Churro-Inspired Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Mini fried donut holes coated in warm cinnamon sugar, inspired by the classic churro flavors for a delightful bite-sized treat. This mexican-inspired desserts ready in about 35 minutes layers all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 110 calories and feeds 24, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cups vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup extra granulated sugar for coating
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt until combined.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup whole milk, 1 large egg, and 3 tbsp melted unsalted butter until smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined to form a sticky dough.
- Step 4: Heat 4 cups vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F using a thermometer.
- Step 5: Using a small cookie scoop or two spoons, carefully drop 1-inch portions of dough into the hot oil, frying in batches for about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 6: Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Step 7: In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tbsp ground cinnamon. Toss the warm donut holes in the cinnamon sugar until fully coated. Serve warm.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Churro-Inspired Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.
How do I store leftover Churro-Inspired Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes?
Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.
Can I substitute ingredients in Churro-Inspired Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Churro-Inspired Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 24 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 24). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Churro-Inspired Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes?
Mexican desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
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