Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These baked churro bites are irresistibly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. With a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, each bite packs all the flavor of a classic churro but without the mess and extra calories of frying. The best part? They’re easy to make with minimal ingredients and just a little bit of time. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with less effort!
Ingredients
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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2 teaspoons baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1/2 cup milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
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1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
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Add the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, stirring until the dough comes together.
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Lightly flour your hands and roll the dough into small bite-sized balls, about 1-inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the churro bites are golden and cooked through.
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While the churro bites are baking, mix the 1/4 cup of sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl.
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Once the churro bites are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Roll each bite in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well coated.
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Serve warm and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: This recipe makes approximately 20 churro bites, serving about 4-5 people.
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
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Total Time: 22-25 minutes
Variations
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Chocolate-Dipped: Add a chocolate dipping sauce on the side for an extra indulgent treat.
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Add a Nutmeg Twist: Substitute half of the cinnamon with nutmeg for a unique flavor twist.
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Vegan Churro Bites: Use plant-based butter and milk to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these churro bites gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftover churro bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
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Reheating: To reheat, simply pop the churro bites back in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are warm and slightly crispy again. You can also reheat them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, though they will lose a bit of their crispiness.
FAQs
Can I fry these churro bites instead of baking them?
Yes, you can fry them in hot oil until golden brown, but baking them is a healthier and easier option. Frying will also require a bit more cleanup.
Can I make these churro bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough, shape it into balls, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, just bake as directed.
Can I freeze churro bites for later?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked dough balls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I keep my churro bites crispy?
To maintain their crispiness, store them in an airtight container at room temperature and avoid storing them in the fridge, as it can make them soggy.
Can I make these churro bites without butter?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with oil or even a non-dairy butter substitute for a dairy-free version.
What can I use instead of vanilla extract?
If you don’t have vanilla extract, you can use almond extract for a slightly different flavor, or even maple syrup for a unique twist.
Can I make these churro bites smaller or larger?
Yes, you can adjust the size of the churro bites depending on your preference. Just be mindful that smaller bites will bake quicker, while larger ones will need a little more time.
Can I use brown sugar for the cinnamon-sugar coating?
Yes, brown sugar can be used for a richer, more molasses-like flavor. It will add a slight difference in texture and flavor.
Are these churro bites safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, these churro bites do not contain any nuts, but always check your ingredient labels to be sure.
Can I make these churro bites with whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour, though the texture may be slightly denser.
Conclusion
Baked churro bites are a fun and easy dessert that everyone will enjoy. With their crispy exterior and soft, cinnamon-sugar coating, they offer all the delicious flavors of churros without the frying. Whether you’re looking for a quick treat for yourself or a crowd-pleasing snack for a party, these churro bites are sure to hit the spot. They’re customizable, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion.
