Some days feel like a marathon I didn’t sign up for, and dinner still has to happen. One evening, after a whirlwind of kid chaos and yet another cup of cold coffee, I found myself craving something warm, comforting, and just a little magical—like those Disney churros that instantly bring smiles. That craving turned into these Best Homemade Churros, made with simple ingredients and delivering that perfectly crispy, cinnamon-sugar crunch without the fuss.

This is the kind of recipe that feels special but stays totally doable, even on busy nights. If you love easy desserts that make the whole family happy, you’re going to want to save this one.

What Are Homemade Churros

The best homemade churros are golden, crispy sticks coated generously in cinnamon sugar, made from a simple dough that comes together quickly. Inspired by classic churros, this version is easy to customize—make them eggless, turn them into mini churros, or even adapt them for the air fryer.

They’re perfect as a stand-alone dessert, part of a churro bar, or paired with your favorite dipping sauces. Whether you’re after a nostalgic treat or a fun family dessert, these churros deliver every time.

Ingredients

1 cup water
2 ½ tablespoons sugar
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg (optional, omit for eggless churros)
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the cinnamon sugar coating

½ cup sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Mixing bowl
Piping bag with large star tip or zip-top bag with corner cut
Large skillet or deep fryer
Slotted spoon
Paper towels
Baking sheet or plate

How to Make Homemade Churros

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, salt, and vegetable oil. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

Step 2

Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the flour until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the pan.

Step 3

Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and allow it to cool slightly for about 5 minutes.

Step 4

If using an egg, beat it lightly and mix it into the dough along with vanilla extract. For eggless churros, simply mix in the vanilla.

Step 5

Heat oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Step 6

Fill a piping bag with the dough and pipe 4–5 inch strips directly into the hot oil, working in batches.

Step 7

Fry the churros for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Step 8

Remove churros with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 9

Mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish and roll each warm churro until evenly coated.

Step 10

Serve immediately with chocolate sauce, dulce de leche, or your favorite dip.

Tips for Perfect Churros

Use a star piping tip for that classic churros look and extra crunch.
Let the dough cool slightly before piping so it’s easier to handle.
Keep oil temperature steady to avoid soggy churros.
Pipe shorter strips to create fun mini churros for parties.

Try baking or air frying at 400°F for 10–12 minutes for a lighter option.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover churros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To restore crispiness, reheat briefly in a hot oven or air fryer before serving.

What to Eat With Churros

These churros are delicious paired with chocolate sauce, dulce de leche, sweetened condensed milk, or Chick fil A Ice Cream Recipe. They also work beautifully as part of a churro bar or served alongside ice cream for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert.

FAQ

Can I make these churros without eggs

Yes, simply omit the egg and add a bit more vanilla or cinnamon for flavor.

What’s the secret to crispy churros

Maintaining the oil temperature around 375°F and frying in small batches ensures a crispy outside and tender inside.

Can I use an air fryer

Absolutely. Pipe the dough and cook at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes until golden.

How do I make mini churros

Pipe shorter strips of dough before frying or baking for bite-sized treats.

What are fun ways to serve churros

Create a churro bar with multiple dips, serve them with ice cream, or turn them into a playful dessert platter for gatherings.

Conclusion

Making the Best Homemade Churros is an easy way to bring a little magic into your kitchen. With simple steps, flexible options like eggless or air fryer churros, and that irresistible cinnamon-sugar finish, this recipe fits perfectly into busy family life. Serve them warm, enjoy the smiles, and savor every crispy, sweet bite.