Step 1: Prepare the Churro Dough
- Combine Water, Butter, and Salt: In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add Flour: Remove from heat and quickly stir in the flour until it forms a ball of dough and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Mix in Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
Step 2: Fry the Churros
- Heat Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat. Use enough oil to submerge the churros completely.
- Pipe Churros: Transfer the churro dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
- Fry Churros: Pipe 4-6 inch lengths of dough directly into the hot oil, using scissors or a knife to cut the dough from the piping tip. Fry each churro until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove churros from the oil using a slotted spoon or tongs and drain on paper towels briefly.
Step 3: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
- Combine Sugar and Cinnamon: In a shallow dish, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Coat Churros: While still warm, roll each churro in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Warm: Serve homemade churros warm and fresh. They are delicious on their own or with chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or dulce de leche for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Churros:
- Consistency of Dough: Ensure the dough is smooth and free of lumps before piping. It should hold its shape well when piped into the hot oil.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for crispy churros without becoming greasy.
- Piping Tip: A large star tip helps create the classic ridges on churros, but you can use a plain round tip if needed.
- Enjoy Fresh: Churros are best enjoyed fresh and warm, as they can lose their crispiness over time.
Enjoy making these Homemade Churros and delight in their crispy, cinnamon-sugar goodness!