Churros

Cooking & Recipes | Spain

Nutrition information

% of daily allowance

Protein

3.5 oz

14 %

Fat

46 %

Sugar

2.5 oz

28 %

Carbohydrates

7.5 oz

25 %

Best Churro Recipe – Classic Spanish Treat

Looking to master the best churro recipe and recreate this classic Spanish treat at home? Churros, famous for their crispy exterior and soft, doughy interior, have been a favorite snack in Spain for centuries. Our detailed recipe will guide you through making these delicious, cinnamon-sugar-coated pastries, perfect for dessert or a sweet snack.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to baking, our step-by-step instructions will help you achieve the perfect churro every time. Bring the authentic taste of Spain into your kitchen with this best churro recipe and enjoy a simple yet satisfying culinary experience.

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cooking Time: 20 mins

Total: Approximately 45 minutes mins

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup water
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Chocolate Ganache Dip:

4 oz high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream

Instruction:

Preparation and Dough Creation:
- In a saucepan, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour while stirring vigorously until the mixture forms a smooth dough.
Incorporation of Eggs:
- Allow the dough to cool slightly.
- One at a time, add the eggs to the dough, beating vigorously after each addition until fully incorporated. The dough will become glossy and sticky.
Piping and Shaping:
- Transfer the dough to a pastry bag fitted with a star tip.
- Heat oil in a deep pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Pipe strips of dough directly into the hot oil, using scissors to cut them to your desired length. Fry until golden brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove churros from the oil and drain on a paper towel.
Cinnamon Sugar Adornment:
- In a shallow dish, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the coating.
- While the churros are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Decadent Chocolate Ganache:
- For the chocolate ganache, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just starts to simmer.
- Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Sensory Experience:
- Serve the freshly coated churros alongside the velvety chocolate ganache for dipping.

Discover more about the culinary heritage of Spain

Cultural and Historical Context

Looking for the best churro recipe? Churros, with their crispy exterior and soft, doughy interior, are a beloved treat originating from Spain. Historically, churros were enjoyed by Spanish shepherds, who would make the dough and fry it over an open fire in the mountains. The name “churro” is believed to be derived from the shape of the churra sheep’s horns, a breed native to Spain. This treat became a popular breakfast item across the Iberian Peninsula, often served with a rich, thick hot chocolate.

To delve deeper into Spain’s cultural diversity, you can explore our detailed Spain Cultural Diversity guide, which provides insights into the various influences that shape Spanish cuisine and traditions.

American Perspective

In the United States, churros have gained immense popularity, especially at fairs, theme parks, and street vendors. They are often coated with cinnamon sugar and served with a variety of dips, including chocolate, caramel, or even fruit sauces. While the American version tends to be sweeter and more varied in flavorings, the essence of this Spanish treat remains intact, celebrating its rich cultural roots.

For a broader understanding of Spain’s influence in America, our Spain Travel Guide offers an excellent overview of the country’s historical ties and their impact on culinary practices.

Regional Variations

Across Spain, churros can be found in different shapes and sizes. In Madrid, churros are typically long and thin, while in other regions like Andalusia, they are thicker and sometimes twisted into loops. Some regions even add fillings like dulce de leche or chocolate, adding a unique twist to the traditional recipe.

Discover more about regional culinary practices in Spain with our guide to Barcelona’s Gastronomy, highlighting the city’s rich culinary landscape.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing Tips

Pair churros with a cup of thick, hot chocolate for an authentic Spanish experience.
For a twist, serve churros with a side of dulce de leche or condensed milk for dipping.
Churros are also excellent when dusted with cinnamon sugar and served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Churros are more than just a tasty snack; they are a symbol of Spain’s rich culinary heritage. Whether enjoyed in the early morning hours with a hot cup of chocolate or as a sweet treat at the end of a meal, churros bring a little bit of Spanish warmth and tradition to every bite.