Churros Poppers

Churros Poppers are bite-sized treats packed with crispy fried dough, a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, and a delightful crunch in every bite. These mini churros are quick to make and the perfect dessert for satisfying your sweet tooth in no time. Whether served plain or with a decadent dipping sauce, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Churros Poppers are a fun and easy twist on traditional churros. The bite-sized poppers are perfectly fried, crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside. Coated in cinnamon sugar, these treats are irresistible on their own, but you can also dip them in chocolate, caramel, or dulce de leche for an extra indulgence. With simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, this recipe offers a delicious, quick solution to satisfy your dessert cravings without the need for a deep fryer.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 cup water

• 2 ½ tablespoons sugar

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• Oil for frying

Directions

1. In a medium bowl or brown paper bag, combine the ½ cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Set aside for later.

2. Heat oil in a deep fryer to 375°F, making sure there is about 2-½ inches of oil in the fryer.

3. While the oil is heating, combine water, 2-½ tablespoons sugar, salt, and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat.

4. Add the flour to the saucepan and stir until the mixture forms a dough ball. Let the dough cool slightly so it is safe to handle.

5. Once cool enough to touch, scoop and gently roll the dough into balls about the size of walnuts.

6. Carefully drop 3-4 dough balls at a time into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the poppers from the oil and immediately toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

7. Repeat the process with the remaining dough balls.

8. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 15 poppers

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Dip: Melt some chocolate or use Nutella to dip your churros poppers in for a richer experience.

• Caramel Sauce: Pair with homemade or store-bought caramel for a sweet, gooey finish.

• Dulce de Leche: For a Latin twist, serve with a side of dulce de leche for dipping.

• Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon-sugar ratio to your personal taste; you can even add a dash of nutmeg for a unique flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Churros Poppers are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of oil for frying churros poppers?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil for frying, as long as it has a high smoke point.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before frying. Make sure the dough is covered tightly to prevent it from drying out.

How can I make the cinnamon-sugar coating stick better?

To help the cinnamon-sugar mixture stick better, make sure to toss the poppers immediately after frying while they are still hot. The heat from the poppers will help the sugar adhere.

Can I bake churros poppers instead of frying them?

While frying gives the churros poppers their signature crispy texture, you can bake them at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown, for a lighter alternative.

How do I know when the oil is the right temperature?

To test if the oil is ready for frying, drop a small amount of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is hot enough for frying.

Can I use a different type of flour?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, but you could try using a gluten-free flour blend if you prefer a gluten-free version.

How do I prevent churros poppers from being greasy?

Be sure not to overcrowd the fryer, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy churros. Fry in small batches for the best results.

Can I make churros poppers in advance?

It’s best to fry them fresh, but you can prepare the dough ahead of time and fry them when ready to serve.

Can I use a regular pot instead of a deep fryer?

Yes, you can use a heavy-duty pot to fry the churros poppers. Just be sure to monitor the temperature carefully with a thermometer.

Are churros poppers suitable for kids?

Absolutely! These mini churros are a great treat for kids, and they’re much easier to handle than traditional long churros. Just be mindful of the hot oil during the frying process.

Conclusion

Churros Poppers are a simple, delicious dessert that brings the classic churro flavor into a bite-sized form. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a sweet snack, these poppers are sure to please. The recipe is quick, easy, and customizable with your favorite dipping sauces, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy these crispy, cinnamon-sugary delights with friends and family, and watch them disappear in no time!