Baked Churro Bites Recipe

Cook Time: 40 minutes

If youve ever been skeptical about baked versions of deep-fried treats, youre not alone. It's hard to imagine something baked tasting as good as the crispy, golden version that comes straight out of hot oil. But these Baked Churro Bites might just change your mind. While they don't have the exact crispy exterior of their fried counterparts, the texture, flavor, and appearance are remarkably close. And best of all, theyre perfect for dipping into thick, rich Spanish-style hot chocolate. Trust me, youll love them.

The dough for churros is often compared to French pte choux, but Ive made a few adjustments. This version results in a denser dough that is closer to the classic churro texture. Get ready for a delicious treat thats just as satisfying as the traditional fried version!

Ingredients

This recipe makes approximately 30 churro bites, with each bite delivering a balance of sweetness, warmth, and cinnamon goodness.

• 1 1/4 cups water
• 5 tablespoons cold unsalted butter
• 2 packed tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing before sugaring)
• Cooking spray
• Cinnamon Sugar:
• 1/3 cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1: In a saucepan, combine water, butter, brown sugar, and salt. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until it comes to a simmer.

Step 2: Once the mixture is simmering, add the flour all at once. Stir constantly for about 5 minutes, until a soft, sticky dough ball forms and a starchy film coats the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Continue cooking for another minute, scraping the film off the bottom of the pan as you stir. The film won't completely disappear, but it will be absorbed into the dough. Transfer the dough into a bowl and let it cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: After cooling, add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time. Mix in each egg with a spatula until fully incorporated. The mixture may look separated at first, but it will eventually come together into a sticky dough.

Step 5: Preheat the oven to 425F (220C). Line two baking sheets with Silpat mats or parchment paper.

Step 6: Transfer the dough to a pastry bag fitted with a star tip (a number 356 tip works well). Pipe the dough into 3 to 4-inch long ropes on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them a few inches apart. Use the back of a knife to cut off the dough at the end of each piped rope to ensure a clean finish. Aim to pipe 14 to 15 churros on each sheet.

Step 7: Lightly spray the tops of the churros with vegetable oil spray, and then generously spray the pan with water to create a steamy environment for baking.

Step 8: Bake the churros in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until puffed and lightly golden brown at the edges. Once done, turn off the oven and open the door for about 10 seconds to release some of the heat. Close the door slightly ajar (8 to 12 inches) and let the churros rest for 10 minutes inside the oven.

Step 9: Remove the churros from the oven. Working in batches of 6, brush each churro lightly with melted butter, then toss them in a bag with cinnamon sugar to coat.

Enjoy your freshly baked churro bites! Whether youre pairing them with hot chocolate or enjoying them on their own, theyre sure to be a hit.

Nutrition Facts

Each serving of these churro bites contains the following nutritional information:

Nutrition Fact	Amount per Serving
Calories	60
Total Fat	3g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	20mg
Sodium	65mg
Total Carbohydrates	7g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	1g
Calcium	7mg
Iron	0mg
Potassium	13mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Churros are a beloved treat with a long history and rich cultural significance. While traditionally deep-fried, these baked churro bites offer a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor. In this article, we explore the origins of churros, regional variations, what sets them apart from similar treats, and where they are commonly enjoyed. Plus, we share a few fun facts about this iconic dessert!

History and Origins of Churros

Churros have their origins in Spain and are thought to have been inspired by the Chinese "youtiao," a type of fried dough that was brought to Spain by Portuguese sailors in the 16th century. Over time, Spanish cooks adapted the recipe, and churros became a staple of Spanish cuisine, particularly in Madrid. The churro's signature star-shaped ridges are thought to have come from the use of a star-shaped nozzle for piping dough. The popularity of churros spread throughout Latin America, where they became a beloved street food enjoyed with hot chocolate.

Regional Variations of Churros

While churros are found across Spain and Latin America, each region has its own unique take on this treat. In Spain, churros are often served for breakfast, paired with thick, Spanish-style hot chocolate. In Mexico, churros are frequently filled with sweet fillings like chocolate, caramel, or dulce de leche, adding a twist to the traditional recipe. In Argentina, churros are sometimes served in smaller, bite-sized pieces, similar to the "baked churro bites" recipe we present here. Regardless of the variation, churros are universally enjoyed for their crispy, sugary exterior and soft, doughy interior.

How Baked Churro Bites Differ from Fried Churros

While traditional churros are deep-fried to achieve their crispy exterior, baked churros provide a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. The baked version has a slightly less crispy exterior but retains the same fluffy, soft interior. The dough for both versions is quite similar, made from a combination of flour, water, butter, and eggs. The key difference lies in the cooking method. Baked churro bites are piped into small shapes, brushed with melted butter, and coated in cinnamon sugar before being baked in the oven. This method results in a lighter, less greasy churro that still satisfies the craving for a sweet, crunchy treat.

Where Are Churros Typically Served?

Churros are a popular street food found in many countries, often served at food stalls or carts. In Spain, they are typically enjoyed for breakfast or as a late-night snack, often accompanied by a rich, thick cup of hot chocolate for dipping. In Mexico, churros are sold at fairs, carnivals, and markets, where they are often filled with sweet fillings like chocolate or caramel. Additionally, churros have become a favorite treat at theme parks and in cafes around the world. Baked churro bites, being a slightly healthier option, are perfect for serving at family gatherings or casual get-togethers, offering a fun and tasty dessert without the extra grease from frying.

Fun Facts About Churros

• The word "churro" is believed to be derived from the "Churra" sheep, whose horns resemble the twisted shape of the churro.
• In Spain, churros are sometimes referred to as "porras" in some regions, particularly in Madrid. The term "porra" is used for thicker, longer churros.
• Churros are so popular in Spain that they are sold at almost every corner in cities like Madrid, where locals enjoy them with a cup of "chocolate a la taza" (thick hot chocolate).
• Churros are sometimes served in a "chocolate con churros" breakfast combination, where the churros are dipped into a rich, thick hot chocolate.
• Churros are not just for sweet snacks! In some variations, they are made savory by adding cheese or other fillings inside the dough.

Conclusion

Whether you're enjoying a traditional fried churro or a healthier baked churro bite, there's no denying the universal appeal of this delicious pastry. With its crunchy exterior, soft interior, and sweet cinnamon coating, churros are a treat loved around the world. The baked version offers a lighter alternative thats just as satisfying, and these baked churro bites are perfect for any occasion. Next time you're craving churros, why not give these a try?

FAQ about Baked Churro Bites Recipe

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