Costco Has Nothing On These Churros

Costco Has Nothing On These Churros is a medium American recipe that serves 4. 460 calories per serving. Recipe by ThatDudeCanCook on YouTube.

Prep: 12 min | Cook: 23 min | Total: 45 min

Cost: $9.79 total, $2.45 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Water (for the dough base)
  • 7 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (cut into small pieces)
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar (for the dough)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt (for the dough)
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
  • 3 large Eggs (room temperature)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (for the dough)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for the dough)
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (for chocolate sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon Light Corn Syrup (for chocolate sauce, adds shine)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for chocolate sauce)
  • Pinch Salt (for chocolate sauce)
  • 3/4 cup Dark Chocolate (chopped; 70% cocoa or higher)
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar (for cinnamon sugar coating)
  • 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (for cinnamon sugar coating)
  • 2 quarts Neutral Oil (Canola, Peanut, or Vegetable) (for deep frying; maintain 375°F)

Instructions

  1. Make the Churro Dough Base

    In a medium saucepan combine 1 cup water, 7 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 tbsp white sugar, and 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a rolling boil over medium‑high heat.

    Time: PT3M

  2. Cook the Flour

    Add 1 cup all‑purpose flour all at once, stirring vigorously. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until a thin film forms on the bottom of the pot and the mixture pulls away from the sides.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Incorporate the Eggs

    Transfer the hot dough to a large mixing bowl. Beat in the three eggs one at a time, fully mixing each egg before adding the next. The dough will look separated at first but will become smooth and glossy.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Add Flavorings to the Dough

    Stir in 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon and 1 tsp vanilla extract until evenly distributed.

    Time: PT1M

  5. Prepare the Chocolate Sauce

    In a clean saucepan, combine 1 cup heavy cream, 1 tbsp light corn syrup, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then remove from heat and pour over 3/4 cup chopped dark chocolate in a heat‑proof bowl. Stir until smooth and glossy.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Make Cinnamon Sugar

    Combine 1 cup granulated sugar with 1 tbsp ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Mix until the cinnamon is evenly distributed.

    Time: PT1M

  7. Heat Oil for Frying

    Fill a deep‑fry pot with enough neutral oil to submerge the churros (about 2 quarts). Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C) using a candy thermometer.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 375°F

  8. Pipe and Fry the Churros

    Transfer the dough to a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip (or a zip‑top bag with a corner cut). Pipe 4‑5‑inch strips directly into the hot oil, cutting with scissors to release each churro. Fry for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffed.

    Time: PT8M

    Temperature: 375°F

  9. Drain and Coat

    Using a slotted spoon, lift the churros onto a paper‑towel‑lined plate. While still hot, toss them in the cinnamon‑sugar mixture until fully coated.

    Time: PT2M

  10. Serve

    Arrange the churros on a serving platter and drizzle or dip in the warm chocolate sauce. Enjoy while hot.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
460
Protein
6 g
Carbohydrates
55 g
Fat
22 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian

Allergens: Eggs, Milk, Wheat (gluten), Soy (if soy oil is used)

Last updated: April 7, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Costco Has Nothing On These Churros

Recipe by ThatDudeCanCook

Homemade churros that are light, airy, and perfectly coated in cinnamon sugar, served with a rich dark chocolate dipping sauce. Inspired by the famous Costco churros, this recipe walks you through making the classic dough, frying to golden perfection, and creating a silky chocolate sauce.

MediumAmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
9m
Prep
24m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
43m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$9.79
Total cost
$2.45
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Cooking the flour until a thin film forms (step 2).
  • Fully incorporating the three eggs into the hot dough (step 3).
  • Maintaining oil temperature at 375°F for crisp frying (step 7).
  • Coating churros in cinnamon sugar while still hot (step 9).

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause severe burns; never leave the pot unattended.
  • Steam from the boiling water and butter mixture can cause scalds.
  • Use a thermometer to avoid overheating oil beyond its smoke point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of churros in Spanish and Latin American cuisine?

A

Churros originated in Spain as a simple fried dough pastry, traditionally eaten for breakfast with hot chocolate. They spread to Latin America during colonization, where each country added its own twist, such as filling them with dulce de leche or serving them at festivals.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of churros in Spain versus Mexico?

A

In Spain, churros are often long, thin, and served plain with thick hot chocolate. In Mexico, they are usually shorter, sometimes coated with sugar before frying, and may be filled with cajeta or chocolate. The Mexican version often includes a light dusting of cinnamon sugar, similar to this recipe.

cultural
Q

How is churros traditionally served in Spanish cafés?

A

Spanish cafés typically serve churros in a tall, narrow glass of thick, velvety hot chocolate for dipping. The churros are freshly fried, lightly dusted with sugar, and eaten while still warm.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations are churros associated with in Mexican culture?

A

Churros are popular at fairs, street festivals, and family gatherings in Mexico. They are also a common treat during holidays like Día de los Muertos and are sold by street vendors as a sweet snack any time of day.

cultural
Q

What makes this churro recipe special compared to other home‑cooked churro recipes?

A

This recipe follows the classic “pipe‑and‑fry” technique, creates a light, airy interior by cooking the flour into a paste, and finishes with a rich dark chocolate sauce that adds depth. The addition of a pinch of corn syrup in the sauce gives it a glossy sheen that mimics professional churro stalls.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making churros at home?

A

Common errors include over‑mixing the dough (which makes it dense), not cooking the flour long enough (resulting in gummy churros), and frying at the wrong oil temperature (causing soggy or burnt churros). Following the critical steps listed will prevent these issues.

technical
Q

Why does this churro recipe use a brief 2‑minute fry on each side instead of a longer deep‑fry?

A

A short, high‑heat fry quickly puffs the interior while creating a crisp exterior. Longer frying can dry out the interior and make the churros tough. The 2‑minute per side timing ensures a light, airy bite.

technical
Q

Can I make the churro dough ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to step 4, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bring it back to room temperature before piping and frying to ensure even cooking.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the churros are done cooking?

A

The churros should be golden‑brown all over, slightly puffed in the middle, and have a crisp, ridged surface. When lifted, they should feel light and make a gentle “hollow” sound as they cool.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel ThatDudeCanCook specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel ThatDudeCanCook focuses on approachable, step‑by‑step cooking tutorials for classic comfort foods and street‑food favorites, often adding detailed tips for home cooks of all skill levels.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel ThatDudeCanCook's approach to making churros differ from other cooking channels?

A

ThatDudeCanCook emphasizes precise temperature control, explains the science behind the flour‑paste technique, and provides clear visual cues for each step, which helps viewers achieve restaurant‑quality churros without specialized equipment.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

How to Make Churros
33

How to Make Churros

Crispy, golden churros made from a classic choux dough, fried to perfection and rolled in cinnamon sugar. Served with a quick semi‑sweet chocolate dipping sauce. This recipe from Preppy Kitchen walks you through every step—from dough preparation to frying—so you can recreate street‑vendor quality churros at home.

50 minServes 4$6
Spanish
These lentil patties are better than meat! Protein rich, easy patties recipe! [Vegan] ASMR cooking
29

These lentil patties are better than meat! Protein rich, easy patties recipe! [Vegan] ASMR cooking

A simple, high‑protein vegan lentil patty recipe perfect for lunch or dinner. Soaked red lentils are blended with onion, garlic, carrot, parsley, tomato puree and spices, then pan‑fried until golden and crispy.

2 hrs 55 minServes 4$3
International
Have Breakfast Ready in 60 Seconds Each Morning with these Freezer Friendly Breakfast Burritos
40

Have Breakfast Ready in 60 Seconds Each Morning with these Freezer Friendly Breakfast Burritos

High‑protein breakfast burritos made with lean turkey sausage, scrambled eggs, veggies, hash browns, and cheese. Perfect for meal‑prepping: freeze individually and reheat in 60‑75 seconds for a quick, nutritious start to the day.

1 hr 13 minServes 17$20
American
These Ninja Creami Recipes Will Change Your Life
34

These Ninja Creami Recipes Will Change Your Life

A low‑calorie, high‑protein ice cream made in a Ninja Creami (or any ice‑cream maker) that satisfies sweet cravings while supporting fat loss. Three flavor variations – Biscoff, M&M McFlurry, and Peanut Butter Oreo – share the same creamy base and can be prepared in under 30 minutes of active work, then frozen for 24 hours for perfect texture.

35 minServes 4$92
American
Leftovers? MAKE THESE Cheesy Potato Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes - Easy Griddle Side Dish!
28

Leftovers? MAKE THESE Cheesy Potato Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes - Easy Griddle Side Dish!

Turn leftover mashed potatoes into golden, cheesy potato cakes cooked on a griddle. Three methods are covered: straight on the griddle, using an egg mold with a panko crust, and fully dredged for extra crunch. Serve with a tangy jalapeño‑pickle sauce and optional bacon for a hearty snack or main dish.

1 hr 40 minServes 4$13
American
Can these AIR FRYER CHURROS beat out the originals?
3

Can these AIR FRYER CHURROS beat out the originals?

Fluffy yeast‑raised donuts cooked in an air fryer for a lighter texture, then tossed in a sweet cinnamon‑sugar coating. This recipe compares the air‑fryer method to traditional deep‑frying, delivering a crisp exterior and soft interior without the excess oil.

4 hrs 35 minServes 12$2
American