The Basic Baked Churro
This recipe provides the foundation for mastering baked churros. It focuses on achieving the ideal texture: crispy exterior with a slightly softer interior compared to traditional fried churros.
Equipment
- 1 Medium saucepan
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- 1 Large pastry bag fitted with a large star tip
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Wire rack
- 1 Shallow dish for cinnamon-sugar mixture
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
- Vegetable oil cooking spray (for greasing)
- 1/2 Cup Granulated sugar, for coating
- 1 Tsp Ground cinnamon, for coating
Instructions
- Make the Dough:In a saucepan, heat water, butter, sugar, and salt over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low. Immediately add flour and 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.
- Preheat Oven & Prepare:Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with cooking spray.
- Pipe and Bake: Transfer dough to the pastry bag. Pipe 4-5 inch ropes of dough directly onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly puffed.
- Coat and Cool: Immediately roll churros in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Let cool on a wire rack.
Notes
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauces like chocolate, caramel, or fruit compote.
Recipe Notes:
- Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so adjust baking time if needed for your desired level of crispness.
- Don't Overcrowd: Leave space between churros on the sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Fresh is Best: Baked churros are best enjoyed the same day.
- Texture Difference: Baked churros will not have the exact same crispy texture as their fried counterparts but should be slightly crunchy on the outside.
- Experiment: This recipe is your starting point. Adjust baking times or try a higher temperature for the last few minutes of baking to find your preferred crispiness level.