Save These mini cinnamon sugar churro bites bring the festival treat straight to your kitchen. They come together fast with simple ingredients and require no deep fryer, making them a perfect snack for sharing or for weeknight dessert cravings.
The crispy outsides and fluffy centers dipped in cinnamon sugar are always a hit in my house. My sister called me just to get this recipe after tasting them last Thanksgiving, and now they are a must-have for family get-togethers.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: gives these bites structure and that classic chewy center. Look for fresh flour without any off smell for the best results
- Granulated sugar: balances sweetness and helps in the cinnamon coating. Choose organic sugar for a cleaner taste
- Baking powder: ensures a light puff and airy texture. Double-check freshness for best rise
- Ground cinnamon: provides warm spice and signature churro flavor. For intense aroma, try Vietnamese cinnamon
- Unsalted butter: brings richness and helps create crisp edges. Use high-quality European butter if available
- Whole milk: keeps things tender and moist. Full-fat milk creates the richest flavor
- Egg: binds it all together and adds some lift. Choose fresh eggs for easier mixing
- Pinch of salt: needed to keep the flavor balanced
- Neutral oil for frying: makes sure the bites stay crisp but light. Use canola or grapeseed for clean flavor
Instructions
- Make the Dough:
- Whisk together flour baking powder salt and half the cinnamon in a large bowl. In a separate dish melt butter and stir in sugar. Whisk in the egg and milk until smooth then mix the wet into the dry until you get a soft thick dough
- Shape the Bites:
- Using your hands pinch off small pieces of dough about the size of a marble and roll them gently. Place on a parchment-lined tray. Uniform size helps them cook evenly
- Heat the Oil:
- Fill a deep skillet with about one inch of oil. Heat over medium until a small piece of dough sizzles and floats in about thirty seconds
- Fry the Churro Bites:
- Working in batches slide the dough balls into the hot oil. Fry for one to two minutes per side until deep golden brown. Move the bites to a paper towel-lined tray to drain
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:
- Mix remaining sugar with the rest of the cinnamon in a wide bowl. Toss the warm churro bites in this mixture making sure every side is coated. This is what gives that signature crunch and flavor
- Serve Warm:
- Arrange churro bites on a platter. Serve straight away for maximum crunch or pair with chocolate dipping sauce if desired
Save Cinnamon is my favorite part of this recipe I adore its warm aroma as it fills the kitchen and reminds me of summer fairs The best memory was seeing kids eat them straight from the tray with sugar-dusted cheeks laughing and asking for more
Storage Tips
Let churro bites cool on a wire rack before storing. Keep in a tightly sealed container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees for five minutes to restore crispness.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap whole milk for plant-based milk like almond or oat for a dairy-free twist. Use coconut sugar instead of granulated for a more caramel flavor. Try pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon for a seasonal variation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve churro bites with a side of melted chocolate or dulce de leche. Pile in bowls for fun sharing at game night. Pair with fresh fruit and a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert platters.
Cultural Context
Churros have been enjoyed in Spain and Latin America for centuries often dipped in hot chocolate or coffee Traditionally fried long and slender this mini take lets you recreate the joy at home with less fuss
Seasonal Adaptations
Sprinkle bites with orange zest for a winter kick. Add a dash of nutmeg during the fall. Mix in mini chocolate chips for kids parties.
Success Stories
My neighbor made these for her son’s birthday and they disappeared in minutes She even brought the sugar bowl out for extra dipping and the kids loved customizing their bites Every party since they are always requested
Freezer Meal Conversion
Shape and freeze uncooked dough bites on a tray until solid then store in freezer bags. Fry straight from frozen just add a minute to cook time. Toss with cinnamon sugar while still hot for best sticking.
Save Serve immediately with your favorite dip or eat them straight from the platter while they are crispy and warm. Enjoy every sweet bite!
Cooking Guide
- → How do you achieve a crispy texture?
Frying the dough at the right temperature ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender.
- → Can I bake instead of fry?
Baking is possible, but frying gives the classic churro crunch. Oven baking may result in a softer texture.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Chocolate, caramel, and dulce de leche are popular choices. You can also try fruit sauces or whipped cream.
- → How do I make cinnamon sugar coating stick?
Coat the bites in cinnamon sugar while they are still warm to help the mixture adhere evenly and enhance flavor.
- → How should I serve these churro bites?
Serve fresh and warm for the best taste. Present them with dipping sauces for an interactive treat.