Churro poppers bring all the fun of classic churros into bite-sized, easy-to-share treats. These golden, crispy delights are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the mess of traditional churros. We love how they combine that iconic cinnamon-sugar coating with a soft, doughy center that melts in your mouth.
Inspired by the beloved Spanish and Mexican dessert, churro poppers are a crowd-pleaser at parties or a cozy night in. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make at home with just a few ingredients. Whether you dip them in chocolate sauce or enjoy them plain, these poppers deliver the perfect balance of crunch and sweetness every time.
Ingredients
To make our delicious churro poppers, we carefully select each ingredient to achieve the perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, airy dough. Below is everything you need for the dough, frying process, coating, and dipping sauce.
For the Churro Dough
- 1 cup water, cold
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (plus more for frying)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Frying
- 4 cups vegetable oil, for deep frying (enough to submerge poppers)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Dipping Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
| Ingredient Category | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Churro Dough | Water, sugar, salt, vegetable oil, all-purpose flour, egg, vanilla extract |
| Frying | Vegetable oil for deep frying |
| Cinnamon Sugar Coating | Granulated sugar, ground cinnamon |
| Dipping Sauce | Heavy cream, semisweet chocolate, unsalted butter, vanilla extract |
Equipment Needed
To create perfect Churro Poppers, having the right equipment is essential for achieving that crispy exterior and tender inside. Below is a list of the key tools we recommend:
- Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer: For maintaining consistent oil temperature when frying.
- Candy or deep-fry thermometer: Ensures the oil stays at the ideal 350°F (175°C), crucial for evenly cooked poppers.
- Mixing bowls: For combining dough and separate ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula: To stir the hot mixture safely.
- Pastry bag with large star tip: Helps pipe the churro dough into uniform bite-sized poppers.
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer: For safely removing churro poppers from hot oil while draining excess grease.
- Baking sheet lined with paper towels: Absorbs excess oil after frying.
- Shallow bowls: For cinnamon sugar coating and dipping sauce preparation.
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer | Fry churro poppers at consistent temperature |
| Candy or deep-fry thermometer | Monitor oil temperature accurately |
| Mixing bowls | Combine and prepare churro dough |
| Wooden spoon or spatula | Stir hot dough mixture |
| Pastry bag with star tip | Pipe churro dough into bite-sized poppers |
| Slotted spoon or spider | Safely remove fried poppers from oil |
| Baking sheet with paper towels | Drain excess oil after frying |
| Shallow bowls | Coat poppers in cinnamon sugar and prepare dipping sauce |
Pro tip: Maintaining the correct oil temperature and evenly sized poppers ensures the perfect crunch without absorbing too much oil.
Having these tools ready streamlines our process and guarantees that each batch of Churro Poppers turns out irresistible every time.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Churro Poppers ahead of time allows us to enjoy these delightful treats with minimal effort when cravings strike. Follow these steps to ensure the best texture and flavor for your make-ahead churro poppers.
1. Prepare the Dough in Advance
- Mix the dough as directed, combining cold water, granulated sugar, salt, vegetable oil, all-purpose flour, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Transfer the dough to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Chilling the dough helps enhance the flavor and makes it easier to pipe when frying.
2. Fry Just Before Serving
- Heat the oil to the recommended temperature (about 350°F/175°C) using a candy or deep-fry thermometer.
- Pipe the churro dough directly into the hot oil and fry until golden brown.
- Frying ahead often results in soggy poppers, so for the crispiest texture, cook at the last minute.
3. Coat and Serve
- Immediately after frying, toss the poppers in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- If coating in advance, allow poppers to cool completely and store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Note: Coating ahead may lead to softer sugar layers.
4. Reheating Tips
| Method | Instructions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Bake poppers for 5–7 minutes. | Maintains crispiness well. |
| Air Fryer | Set to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 3–5 minutes. | Quick and effective reheating. |
| Microwave | Heat in 15-second intervals until warm. | May soften texture. |
5. Make-Ahead Dipping Sauce
- Prepare the chocolate dipping sauce using heavy cream, semisweet chocolate, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a microwave or over a double boiler before serving, stirring until smooth.
“For best results, the frying process should always be done fresh — this ensures our churro poppers stay crispy and delicious every time.”
By following these make-ahead tips, we can save time during gatherings while still serving fresh, crispy, and flavorful churro poppers.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create crispy churro poppers with a soft center and a perfectly sweet cinnamon coating. Each stage ensures our Churro Poppers Recipe delivers maximum flavor and texture.
Preparing the Churro Dough
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup cold water, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat immediately and stir in 1 cup all-purpose flour until the dough forms a ball.
- Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract vigorously until the dough becomes smooth and glossy.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to enhance flavor and ease piping.
Shaping the Churro Poppers
- Fit a large star tip to a pastry bag and fill it with the chilled churro dough.
- On a clean surface or baking sheet, pipe 1½-inch dough balls to shape the poppers uniformly.
- For consistent size use a measuring spoon or mark the surface to ensure each popper is equal.
- Keep the dough covered to prevent drying before frying.
Frying the Poppers
- Heat enough vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to maintain 350°F (175°C).
- Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature closely.
- Carefully drop 6 to 8 poppers into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding.
- Fry for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally until the poppers are golden brown and crisp.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove poppers and drain on a baking sheet lined with paper towels.
| Step | Oil Temperature | Fry Time | Quantity per Batch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Heat | 350°F (175°C) | – | – |
| Frying Poppers | 350°F (175°C) | 2-3 mins | 6-8 poppers |
Coating with Cinnamon Sugar
- Immediately after frying, toss the hot poppers in a shallow bowl containing 1/2 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- Use a spoon or tongs to ensure every surface is well coated.
- Transfer coated poppers to a clean plate for serving or keep warm in a low oven (200°F/90°C).
Preparing the Dipping Sauce
- Heat 1/2 cup heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it simmers.
- Remove from heat and stir in 4 ounces semisweet chocolate chopped into small pieces.
- Add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, stirring until smooth and glossy.
- Pour into a serving bowl and keep warm for dipping.
Tip: Prepare the dipping sauce in advance and reheat gently before serving to ensure a silky texture.
Each of these steps contributes to the perfect churro poppers experience, balancing crispness with sweet cinnamon and rich chocolate dips.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Churro Poppers, we recommend serving them warm and fresh. Here are some creative and delicious ways to present and enhance this delightful snack:
Classic Dipping Presentation
- Arrange the churro poppers on a plate or platter lined with parchment paper.
- Serve with a rich chocolate dipping sauce in a small bowl to the side for easy dunking.
- Optionally, add a second bowl of caramel sauce or dulce de leche for variety and extra indulgence.
Flavor Pairings to Elevate the Experience
Pair the poppers with flavored coffee or hot chocolate, complementing their crispy cinnamon sugar coating with warm, aromatic beverages.
Creative Party Ideas
- Churro Poppers Bar: Set up a DIY poppers station with various dipping sauces like:
- Dark Chocolate Ganache
- Cream Cheese Frosting
- Spiced Honey Drizzle
- Strawberry Coulis
| Dipping Sauce | Key Flavors | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Dark Chocolate Ganache | Bittersweet chocolate, cream | Keep warm in a small ramekin |
| Cream Cheese Frosting | Tangy, creamy | Chill before serving |
| Spiced Honey Drizzle | Cinnamon, nutmeg, honey | Drizzle over poppers or dip |
| Strawberry Coulis | Sweet, fruity | Serve chilled for contrast |
Garnish Ideas
Sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar over the plate or dust lightly with powdered sugar to add an elegant touch. Fresh mint leaves provide a pop of color and subtle freshness.
Storage and Reheating Suggestions
If you have leftovers, store the poppers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to regain their crunchy exterior and soft center.
“Serving churro poppers warm with a variety of dipping sauces transforms them from a simple snack into a crowd-pleasing dessert experience.“
Using these serving suggestions, we maximize the flavor and enjoyment of our Churro Poppers whether it’s for an intimate movie night or a festive party.
Conclusion
Churro poppers bring a fun twist to a classic dessert that everyone will love. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for sharing and enjoying without any fuss. Whether served with chocolate ganache or a creative dipping sauce, these treats add a special touch to any gathering or quiet night in.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making churro poppers at home is both rewarding and delicious. We’re confident that once you try this recipe, it’ll become a favorite go-to for satisfying sweet cravings quickly and easily. Let’s get cooking and enjoy every crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated bite together!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are churro poppers?
Churro poppers are bite-sized versions of classic churros with a crispy outside and soft, doughy inside. They are easy to share and less messy than traditional churros, making them perfect for parties or casual snacking.
What ingredients are needed to make churro poppers?
Key ingredients include cold water, granulated sugar, salt, vegetable oil, all-purpose flour, egg, and vanilla extract for the dough. For coating, cinnamon and granulated sugar are used. The dipping sauce typically includes heavy cream, semisweet chocolate, butter, and vanilla.
What equipment do I need to make churro poppers?
You’ll need a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, candy/deep-fry thermometer, mixing bowls, pastry bag with large star tip, slotted spoon, baking sheet with paper towels, and shallow bowls for coating and sauce.
How do I fry churro poppers correctly?
Maintain a consistent oil temperature (around 350°F), fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, and remove poppers when golden brown. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature for the best crispiness.
Can churro poppers be made ahead of time?
Yes, the dough and dipping sauce can be prepared in advance. Fry the poppers just before serving to maintain freshness and crispiness.
How should I serve churro poppers?
Serve warm with dipping sauces like chocolate ganache, cream cheese frosting, spiced honey, or strawberry coulis. Presentation with parchment paper, cinnamon sugar, and fresh mint leaves enhances the experience.
How do I store leftover churro poppers?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispy texture before serving.
Are churro poppers inspired by a specific cuisine?
Yes, they are inspired by Spanish and Mexican desserts, combining traditional churro flavors in a fun, bite-sized format.
What is the best way to coat churro poppers?
Immediately after frying, toss the hot poppers in a cinnamon sugar mixture to ensure an even, flavorful coating.
Can I customize the dipping sauce for churro poppers?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various sauces like caramel, fruit coulis, or flavored frostings to suit your taste.