Classic Churros Recipe: Crispy, Sweet Spanish Snacks

Churros are a beloved Spanish treat that have become popular worldwide for their crispy exterior, soft interior, and delightful coating of sugar. Often enjoyed with a cup of hot chocolate for dipping, churros are an indulgent snack or dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these delicious fried treats.

Ingredients

For the Churros:

• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Coating:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

For Dipping (Optional):

• Melted chocolate or hot chocolate for dipping

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Churro Dough

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the water, sugar, salt, and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture begins to boil.
2. Add the Flour: Reduce heat to low, then add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
3. Cool the Dough: Remove the pan from the heat and let the dough cool for about 5 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the cooled dough. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and the egg is fully incorporated. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 2: Prepare for Frying

1. Heat the Oil: In a deep saucepan or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if possible to ensure the right temperature.
2. Prepare the Piping Bag: Spoon the churro dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. This tip gives churros their signature ridges.

Step 3: Pipe and Fry the Churros

1. Pipe the Dough: Carefully pipe 4-5 inch strips of dough directly into the hot oil, using scissors or a knife to cut the dough at the tip of the piping bag.
2. Fry the Churros: Fry a few churros at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the churros from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Coat the Churros in Sugar

1. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the sugar and cinnamon (if using).
2. Coat the Churros: While the churros are still warm, roll them in the sugar mixture until evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve with Chocolate Dip (Optional)

1. Prepare the Chocolate Dip: Melt chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler until smooth. If you prefer, serve with a thick hot chocolate.
2. Serve: Place the churros on a serving plate, and serve with the chocolate dip on the side for dunking.

Tips for Perfect Churros

1. Control the Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at the right temperature is essential. If it’s too hot, the churros will brown quickly but remain raw inside; if too cool, they’ll absorb too much oil.
2. Rest the Dough: Allowing the dough to cool slightly before adding the egg prevents it from scrambling, ensuring a smooth dough.
3. Use a Star Piping Tip: A star tip creates ridges that help the churros cook evenly and absorb the sugar coating better.
4. Eat Fresh: Churros are best enjoyed fresh, as they tend to lose their crispiness over time.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve churros warm with a side of chocolate sauce, caramel, or even dulce de leche for dipping.
• For a unique twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the top or add a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftover churros, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat churros in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness.