If you’ve ever craved the irresistible, crispy, and cinnamon-sugar coated delight of churros but follow a vegan lifestyle, you’re in for a treat! Vegan churros are a fantastic plant-based twist on the classic Spanish and Latin American street snack that anyone can enjoy.
Made without eggs or dairy, these churros maintain that perfect crunchy exterior and soft, airy inside. They’re ideal for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy weekend breakfast, a festive party snack, or a sweet ending to dinner.
In this recipe, I’ll guide you through making vegan churros from scratch with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. Plus, you’ll learn some handy tips to get the texture just right and variations to customize your churros.
So, let’s dive into this delicious adventure and bring a little joy to your kitchen with vegan churros!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Vegan churros capture all the magic of the traditional treat without compromising your dietary preferences. This recipe is:
- Easy to make: With basic pantry ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can whip up churros in no time.
- Oil-friendly: While fried, you can also bake or air-fry these for a healthier alternative.
- Crispy and fluffy: Achieves the perfect balance between crunchy outside and soft inside.
- Customizable: You can enjoy them with classic cinnamon sugar or dip them in vegan chocolate sauce or fruit preserves.
- Kid-friendly: The recipe is simple enough for family cooking time and loved by all ages.
Plus, they’re a wonderful introduction to vegan baking if you’re new to plant-based desserts. Ready to impress your friends and family with these golden, decadent delights?
Ingredients
- 1 cup water (240 ml)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (plus extra for frying)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (125 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Large pot or deep fryer for frying
- Pastry bag with a large star tip (or a sturdy zip-top bag with a corner snipped)
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Cooling rack or paper towels
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup water, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Add dry ingredients: Once boiling, remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder. Mix vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Cool and flavor: Let the dough cool for about 5 minutes, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This adds a lovely aroma and subtle sweetness to your churros.
- Heat the oil: In a large pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to submerge the churros but be cautious not to overfill your pot.
- Pipe the churros: Transfer the dough into a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip. Carefully pipe 4-6 inch strips of dough directly into the hot oil, using scissors or a knife to cut the dough as it exits the bag.
- Fry to golden perfection: Fry the churros in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pot to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain excess oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove churros from the oil and place them on a cooling rack or paper towels to drain.
- Cinnamon sugar coating: In a shallow bowl, mix 1/2 cup sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. While the churros are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly.
- Serve warm: Enjoy your vegan churros fresh with optional dipping sauces like vegan chocolate or caramel.
Tips & Variations
“For a lighter option, try baking your churros on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy but still delicious!”
- Oil choice: Use neutral oils like canola or sunflower for frying. Avoid olive oil as it has a low smoke point.
- Flour alternatives: Try half whole wheat flour or gluten-free blends for a different texture and flavor.
- Flavored sugar coatings: Mix cinnamon with powdered ginger or nutmeg for a spiced twist.
- Dipping sauces: Pair your churros with vegan chocolate ganache, fruit preserves, or a simple agave syrup drizzle.
- Make it savory: Skip the cinnamon sugar and dust churros with smoked paprika and salt for a unique snack.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (2 churros) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 |
Total Fat | 10g |
Saturated Fat | 1g |
Carbohydrates | 28g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sugar | 8g |
Protein | 2g |
Sodium | 150mg |
Serving Suggestions
Vegan churros are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm for the best experience and try these ideas to elevate your snacking:
- Dip churros in a warm vegan chocolate sauce made from melted dark chocolate and coconut milk.
- Pair with fresh berries or a fruit compote to add a refreshing contrast.
- Sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar on top just before serving for an extra sweet touch.
- Enjoy alongside a cup of rich, dairy-free hot chocolate or your favorite coffee alternative.
- For a festive twist, serve churros with a vegan caramel sauce and chopped nuts.
If you’re interested in more vegan dessert recipes, check out this Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or try the Vegan Beignet Recipe: Easy, Fluffy, and Delicious Treat for another sweet indulgence.
Conclusion
Vegan churros are a delightful, crowd-pleasing treat that proves plant-based desserts can be just as indulgent and satisfying as traditional versions. With simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, and endless dipping possibilities, this recipe is perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy a taste of something sweet without compromising their vegan lifestyle.
Whether you’re making them for a festive occasion or a cozy evening at home, these churros offer that perfect crispy texture and cinnamon-sugar goodness you love.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different coatings and dipping sauces or explore other vegan recipes like the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to expand your plant-based culinary repertoire.
Happy cooking and even happier eating!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Churro Recipe
Description: Crispy and golden vegan churros coated in cinnamon sugar, perfect for dipping in chocolate sauce. Easy to make and deliciously satisfying.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine water, 2 tbsp sugar, salt, and 2 tbsp vegetable oil; bring to a boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in flour and baking powder until a dough forms.
- Let the dough cool for 5 minutes, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 375°F (190°C).
- Pipe dough into hot oil using a pastry bag with a star tip, cutting to desired length.
- Fry churros until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Mix 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Roll warm churros in cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve immediately with vegan chocolate sauce if desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 10g | Carbs: 30g
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