Classic Spanish Churros: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

1 cup water
2 1/2 tablespoons white sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 quarts oil for frying
1/2 cup white sugar, or to taste
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Steps and instructions

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine water, 2 1/2 tablespoons sugar, salt, and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. Bring to a boil and remove from heat. Stir in flour until mixture forms a ball.
Heat oil for frying in deep-fryer or deep skillet to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Pipe strips of dough into hot oil using a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip.
Fry until golden; drain on paper towels.
Combine 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon. Roll drained churros in cinnamon and sugar mixture.

Tools for making

Saucepan - Used to heat and combine the ingredients for the churro dough.
Deep-fryer or deep skillet - Used to fry the churros until golden.
Pastry bag - Fitted with a large star tip, used to pipe the churro dough into the hot oil.
Paper towels - Used to drain the fried churros and remove excess oil.

Recipe variations

Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough mixture for a hint of vanilla flavor.
Instead of rolling the churros in cinnamon and sugar, serve them with a side of chocolate ganache or caramel sauce for dipping.
Experiment with different coatings such as powdered sugar, cocoa powder, or a mixture of cinnamon and nutmeg.
For a savory twist, skip the sugar and cinnamon coating and sprinkle the churros with grated cheese or a blend of spices like paprika, cumin, and garlic powder.
Try using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour for a healthier or gluten-free version.
Instead of frying, bake the churros in the oven for a lighter alternative. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
Make filled churros by using a filling such as dulce de leche, chocolate, or fruit preserves. Simply pipe the filling into the center of the churros after frying.

Recipe overview

Get ready to create a classic Spanish delight, Churros. This recipe takes you through the steps to prepare crispy, golden churros that are soft and tender on the inside. Made with a handful of pantry essentials, and fried until golden, these churros are then coated with a blend of sugar and cinnamon for a sweet finishing touch. An excellent treat for a quiet afternoon or a festive gathering, they're easier to make than you might think. Expect to be taken on a culinary journey with this traditional recipe. Enjoy!

Common questions

Can I use any other type of oil for frying? - It is recommended to use vegetable oil for frying churros as it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, which works well for this recipe.
Can I use a different type of flour? - All-purpose flour works best for making churros. Using other types of flour may result in a different texture and consistency.
Can I bake the churros instead of frying them? - While traditional churros are fried, you can try baking them for a healthier alternative. However, the texture and taste may differ slightly.
How do I know if the oil is hot enough? - Use a candy thermometer to ensure the oil reaches a temperature of 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) before frying the churros.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? - It is recommended to make the churro dough just before frying for the best results. The dough may not hold its shape well if prepared in advance.

Serving dishes and utensils

Pastry Bag - A bag used for piping the churro dough into the hot oil.
Large Star Tip - A tip that fits onto the pastry bag and creates the signature ridged shape of the churros.
Deep-Fryer or Deep Skillet - A cooking tool used for frying the churros in oil.
Paper Towels - Used for draining the fried churros and removing excess oil.

Origin stories

Churros, those delightfully sweet, fried dough pastries dusted with sugar and often served with warm chocolate, have a history that's as rich and interesting as their taste. While widely associated with Spain, there are theories that suggest they were actually introduced to Europe by Portuguese sailors who had discovered a similar food on their travels to Ming Dynasty China. Back in Spain, these "Chinese doughnuts" were modified by adding the star-shaped design, which is not just for aesthetics but also ensures the churros cook evenly. Today, they are a popular treat at fairs and carnivals, breakfast staple in Spain and Latin America, and have captured the hearts of dessert lovers worldwide.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.