There’s something absolutely magical about a cinnamon sugar dessert that’s crisp on the outside and tender within—and that’s exactly what you get with Churros Poppers. These bite-sized wonders deliver all the nostalgia and joy of classic churros, yet are even more fun to share and eat! Whether you’re hosting friends, treating the kids, or simply craving a sweet pick-me-up, Churros Poppers bring golden, festive deliciousness to any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of classic pantry staples can come together to create something so crave-worthy. Each ingredient plays a starring role in giving these Churros Poppers their trademark flavor, perfect texture, and irresistible aroma.

Water: Forms the base of your dough and helps bind everything together.
Granulated Sugar (2 1/2 tablespoons + 1/2 cup): Sweetens both the dough and the exterior for that essential churro flavor.
Salt: Brightens the sweetness and balances the overall flavor.
Vegetable Oil (for dough & frying): Ensures a moist dough and crispy, golden exterior.
All-Purpose Flour: Gives your Churros Poppers their light, pillowy backbone.
Large Eggs: Bring richness and help make each popper soft and airy inside.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Ground Cinnamon: For classic churro aroma and that signature warm-spiced taste.

How to Make Churros Poppers

Step 1: Prepare the Dough Base

Begin by combining your water, initial portion of sugar, salt, and just a touch of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan. Let this mixture come to a boil over medium heat—the bubbling helps the sugar dissolve and binds the flavors together, setting the stage for perfect choux dough.

Step 2: Form the Dough Ball

Remove the saucepan from the heat as soon as it boils. Add in your flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until everything comes together in a big, sticky blob. This simple move transforms basic ingredients into a dough that’s ready for popper magic.

Step 3: Add Eggs & Vanilla

Transfer your dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for a few minutes—you want it warm, not hot, so the eggs don’t scramble. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each, then stir in the vanilla. The dough will become glossy and a bit sticky, the perfect consistency for scooping.

Step 4: Fry the Churros Poppers

In a deep pot, heat about two inches of vegetable oil to 375°F. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the hot oil (just a few at a time so they don’t overcrowd). Fry, turning occasionally, until each Churros Popper is gorgeously golden brown—about 2 to 3 minutes per batch.

Step 5: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

Once fried, use a slotted spoon to transfer the poppers onto a plate lined with paper towels. Mix your remaining sugar with ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl, then tumble the warm Churros Poppers in the mixture until they’re coated in sparkling, fragrant sweetness. Serve immediately for best results!

How to Serve Churros Poppers

Garnishes

The classic cinnamon sugar coating is all you really need, but if you want to go the extra mile, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an elegant flourish. A quick sprinkle of finely chopped almonds or a touch of sea salt can add a sophisticated edge if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

For the ultimate sweet treat platter, pair your Churros Poppers with dipping bowls of chocolate sauce, rich caramel, or even a fruity raspberry coulis. These little bites also snuggle up nicely alongside creamy vanilla ice cream or a velvety café con leche for an afternoon indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile your Churros Poppers high in a rustic basket lined with festive paper, or skewer them on sticks for easy party eating. Mini paper cones make them perfect for on-the-go snacking at family gatherings, picnics, or festive movie nights. You can even arrange them in a circle around a bowl of dip for a shareable centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you magically end up with leftover Churros Poppers (it’s rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. This keeps them from getting soggy and preserves their beautiful crispness for at least another day.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Churros Poppers! Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for about a month—just remember to hold off on rolling them in cinnamon sugar until after reheating.

Reheating

To bring leftover or frozen Churros Poppers back to life, pop them in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crisp. If reheating from frozen, give them a couple extra minutes. Once hot, toss them in fresh cinnamon sugar to revive that sparkle and crunch.

FAQs

Can I make Churros Poppers in advance for a party?

Yes! Fry them earlier in the day, store at room temp, then re-crisp in the oven and toss in cinnamon sugar just before serving. They’ll taste freshly made and party guests will never know the difference!

What kind of oil is best for frying Churros Poppers?

Any neutral, high-heat oil works well—vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil are excellent choices. Avoid olive oil, as its flavor can overwhelm the delicate sweetness of the poppers.

Can I bake Churros Poppers instead of frying?

While traditional Churros Poppers are all about that perfectly fried crunch, you can pipe or scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and bake at 400°F until golden. They won’t be quite as crisp but will still taste delicious—perfect if you’re seeking a lighter option.

How do I keep the oil at the right temperature?

An instant-read thermometer takes the guesswork out of frying, letting you monitor that magic 375°F mark. If you don’t have one, drop in a small bit of dough; it should sizzle and float to the top steadily, not furiously bubble or sink.

Can I fill the Churros Poppers with something sweet?

Absolutely! After frying, poke a small hole in each popper and pipe in dulce de leche, Nutella, or jam for a delightful surprise inside. Just add a dusting of cinnamon sugar for extra charm.

Final Thoughts

Few desserts inspire as many smiles as golden, warm Churros Poppers—and once you try making them at home, you’ll see why they’re so irresistibly special. Gather your ingredients, heat up the oil, and invite a little fun into your kitchen. Your friends and family will be delighted, and these churro bites might just become your newest go-to treat!

Churros Poppers Recipe

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4.7 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 poppers 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Churros Poppers are delightful mini churros coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture, perfect for a fun and delicious treat. These fried dough bites are easy to make and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

1 cup water
2 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Coating:

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
vegetable oil for frying

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Instructions

In a medium saucepan, combine water, 2 1/2 tablespoons sugar, salt, and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in the flour until the mixture forms a ball.
Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let cool slightly. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 375°F (190°C). Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, drop small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) into the hot oil, frying a few at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
In a shallow bowl, mix the 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon. Toss the warm churro poppers in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated. Serve immediately.