Mexican Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Churro Bites

Churros have long brightened Mexican street corners with their crisp ridges and cinnamon-sugar dusting. These bite-sized versions tuck tender Honeycrisp apple into a simple fried batter, finished with a warm drizzle of dulce de leche.

Serves 4 · 15 min prep · 20 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 395 cal
• 5g protein
• 52g carbs
• 19g fat

Every recipe here is free to read.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 large Honeycrisp apple
• 3 cups vegetable oil for frying
• 1/3 cup dulce de leche or caramel sauce

Instructions

1. 1In a mixing bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and half of the cinnamon until evenly combined.
2. 2In another bowl whisk the milk, egg, and vanilla. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until a thick, sticky batter forms; do not overmix.
3. 3Peel, core, and cut the apple into ½-inch cubes. Fold the apple cubes gently into the batter so every piece is coated.
4. 4In a shallow bowl mix the remaining cinnamon with the granulated sugar; set the coating aside near the stove.
5. 5Pour oil into a deep 10-inch skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 1½ inches and heat over medium to 350°F; a small drop of batter should sizzle immediately.
6. 6Working in batches of 6 to 8, drop heaping teaspoonfuls of apple batter into the hot oil. Fry 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning once, until deep golden brown and puffed.
7. 7Transfer bites with a slotted spoon to a paper-towel-lined plate for 10 seconds, then immediately toss in the cinnamon-sugar while still hot so the coating sticks.
8. 8Serve warm piled on a platter with a small bowl of dulce de leche for dipping; the crisp exterior, soft apple center, and cinnamon sugar capture late-summer fair vibes at home.