Description
These gooey cinnamon sugar churro bites feature a perfect crispy exterior and a soft, molten center, made easily in a skillet without deep frying. A quick and kid-approved snack perfect for any time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (150g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g)
- 1/2 cup milk (120ml), whole or 2%
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28g), melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g) for coating
- About 1 cup vegetable oil (240ml) for shallow frying (canola or sunflower preferred)
Instructions
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1/4 cup sugar.
- Add wet ingredients and form dough: Pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until a sticky dough forms. Add a splash more milk if too dry.
- Heat the oil: Pour about 1 cup vegetable oil into a skillet and heat over medium heat to around 350°F (175°C). Test by dropping a small piece of dough; it should bubble and float immediately.
- Shape and fry the bites: Using two teaspoons, scoop small spoonfuls of dough and gently drop into hot oil. Fry 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, flipping carefully. Work in batches.
- Drain and coat in cinnamon sugar: Transfer bites to paper towels to drain excess oil. While warm, toss in a mixture of 1/2 cup sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon until well coated.
- Serve warm and enjoy: Serve immediately for best gooey center and crispy edges. Optional dips include chocolate sauce or dulce de leche.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature and crispiness. Use fresh ground cinnamon for best flavor. Drain bites well on paper towels before coating. Keep finished bites warm in a low oven if frying in batches. Optional add-ins include nutmeg or orange zest. For vegan or gluten-free versions, substitute ingredients accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 bites
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 80
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
Keywords: churro bites, cinnamon sugar, crispy snack, easy snack, skillet churros, quick dessert, kid-friendly snack