I’ve yet to meet anyone who can resist the allure of churros. These delightful treats, made from deep-fried dough and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar blend, are simply irresistible! The best churros are served fresh from the fryer, boasting a perfect combination of crispy exteriors and soft interiors. Interestingly enough, churros are often enjoyed as a breakfast item—now that’s a morning treat I could get behind!
Whenever I visit amusement parks, churros always make it onto my must-try list. I’ve even indulged in a few at Costco (yes, really!). However, the most memorable churros I’ve tasted were from street vendors in Playa del Carmen. They use impressive churro-making syringes to create their masterpieces! While I may not have one of those fancy tools at home, I do have a piping bag with a star tip that works wonders. Making these golden-brown delights at home is my way of bringing Mexico’s flavors into my kitchen—and trust me; I’m not complaining one bit!
Churro Recipe Inspired by Dorie Greenspan Serves 2-3
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (equivalent to half a stick), cut into eight pieces
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs* (at room temperature)
- Oil for deep frying
- Cinnamon-sugar for coating
Instructions:
-
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan (about 2 quarts), combine the milk, water, butter, and salt over medium heat until it reaches a rolling boil.
-
Once boiling vigorously, add all the flour at once and reduce heat to medium. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon without hesitation; this will help form your dough quickly.
-
Continue stirring for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until you notice a slight crust forming on the bottom of the pan—the dough should become smooth during this time.
-
Transfer your dough into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Add each egg one by one while mixing thoroughly after each addition; don’t worry if it looks separated initially—it will come together as you mix in more eggs.
-
Once all eggs are incorporated successfully, your dough should be thick and shiny—when lifted with your spatula or spoon it should fall back into the bowl like ribbons.
6. Spoon this delicious mixture into your piping bag fitted with a star tip.
-
Heat about an inch of oil in a deep cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). Carefully pipe strips of dough directly into hot oil and snip them off using kitchen scissors when they reach your desired length.
-
Fry each churro for about two minutes per side or until they turn golden brown before draining them on paper towels.
-
While still warm from frying, roll them generously in cinnamon-sugar for that perfect finishing touch!
Enjoy these homemade treats hot out of the fryer!
(*Note: Half an egg equals approximately 1½ tablespoons.)