Best Churro Recipe

Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, churros are the ultimate fried pastry treat — and this recipe brings authentic, bakery-style churros straight to your home kitchen. Dusted in cinnamon sugar and perfect for dipping in chocolate sauce, caramel, or dulce de leche, these golden treats are a sweet tooth’s dream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This churro recipe is simple, foolproof, and yields results that rival anything you’d get from a fair or food truck. The dough comes together quickly on the stovetop, and the frying process gives you crisp, golden churros every time. Dip them, drizzle them, or eat them plain — they’re a nostalgic favorite that never goes out of style.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

For the churros:

• Water
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the cinnamon sugar coating:

• Granulated sugar
• Ground cinnamon

directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and stir in the flour all at once. Stir vigorously until a dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the pan (about 1 minute).
3. Remove from heat and let the dough cool for 5–7 minutes.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until smooth and glossy. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
6. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C).
7. Pipe 4–6 inch strips of dough directly into the oil, cutting with scissors. Fry 3–4 churros at a time to avoid overcrowding.
8. Fry until golden brown, turning occasionally, about 2–3 minutes per batch.
9. Remove and drain on paper towels, then immediately roll in cinnamon sugar mixture.
10. Serve warm with dipping sauces if desired.

Servings and timing

Makes 12–15 churros
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Fill them: Pipe dulce de leche, chocolate ganache, or pastry cream inside using a filling tip.
• Make mini churros: Cut the dough into shorter lengths for bite-sized snacks.
• Bake them: Pipe onto a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes. Not as crisp, but a lighter option.
• Add orange zest or nutmeg: For a flavor twist in the dough.
• Serve with dipping sauces: Try chocolate sauce, caramel, or a spicy Mexican hot chocolate dip.

storage/reheating

Churros are best served fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 1 day. Bring to room temperature before piping.

Why are my churros doughy inside?

The oil may be too hot. Keep the temperature around 350°F so they cook evenly.

Can I use a freezer bag instead of a piping bag?

Yes, but use a strong bag and cut a large enough hole to prevent bursting.

Do I need a thermometer for frying?

It helps a lot! Consistent oil temperature ensures even cooking and prevents greasy churros.

Can I freeze churros?

Yes, freeze piped (uncooked) dough on a tray, then store in bags. Fry from frozen, adding a bit of time.

What kind of oil is best?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil.

How do I get perfect ridges?

Use a large star piping tip — this also helps with even frying and more cinnamon sugar adherence.

Can I use this dough for other fried treats?

Yes, this is a pâte à choux dough, also used for cream puffs and eclairs when baked.

Are churros gluten-free?

Not this version — but you can try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I flavor the cinnamon sugar?

Absolutely — try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cayenne, or cardamom.

Conclusion

These churros are golden, crispy, and absolutely addictive — the perfect homemade treat to satisfy your sweet cravings. Whether you’re serving them at a party, making them for family movie night, or just treating yourself, this easy churro recipe is guaranteed to bring joy with every crunchy, sugary bite.

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