Churros originated in Spain as a simple fried dough treat, traditionally sold by street vendors and enjoyed with thick hot chocolate. They have become a staple breakfast and snack across Spanish‑speaking countries and are often associated with festivals and fairs.

In Spain, churros are usually plain and served with chocolate. In Latin America, they may be filled with dulce de leche or rolled in sugar. Some regions add orange zest or use a denser dough for a chewier texture.

In Spain, churros are typically served hot, dusted with coarse sugar, and dipped into a thick, rich hot chocolate called "chocolate a la taza". They are often enjoyed for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

Churros are popular at fairs, carnivals, and during the early morning hours after a night out. They are also a common treat during Christmas markets and family gatherings.

Traditional churros use all‑purpose flour, water, butter, salt, eggs, and a pinch of sugar. Substitutes like gluten‑free flour or plant‑based butter can be used, but they change the texture and flavor slightly.

Serve churros alongside a thick hot chocolate, café con leche, or a glass of sweet sherry. They also complement savory tapas like jamón serrano for a sweet‑savory contrast.

Common errors include frying at the wrong oil temperature, over‑mixing the dough, and overcrowding the pot. Each mistake can lead to soggy, under‑cooked, or burnt churros.

The stand mixer with a paddle attachment ensures the dough is evenly incorporated and reaches the glossy, silky texture needed for proper puffing. Hand‑mixing can leave lumps and uneven egg distribution.

Yes. Pipe the raw churro strips onto parchment and freeze them. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra seconds. Cooked churros can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few hours, but they are best served fresh.

The YouTube channel Preppy Kitchen, hosted by John Kanell, specializes in clear, step‑by‑step home cooking tutorials that focus on classic comfort foods and approachable techniques for everyday cooks.

Preppy Kitchen emphasizes precise temperature control, such as using a candy thermometer for frying, and breaks down each step with practical tips, making traditionally tricky recipes like churros accessible to home cooks, unlike many channels that skip these details.