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A beautiful stack of citrus zest churros. They are golden yellow, covered in sugar and garnished with orange peel with orange slices on the side

Citrus Zest Churros

These churros feature a vibrant citrus note with the addition of fresh lemon or orange zest, adding a light and refreshing twist to the classic.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, Mexican, Spanish
Servings 12 Churros
Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Medium saucepan
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • 1 Large pastry bag fitted with a large star tip
  • 1 Deep fryer or large pot
  • 1 Tongs or slotted spoon
  • 1 Paper towel-lined plate
  • 1 Shallow dish for cinnamon-sugar mixture
  • 1 Zester or grater

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Cup Water
  • 1/4 Cup Unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1 Tbsp Granulated sugar
  • 1/4 Tsp Salt
  • 1 Cup All-purpose flour
  • 1 Large Egg
  • 1 Tbsp Finely grated lemon or orange zest (about 1 lemon or orange)
  • Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
  • 1/2 Cup Granulated sugar
  • 1 Tsp Ground cinnamon

Instructions
 

  • Make the Dough: In a saucepan, heat water, butter, sugar, and salt over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
  • Add Flour & Zest: Reduce heat to low. Immediately add flour and citrus zest. Stir vigorously until the dough pulls away from the sides and forms a ball.
  • Incorporate Egg: Remove pan from heat. Transfer dough to a large bowl and let cool for 5 minutes. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
  • Heat Oil: Fill a deep fryer or large pot with 2 inches of oil. Heat to 360°F (180°C). Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
  • Pipe and Fry: Transfer dough to the pastry bag. Pipe 4-5 inch ropes of dough directly into the hot oil. Use a knife or scissors to cut the dough. Fry in batches until golden brown, flipping once.
  • Drain and Coat: Remove churros with tongs or a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Immediately roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Notes

Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of citrus glaze (powdered sugar mixed with a touch of citrus juice), or alongside fresh fruit.
Storage Guidance: Best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day.
Recipe Notes:
  • Citrus Choice: Use either lemon or orange zest, or a combination for a more complex flavor.
  • Zest Only: Avoid grating the white pith of the citrus, as it can be bitter.
  • Oil Temperature: Monitor oil temperature throughout frying to ensure consistent results.
  • Don't Overcrowd: Fry in batches to prevent churros from sticking and to maintain oil temperature.
Please Note: Ingredient costs and calorie counts can fluctuate. These are intended as general guides.
Keyword Churro, Churros recipe, Citrus Zest Churo Recipe, Citrus Zest Churro, classic churro recipe, Orange zest churros