Save These cinnamon sugar churro bites are a quick way to bring a bit of Spanish magic into your home kitchen. They satisfy that fresh bakery craving with their crisp exterior and pillowy center, all in one bite. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just because, these little treats never last long in my house.
The first time I made these, the cinnamon aroma filled the kitchen and everyone came running. They’re now the must-have treat when friends visit and always bring smiles, especially when dipped in warm chocolate.
Ingredients
- Water: brings moisture and ensures a tender dough use filtered water for best results
- Unsalted butter: adds richness and helps create the classic churro flavor look for creamy butter with a fresh dairy scent
- Granulated sugar: sweetens the dough and forms the backbone of that addictive coating choose fine granules for even mixing
- Salt: balances the sweetness and enhances flavor use kosher or sea salt for a clean finish
- All-purpose flour: gives the churro bites their structure and crispness choose unbleached flour for depth
- Eggs: bind everything together and make the interior custardy look for fresh large eggs with firm whites and bright yolks
- Ground cinnamon: provides that unmistakable warm spiced flavor fresh spice gives the most fragrant result
- Vegetable oil: ensures safe deep-frying with a neutral taste choose a high-heat oil labeled for frying
Instructions
- Make the Dough:
- Combine water butter sugar and salt in a medium saucepan Bring to a boil over medium heat while stirring constantly Making sure the sugar and butter fully dissolve prevents any gritty texture
- Cook the Flour:
- Lower the heat and add the flour all at once Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon for about two minutes Continue until a smooth and satiny dough forms and it pulls away from the edges This step encourages gluten development for structure
- Cool and Add Eggs:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat Allow the dough to cool for five minutes This prevents scrambling the eggs When the dough has cooled slightly beat in the eggs one at a time Beat well after each addition The result will be a thick glossy dough that holds its shape
- Pipe the Churro Bites:
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip This gives the churro bites their classic ridged look Pipe one-inch pieces directly over the hot oil Use scissors to neatly cut the dough at the tip
- Fry to Perfection:
- In a deep saucepan or fryer heat the oil to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Maintain this temperature for even frying Drop in six to eight bites at a time and fry until golden brown turning occasionally This usually takes two to three minutes per batch
- Drain and Coat:
- Remove the fried bites using a slotted spoon Let them drain briefly on paper towels immediately toss the warm churro bites in a bowl of cinnamon sugar coating Toss until each bite is generously covered this step is key for maximum flavor
- Serve Fresh:
- Pile the churro bites onto a serving platter Serve them immediately for the softest center and crispiest exterior
Save My favorite part is the cinnamon sugar itself Nothing beats the aroma that fills the kitchen as you toss the warm bites fresh from the fryer My kids love rolling the churros themselves and sneaking a few before they even hit the table
Storage Tips
Once cooled store any leftover churro bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days For best texture reheat them in a preheated oven at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit for five minutes This method revives that signature crispiness I do not recommend microwaving as they can turn soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
If you run out of butter swap for margarine or even coconut oil for a subtle nutty flavor Egg substitutes like flaxseed meal can work but result in slightly denser bites Gluten free all-purpose flour blends also adapt well though the texture will be a little softer
Serving Suggestions
Serve these churro bites with a homemade chocolate ganache or warm dulce de leche for dipping They are also delicious with fruit compote or simply enjoyed plain The bites are great for brunch dessert platters or school parties
Cultural and Historical Context
Traditional churros are a beloved street food in Spain often enjoyed with hot chocolate for breakfast or late-night snacks These smaller bites are an easy way to bring that timeless treat to casual gatherings and are just as fun to make as they are to eat
Seasonal Adaptations
Sprinkle pumpkin spice over the sugar mixture for a fall twist Add citrus zest to the dough for spring or summer freshness Infuse the sugar with a little vanilla bean for holiday celebrations
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can pipe and freeze the raw dough bites on a tray then transfer to a zip-top bag Once ready to eat fry directly from frozen adding an extra minute to the frying time The sugar coating can be added while still warm for effortless party prep
Save A friend once brought these churro bites to our potluck and every single one vanished within minutes Ever since my family always asks for double batches and we love making extra for neighbors
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you achieve a crispy texture?
Frying at 350°F ensures the bites cook quickly and evenly, resulting in a crunchy outer layer while keeping the inside soft.
- → Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, pipe onto a baking sheet, brush with melted butter, and bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes until golden.
- → Which dipping sauces pair best?
Warm chocolate sauce and dulce de leche make popular choices, adding rich sweetness to every bite.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness before serving.
- → Are churro bites suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this version uses eggs, butter, and flour—no meat ingredients, making it vegetarian-friendly.