Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites Recipe

If you’re a fan of that perfect crunchy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside treat, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites Recipe. I absolutely love how these little bites capture all the magic of classic churros but in a fun, bite-sized form that’s perfect for snacking or sharing. And trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making them again and again—it’s just that good!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses basic pantry staples that come together beautifully. The combo of butter and water creates the perfect dough base, while cinnamon sugar adds just the right touch of sweetness and spice.

• Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness—plus, it melts evenly for a smooth dough.
• Water: The base liquid to steam-cook the flour and create the dough’s structure.
• Granulated sugar: One tablespoon goes into the dough, but a half cup mixed with cinnamon is what makes these bites oh-so addictive.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance flavor.
• All-purpose flour: The main ingredient that turns the buttery water mix into a soft dough.
• Large egg: Helps bind everything and adds richness.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle depth and warmth to the dough.
• Vegetable oil: For frying—choose an oil with a high smoke point so it doesn’t burn.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice mixed with sugar for that signature churro coating.

Variations

I love that this Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites Recipe is totally customizable depending on what mood I’m in or what I have on hand. Play around with it—you’ll find little tweaks can make it feel new every time!

• Chocolate Dipped: My kids adore when we dip these bites into melted chocolate or hot fudge; it’s like churro meets dessert fondue.
• Spicy Twist: Adding a pinch of cayenne to the cinnamon sugar gives a surprising kick that adults love.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend—just note the dough texture might be a bit different but still delicious.
• Serving with Dulce de Leche: Sprinkling bites with just a hint of sea salt and serving alongside dulce de leche is my special treat when guests come over.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites Recipe

Step 1: Heating the Oil Just Right

Start by heating about 1½ to 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot over medium-high heat. I use a candy thermometer for this because maintaining the right temperature (around 360°F) is key to crispy, golden churro bites without greasiness. If you don’t have a thermometer, dip a small piece of dough in the oil—if it sizzles and rises immediately, you’re good to go. Just watch closely because hotter oil cooks faster but risks burning!

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the oil heats up, whisk together your half cup of granulated sugar and the ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This mix is what gives you that classic churro zing and makes every bite irresistible. Set it aside so it’s ready once the churro bites are fried.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

Next up, let’s make that dreamy dough. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, water, sugar, and a pinch of salt; bring this to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, dump in the flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon over low heat until the dough forms a ball. Don’t worry if it looks a bit lumpy or if some flour isn’t fully incorporated yet—that’s totally normal. Remove from heat and let it cool for about five minutes before the next step.

Step 4: Adding Egg and Vanilla

Transfer the dough to your stand mixer bowl (or a large bowl if you’re using a handheld mixer). Quickly add the egg and vanilla, then beat on medium-high for about 30 seconds to fully blend everything together. You want to be quick here so the warm dough doesn’t cook the egg into scrambled eggs—this ensures a smooth, cohesive dough that’s perfect for piping.

Step 5: Pipe and Fry the Bites

Fill a disposable piping bag fitted with a large open star tip with the dough. Carefully pipe the dough straight into the hot oil, snipping off 1 to 1½ inch pieces with kitchen scissors right into the oil. I usually fry 6 to 8 bites at a time so they have room to crisp evenly. Turn them gently with a slotted spoon for about 90 seconds to 2 minutes or until a gorgeous golden brown. Drain on paper towels and immediately toss in the cinnamon sugar coating while still warm.

Step 6: Repeat and Enjoy!

Keep repeating the frying and coating process with the remaining dough. These churro bites are simply best the same day when they’re fresh and crispy, but if you stash some away in a paper bag overnight, they still hold up decently well for a next-day treat.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with just the cinnamon sugar coating, but sometimes I love sprinkling a little powdered sugar on top for an extra festive touch. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle some warm caramel or a dusting of cocoa powder to elevate the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

My go-to side is a small bowl of dulce de leche or chocolate sauce for dipping—makes for a fun interactive dessert. For brunch gatherings, pairing them with fresh fruit like berries or a side of whipped cream makes a nice balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like arranging cinnamon sugar churro bites in a festive serving cone or in mini cupcake liners with dipping sauces on the side—instant crowd-pleasers! One time I even served them stacked like little churro towers, which was a hit, especially with kids.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them at room temperature in a paper bag—not plastic—so they don’t get soggy. They are best eaten within a day for maximum crispness, but a paper bag helps maintain some texture.

Freezing

I’ve frozen cooked churro bites before—lay them flat on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. This way, they keep well for up to a month, although they won’t be as crispy as fresh.

Reheating

To reheat frozen churro bites, I pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back some crunch without drying them out. Avoid microwaving because it tends to make them soft and chewy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Working on this Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites Recipe has been such a joy in my kitchen. I remember the first time I made them—my family was hooked instantly, and we had to make a second batch in no time! These little treats are not only fun to make but also bring a bit of festive warmth to any day. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or indulging solo, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this recipe a try. You’ll soon discover why these churro bites quickly became my all-time favorite snack to whip up.

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