Crispy Spanish Churros Recipe
Spanish · Desserts

Crispy Spanish Churros Recipe

Churros are a popular Spanish dessert made from fried dough pastry, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, typically coated with sugar and served with thick chocolate sauce.

Prep
20 min
Cook
20 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Medium

Method

1

Liquid Base

In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, salt, and butter, then heat over medium flame until the mixture comes to a gentle boil and the butter is fully melted.
2

Dough Formation

Reduce the heat and add flour all at once, stirring vigorously until the mixture forms a smooth dough that pulls away from the sides of the pan.
3

Egg Integration

Remove from heat and let the dough cool slightly, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough becomes smooth and pipeable.
4

Piping Bag

Stir in vanilla extract and transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped nozzle.
5

Frying Prep

Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat until hot enough for frying.
6

Star Piping

Pipe long strips of dough directly into the hot oil, cutting with scissors or a knife to desired lengths.

A professional churro press piping long ridges dough strips into a large copper pan of hot bubbling oil
7

Golden Crunch

Fry the churros until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning occasionally for even cooking.
8

Sugar Roll

Remove and drain on paper towels, then immediately roll them in sugar while still warm.

A close up shot of a perfectly fried sugar coated churro being dipped into a bowl of glossy thick dark chocolate sauce
9

Serve Hot

Serve hot with melted chocolate for dipping and enjoy this classic Spanish dessert.

A rustic Spanish breakfast scene with a pile of hot churros, cups of thick hot chocolate, and steaming coffee on a wooden table

Cook’s tips

  • Using a star-shaped nozzle is crucial; the ridges increase the surface area for maximum crispiness and allow the dough to expand without bursting.
  • Let the boiled flower mixture cool for a few minutes before adding eggs, or you might end up "scrambling" the eggs in the dough.
  • For the authentic Madrid experience, use a high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa) for the dipping sauce, thinned slightly with a splash of hot cream.

Recipe notes

Churros are a popular Spanish dessert made from fried dough pastry, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, typically coated with sugar and served with thick chocolate sauce.

Hosting a Spanish fiesta? These churros are the ultimate sweet finale following our Classic Spanish Omelette or as a festive companion to our Mexican Chicken Enchiladas!

Frequently asked questions

Can I bake these?

You can, but they won't be as light and crispy. If baking, brush with butter and bake at 200°C for 20 minutes, then toss in sugar.

Can I store the dough?

It is best to fry the dough immediately while it is still slightly warm and flexible for the best rise and texture.