Best Ever Churro Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet delivers that classic churro flavor without needing any special equipment. The dough comes together in one pot, and the bite-sized pieces fry up in just minutes. The contrast of crunchy outside and soft inside makes them addicting, and the cinnamon sugar coating gives them that unmistakable churro magic. They’re great served as-is or with chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 cup water
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Directions

I start by combining water, butter, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it begins to boil, I reduce the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Then I add the flour all at once and stir continuously until a smooth dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the pan. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes. I remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before adding the eggs.

Next, I beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing until the dough becomes smooth and slightly sticky. Meanwhile, I heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat until hot enough for frying.

In a small bowl, I mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the coating. Once the oil is ready, I use a spoon or piping bag to drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the hot oil. I fry them for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and crispy.

After draining them on paper towels, I immediately toss the warm churro bites in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated. I serve them warm for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 servings. It takes 15 minutes to prep, 10 minutes to cook, and 25 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for extra warmth. I also love dipping the churro bites in melted chocolate, caramel sauce, or dulce de leche. For a fun twist, I’ll stuff them with Nutella or pipe them into longer sticks instead of bite-sized pieces.

Storage/Reheating

I enjoy these churro bites best fresh, but if I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. To reheat, I pop them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore their crispness. I avoid microwaving them since that can make them soft.

FAQs

Can I bake churro bites instead of frying them?

Yes, I can bake them at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, though they won’t be as crispy.

Can I use an air fryer?

Definitely, I air fry them at 375°F for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What oil is best for frying?

I prefer vegetable or canola oil because they have a neutral flavor and high smoke point.

How do I know when the oil is ready?

I drop a small piece of dough in—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the dough a few hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge.

Can I use a stand mixer?

Yes, a stand mixer makes it easier to beat in the eggs evenly.

How can I make the coating stick better?

I toss the churros in cinnamon sugar while they’re still hot and slightly oily.

Can I fill churro bites with something?

Yes, I use a piping bag to fill them with caramel, Nutella, or custard after frying.

Why are my churros oily?

The oil might not be hot enough—maintaining medium-high heat ensures they fry properly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I often double it for parties—it scales perfectly.

Conclusion

Best Ever Churro Bites are a simple yet show-stopping dessert I love making for any occasion. Crispy, golden, and coated in warm cinnamon sugar, they bring all the joy of classic churros in an easy bite-sized form. Whether I serve them at a gathering or just treat myself after dinner, they’re always a hit and gone within minutes.