Name: Homemade Churros with Mexican Chocolate Dipping Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1/2 cup water; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1 cup all purpose, unbleached flour; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; Canola or vegetable oil for frying; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 4 ounces semisweet chocolate; 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 4 drops almond extract (1 drop per ounce of chocolate); Pinch of chili powder (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself dreaming of crunchy, golden treats dipped in rich and spicy chocolate, then you’re in for a real delight with Homemade Churros with Mexican Chocolate Dipping Sauce. This irresistible combination brings together crispy, fluffy churros dusted in cinnamon sugar paired with a luscious chocolate sauce that has subtle hints of cinnamon, almond, and just a kiss of chili powder. Making them at home is surprisingly simple, and the reward is a mouthwatering snack that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself. Get ready for a fun, hands-on cooking experience that will fill your kitchen with the wonderful aroma of freshly fried churros and warm Mexican chocolate.

Homemade Churros with Mexican Chocolate Dipping Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating that perfect texture and flavor balance of Homemade Churros with Mexican Chocolate Dipping Sauce. From the wet ingredients that make the dough smooth and pliable, to the cinnamon-sugar coating that adds crunch and spice, each piece is essential. Let’s break down the pantry and fridge staples you’ll gather for this delicious adventure.

1/2 cup water: Provides moisture to activate the flour and create the right dough consistency.
1/2 cup milk: Adds richness and tenderness to the churros.
1/4 cup unsalted butter: Enhances flavor and helps create a tender crumb.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Balances the salt and adds a touch of sweetness in the dough.
1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Brings out all the flavors perfectly.
1 cup all-purpose, unbleached flour: The base of the churro dough, giving it structure.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds aromatic depth to the dough.
2 large eggs: Provide richness, moisture, and help bind the dough.
Canola or vegetable oil for frying: Perfect for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: For rolling the churros to give them that sweet crunch.
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: Infuses the churros with a warm, fragrant spice.
4 ounces semisweet chocolate: Creates the luscious base for the dipping sauce.
3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream: Makes the chocolate sauce smooth and creamy.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds spice to the chocolate sauce for a harmonious flavor.
4 drops almond extract: Gives the sauce a subtle nuttiness that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Pinch of chili powder (optional): Adds a gentle spicy kick that is traditional to Mexican chocolate.

How to Make Homemade Churros with Mexican Chocolate Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining the water, milk, butter, sugar, and sea salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Heat until it reaches a rolling boil, making sure the butter melts completely. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the all-purpose flour and vanilla extract vigorously with a wooden spoon. Keep stirring until the mixture forms a smooth ball that pulls away from the pan sides, indicating it’s cooked just right. Remove from heat and allow to cool for about 10 minutes before moving on.

Step 2: Incorporate the Eggs

Once the dough is cool enough to handle but still warm, add the eggs one at a time. After each addition, stir thoroughly until the dough is fully combined. This part requires a bit of muscle and patience, but the silky, glossy texture you’re aiming for is worth the effort. The eggs are critical—they provide moisture and bind everything together while contributing to the churros’ light fluffiness inside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

While the dough rests, whisk together the ground cinnamon and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. This simple mixture is what you’ll toss the freshly fried churros in, creating that addictive sweet crust with a spicy warmth that is honestly the best part of these homemade treats.

Step 4: Heat the Oil and Fry the Churros

Fill a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer with at least two inches of canola or vegetable oil and heat to 350°F (175°C), using a thermometer for accuracy. Fit a piping bag with a large star tip and fill it with your churro dough. Pipe 3-4 inch lengths directly into the hot oil, snipping the dough with scissors as you go.

Fry the churros in batches, turning every 2-3 minutes until they turn a glorious golden brown on both sides. Be gentle when flipping so they keep their shape perfectly. Once cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, then immediately roll them in your cinnamon-sugar mixture while still warm. This extra step ensures every bite is packed with sweet cinnamon goodness.

Step 5: Make the Mexican Chocolate Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, gently scald the heavy cream until steaming but not boiling. Pour the hot cream over the semisweet chocolate, cinnamon, almond extract, and optional chili powder. Let the mixture sit undisturbed for about 10 minutes, allowing the chocolate to melt and infuse with the spices. Then whisk vigorously until the sauce is glossy, smooth, and irresistibly thick. Serve this alongside your churros while warm for dipping joy.

How to Serve Homemade Churros with Mexican Chocolate Dipping Sauce

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, sprinkle some extra ground cinnamon or finely chopped toasted almonds over your churros. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a pretty touch and subtle sweetness. If you love a hint of zest, a sprinkle of orange zest pairs wonderfully with the chocolate sauce’s depth.

Side Dishes

These churros shine as a special treat on their own, but you can serve them alongside fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or mango for a bright contrast. Hot beverages such as Mexican hot chocolate or cinnamon-spiced coffee also make a cozy accompaniment, creating a perfect pairing for a casual brunch or dessert party.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Homemade Churros with Mexican Chocolate Dipping Sauce in a rustic wooden board or a festive Mexican ceramic dish to match the vibrant flavors. For a playful twist, stack the churros into a mini churro tower and drizzle the chocolate sauce artistically over the top. You can also offer a variety of dipping sauces—such as dulce de leche or caramel—to create an exciting tasting experience for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover churros, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. Churros are best enjoyed fresh, but this will help keep them somewhat crispy. Avoid refrigerating as it can cause them to stiffen and lose their light texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cooked churros by arranging them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and keep for up to 2 months. Freeze the Mexican chocolate dipping sauce separately in a small airtight container.

Reheating

Reheat churros in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes until crisp and warm again. Avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy. Warm the chocolate sauce gently over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds, stirring to restore its smooth texture before serving.

FAQs

Can I make churros without a piping bag?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a plastic zip-top bag with one corner snipped off or even drop spoonfuls of dough into the oil for a rustic, bite-sized version of churros.

What type of chocolate is best for the dipping sauce?

Semisweet chocolate works best for the Mexican chocolate dipping sauce, providing a perfect balance of sweetness and cacao flavor. You can also experiment with bittersweet chocolate for a richer sauce or milk chocolate for a sweeter option.

Is the chili powder necessary in the chocolate sauce?

The chili powder is optional but highly recommended for an authentic touch. It adds a subtle warmth and complexity that pairs beautifully with the chocolate’s richness without making it spicy. Feel free to omit if you prefer a more straightforward chocolate flavor.

How can I tell when the oil is at the right frying temperature?

Using a deep fry thermometer ensures precision, but if you don’t have one, test the oil by dropping a small bit of dough in—if it sizzles and floats to the surface quickly but doesn’t burn immediately, the temperature is just right (around 350°F).

Can these churros be baked instead of fried?

You can bake churros for a lighter version, but frying is what gives them that classic crispy exterior and tender inside combo. If baking, use a convection oven and pipe churros on parchment, baking at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or until crisp and golden, though the texture will differ slightly.

Final Thoughts

Making Homemade Churros with Mexican Chocolate Dipping Sauce is such a joyful and rewarding kitchen experience that brings a little fiesta into your home. From the moment the dough hits the hot oil to that first dip into the warm, spiced chocolate, each bite transports you to a place of comfort and indulgence. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients, invite some friends or family, and enjoy this deliciously fun treat together. You’re going to love every crunchy, gooey moment!

Homemade Churros with Mexican Chocolate Dipping Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 9 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: About 12 churros 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This recipe for Homemade Churros with Mexican Chocolate Dipping Sauce offers a delightful treat with crispy, cinnamon-sugar coated churros paired perfectly with a rich, smooth chocolate sauce infused with almond extract and a hint of chili. Perfect for dessert or a festive snack, these churros are fried to golden perfection and served warm for an indulgent experience.

Instructions

Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon. Set this mixture aside for rolling the churros after frying.
Make the Churro Dough: In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon sea salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, stir in 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Reduce heat to low and stir continuously until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 10 minutes.
Add Eggs: Add 2 large eggs to the cooled dough one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the mixture is smooth and combined.
Prepare for Frying: Transfer the churro dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star-shaped tip. Heat at least 2 inches of canola or vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed large pot to 350°F (175°C), using a deep-fry thermometer for accuracy.
Fry the Churros: Pipe 3 to 4-inch lengths of dough into the hot oil in batches of 4-5 churros. Use a knife or scissors to cut the dough at the tip of the piping bag. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, turning with tongs until golden brown and crisp. Remove churros with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels for about 30 seconds.
Coat Churros: While the churros are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. Set aside on a serving plate.
Make the Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Heat 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream until steaming but not boiling, either in the microwave or on the stovetop. Pour the hot cream over 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 4 drops almond extract, and a pinch of chili powder (if using). Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to melt the chocolate, then whisk until smooth and glossy.
Serve: Serve the warm churros immediately with the Mexican chocolate dipping sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy this delightful treat fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

Ensure the oil temperature stays around 350°F for even cooking and crisp churros.
Use a large star tip for piping to create the classic ridges on churros.
The almond extract and chili powder in the chocolate sauce add authentic depth but can be omitted if preferred.
Store leftover churros in an airtight container and reheat in an oven to maintain crispness.
Be cautious when frying and handle hot oil safely, preferably using a heavy-bottomed pot and thermometer.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Mexican