping sauce)
Chocolate chips

Heavy cream

Variations

Spiced Churros

Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves to the cinnamon sugar for extra warmth.

Filled Churros

After frying, inject dulce de leche, chocolate, or cream filling using a piping bag.

Vegan Version

Replace butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs or a vegan egg substitute.

Gluten-Free

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a safe alternative.

Savory Twist

Omit cinnamon sugar and sprinkle with parmesan and herbs for a savory snack.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

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

Step 2

Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in all the flour until the mixture forms a ball.

Step 3

Let the dough cool for about 5 minutes, then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth.

Step 4

Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 5

Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy pot to 375°F (190°C).

Step 6

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

Step 7

Pipe 4–6 inch strips of dough into the hot oil, cutting with scissors or a knife. Fry until golden brown and crisp, about 2–3 minutes per side.

Step 8

Remove churros with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 9

Mix sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Toss warm churros in the cinnamon sugar until fully coated.

Step 10

To make the chocolate dipping sauce, heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until simmering.

Step 11

Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth.

Step 12

Serve churros warm with chocolate sauce for dipping.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature for crispy churros.
Don’t overcrowd the frying pot; fry in batches to keep the oil temperature steady.
Pipe churros directly into the oil carefully to avoid splashes.

If dough is too stiff to pipe, add a teaspoon of water to loosen it slightly.
Toss churros in cinnamon sugar while still warm for the best coating adherence.

How to Serve

Serve churros warm immediately after frying for optimal crispiness. Pair with homemade chocolate sauce or dulce de leche for dipping. They’re perfect as a festive dessert, afternoon snack, or party treat. Add a dusting of powdered sugar or serve with fresh fruit for a decorative touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Churros are best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours.

Freezing

Freeze fried and cooled churros in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to crisp them back up.

Reheating

Reheat churros in the oven or toaster oven rather than the microwave to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I bake churros instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 425°F for 15–20 minutes, but frying produces a better crisp.

2. What’s the best flour for churros?

All-purpose flour works best for the right texture and consistency.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

It’s best to fry churros fresh, but dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours and warmed slightly before piping.

4. Why do my churros turn out greasy?

Oil temperature may be too low, causing the dough to absorb more oil. Keep it around 375°F.

5. Can I use a different oil for frying?

Yes, neutral oils with high smoke points like canola or peanut oil work well.

6. How do I keep churros crispy after frying?

Drain on paper towels and serve immediately. Reheat in the oven to regain crispness.

7. Can I make churros without eggs?

Eggs are important for texture, but vegan substitutes like flax eggs can be used.

8. How do I make the cinnamon sugar coating stick better?

Toss churros in the coating while still warm so it sticks better.

9. What else can I serve with churros?

Try caramel sauce, fruit compote, or whipped cream as alternative dips.

10. Can I add flavorings to the dough?

Yes, vanilla is classic, but almond extract or citrus zest can be added for a twist.

Conclusion

This Best Churro Recipe delivers golden, crispy, perfectly sweet treats with a rich cinnamon sugar coating and decadent chocolate dipping sauce. Made with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a delightful way to bring a taste of classic street food into your kitchen. Whether you enjoy them as a festive dessert or a special snack, these churros promise to impress with their authentic flavor and irresistible texture. Enjoy the warm, crunchy, and sweet goodness every time you make them.