Churros(Long Johns)
Crispy, golden churros with a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg, perfect as a sweet snack or dessert for sharing. Crispy on the outside, soft inside, irresistibly flavorful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour oil 1-inch deep into a 10-inch skillet.
- Heat the oil to 370°F (approximately 3-4 minutes). Bring water to a boil in a 2-quart saucepan.
- Add butter and salt to the boiling water. Heat until the butter is melted.
- Add all the flour at once; remove from heat.
- Beat until the mixture is smooth and has the consistency of mashed potatoes.
- Beat in one egg at a time until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture into a pastry bag fitted with a star tip.
- Squeeze directly into hot oil, making churros about 8 inches long.
- Cook 3 or 4 churros at a time until they are deep golden brown, turning occasionally.
- Drain the churros over the skillet, then on paper towels.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a candy thermometer to ensure your oil stays at 370°F for perfect frying. If you don't have a pastry bag, a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off works well. You can add a pinch of vanilla extract to the dough for extra flavor. For a sweeter touch, consider rolling your churros in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon, similar to how it's done with Meo'S Cinnamon Rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Churros are best enjoyed freshly fried, dusted with cinnamon sugar. Serve them with a side of melted chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping. They pair beautifully with coffee or hot chocolate, making them a delightful treat for brunch or dessert. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside Quick Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie Pops(Great For Kids!) for a mixed dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover churros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until they are warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Churros(Long Johns) contains roughly 216 calories, with 5g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 492mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
While all-purpose flour gives the best texture, you can try using gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute. However, the churros may have a slightly different texture. It's essential to check that the flour blend contains xanthan gum for the best results.
What should I do if my churros are not cooking evenly?
If your churros are browning unevenly, check the temperature of your oil with a thermometer. If it's too hot, they will cook too quickly on the outside but remain raw inside. If too cool, they’ll absorb excess oil. Adjust the heat to maintain a consistent 370°F for even cooking.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Before frying, allow it to come to room temperature and stir it briefly to restore the consistency. Fresh dough will yield the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).