Churros Poppers are a delightful twist on the classic churro, offering a crispy exterior and soft interior coated in cinnamon-sugar. These bite-sized treats are perfect for sharing, dipping, or enjoying as a sweet dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Dough:
- 1 cup water
- 2 ½ tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
For Frying:
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
In a medium bowl or brown paper bag, combine ½ cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Set this mixture aside for coating the poppers later.
2. Heat the Oil
Heat about 2 ½ inches of oil in a deep-fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F (190°C).
3. Make the Dough
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup water, 2 ½ tablespoons sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup of flour until the dough forms a ball.
4. Form the Dough Balls
Allow the dough to cool slightly. Scoop and roll the dough into small balls, roughly the size of walnuts.
5. Fry the Dough Balls
Carefully place 3-4 dough balls into the hot oil, ensuring the pan is not overcrowded. Fry the dough balls for about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown.
6. Coat with Cinnamon-Sugar
Once fried, remove the dough balls from the oil and immediately toss them in the reserved cinnamon-sugar mixture until well-coated.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the coated Churros Poppers to a plate and repeat the frying and coating process with the remaining dough balls. Serve immediately while still warm.
Tips for Serving and Storing Churros Poppers
Serving Tips:
- Dip Options: Serve with chocolate ganache, caramel, dulce de leche, or strawberry sauce for added flavor.
- Garnish Ideas: Sprinkle powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Pair with Drinks: Enjoy with hot chocolate, coffee, or a glass of cold milk to complement the cinnamon-sugar coating.
- Ice Cream Combo: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delightful dessert pairing.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Churros Poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
- Freezing: Freeze cooled poppers on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or use an air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.
- Avoid Sogginess: Keep dipping sauces and toppings separate to avoid sogginess while storing.
Variations for Churros Poppers
- Filled Churros Poppers: Add Nutella, dulce de leche, or pastry cream into the center before frying for a sweet surprise.
- Spicy Churros Poppers: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a spicy kick.
- Zesty Citrus Churros Poppers: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
- Chocolate Churros Poppers: Mix cocoa powder into the dough or roll them in a cocoa-cinnamon-sugar mixture after frying.
- Coconut Churros Poppers: Roll the fried poppers in a mixture of cinnamon-sugar and shredded coconut flakes for a tropical flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I bake Churros Poppers instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the uncooked dough balls for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.
Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is recommended, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary.
How do I keep Churros Poppers warm before serving?
Keep them warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while finishing the remaining batches to maintain their crispiness.
Can I freeze Churros Poppers?
Yes, freeze cooled Churros Poppers for up to 2-3 months. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or use an air fryer to restore their crispy texture.
Conclusion
Churros Poppers offer a fun and delicious twist on the classic churro. With their crispy, golden exterior and soft, fluffy interior, they’re perfect for any occasion. Customize them with different flavor variations or enjoy them plain with a cinnamon-sugar coating. Whether served fresh or reheated, Churros Poppers are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and become a favorite treat in your home.