How to Make Churros: Ingredients, Tips & Toppings

Craving a crispy, golden treat with a fluffy center and cinnamon sugar coating? Churros are the answer! Whether dipped in chocolate, filled with cream, or dusted in sugar, these fried delights are a favorite around the world.

What Are Churros?

Churros are deep-fried pastries made from choux-like dough, often piped into long ridges and fried until golden. They’re traditionally coated in cinnamon sugar and enjoyed hot, typically with a thick dipping chocolate.

Where Did Churros Originate?

Are churros Mexican? Many people think so—but the truth is more layered. While churros are hugely popular in Mexico, they are believed to have originated in Spain and Portugal, possibly inspired by a Chinese fried dough called “youtiao.” To dive deeper, check out our blog post:

Churros Ingredients: What’s in a Churro?

The traditional churro dough is simple. Here’s what you need:

Water
All-purpose flour
Butter
Sugar
Salt
Eggs (optional in some variations)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Cinnamon & sugar (for coating)

Modern versions may also include vanilla, milk, or even cream cheese for stuffed churros.

How to Make Churros at Home

Want to know how to make churros from scratch? It’s easier than it looks. Here's a quick step-by-step overview:

Step-by-Step Basics

Boil water with butter, sugar, and salt.
Stir in flour until a dough forms.
Let it cool slightly, then mix in eggs (if using).
Pipe the dough into hot oil using a star-tipped piping bag.
Fry until golden brown.
Roll in cinnamon sugar and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Churros

Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry in batches.
Use a star nozzle for the classic ridged shape.
Serve immediately for the best texture.

Flavor Variations: Beyond the Classic

Why stick with plain when you can explore creative churro ideas?

Churros and Chocolate

The classic combo. Serve churros with a thick Spanish-style hot chocolate or homemade chocolate ganache.

Oreo Churros

Crushed Oreo crumbs in the dough or coating turn this into a modern favorite, especially among kids.

Churro Cheesecake

Think layered dessert—churro dough as the crust, cheesecake filling, topped with cinnamon sugar.

Gluten-Free Churros

Swap out traditional flour for rice flour or a gluten-free blend for a treat everyone can enjoy.

Air Fryer Churros

A healthier twist! Pipe the dough onto parchment and air fry at 375°F until golden. Less oil, same satisfaction.

Churros Calories: What to Expect?

On average, a small homemade churro contains around 110–150 calories. Calories may vary depending on frying method, fillings, and dips. Air fryer churros are naturally lower in fat.

FAQ About Churros

Are churros Mexican?

Churros are popular in Mexico but originated in Europe. Mexican churros are typically filled or served with cajeta (caramel).

What are the ingredients in churros?

Flour, water, butter, sugar, salt, and sometimes eggs. Cinnamon sugar is used for coating.

Can I bake churros instead of frying?

Yes, but texture may differ. Frying gives churros their signature crisp.

Whether you're new to churros or looking to take your churro game to the next level, these ideas and tips will help you create something delicious. Don’t be afraid to experiment—churros are a blank canvas for flavor, fun, and festivity.