As the aroma of sweet, doughy churros wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but smile at the little bursts of joy they've brought to my family over the years. Today, I'm excited to share my delightful recipe for Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella, a fun twist on a classic favorite that’s perfect for lazy afternoons or casual gatherings. These little bites not only whip up in just 30 minutes, but they also promise to be a crowd-pleaser with their blend of crunchy nuts and gooey Nutella filling. Trust me, the combination of warm churro bites and melted chocolate-hazelnut goodness is something everyone will adore. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game? Let's dive into the deliciousness!
Why Are These Churro Bites Irresistible?
Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous cravings.
Decadent Filling: Each bite is filled with Nutella, ensuring a satisfyingly gooey center that chocolate lovers crave.
Crunchy Twist: The addition of chopped nuts offers a delightful crunch, adding a unique texture to these beloved treats.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties or family gatherings, these churro bites are sure to impress guests and satisfy sweet tooths!
Versatile: You can easily switch up the nuts or add different spices, making it a versatile delight for any occasion!
Nutty Churro Bites Ingredients
• Get ready to create magic with these Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella!
For the Churro Dough
- All-purpose flour – a must-have for that perfect dough texture.
- Granulated sugar – adds just the right amount of sweetness to this lovely treat.
- Baking powder – helps the churro bites puff up beautifully when fried.
- Salt – enhances flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Water – acts as the base for making the dough come together.
- Large eggs – provides richness and moisture, creating a tender bite.
- Vanilla extract – infuses a lovely aroma and depth to the dough.
For the Nutella Filling
- Nutella – the star ingredient, bringing a luxurious, gooey filling to each bite!
For the Coating
- Ground cinnamon – offers warm spice that elevates the flavor profile.
- Chopped nuts (hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans) – add delightful crunchiness and nutty goodness to each bite.
For Frying
- Oil – choose a neutral oil for frying, ensuring the churro bites turn crispy without overwhelming flavors.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella
Step 1: Prepare the Churro Dough
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 2 ½ tablespoons of granulated sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of all-purpose flour until the dough forms a cohesive ball, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
Step 2: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Allow the churro dough to cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Then, add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until the dough is smooth and glossy, which should take another 3-5 minutes of vigorous stirring.
Step 3: Heat the Oil for Frying
In a deep frying pan, heat about 2-3 inches of neutral oil to 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to gauge the temperature, ensuring the oil is hot enough for frying. This will create that perfectly crispy exterior while preventing the churro bites from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Pipe and Fry the Churro Bites
Fill a piping bag fitted with a large round tip with the churro dough. Carefully pipe small rounds, about 1-inch in diameter, directly into the hot oil. Fry the churro bites for approximately 2-3 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they achieve a golden-brown color and are puffed up beautifully.
Step 5: Drain and Cool
Once golden brown, carefully remove the churro bites from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. Allow them to drain for a minute or two, ensuring any excess oil is absorbed while you prepare the Nutella filling.
Step 6: Fill the Churro Bites with Nutella
Using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, gently insert the tip into one end of each churro bite. Squeeze a generous amount of Nutella into each one, creating a rich molten center that's sure to delight every bite.
Step 7: Coat in Cinnamon and Nuts
In a shallow bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of cinnamon with ¼ cup of your choice of chopped nuts. Roll each filled churro bite in this mixture while they are still slightly warm. This final touch adds a warm spice and delightful crunch, ensuring your Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella are irresistible!
How to Store and Freeze Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella
Room Temperature: Store leftover churro bites in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their softness and ensure they stay fresh.
Fridge: If you wish to keep them longer, you can refrigerate the churro bites for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the churro bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once solid. They can be kept for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To reheat frozen Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warm through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella Twist
Feel the freedom to make these Nutty Churro Bites uniquely your own with these fun and delicious variations!
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, keeping the same texture and flavors intact.
- Vegan: Use aquafaba (chickpea brine) in place of eggs and substitute Nutella with a dairy-free chocolate spread.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon mixture for a delightful heat that contrasts with the sweetness.
- Nut-Free: Substitute chopped nuts with crushed seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a kid-friendly option.
- Sweetened Chocolate: Instead of Nutella, try filling with melted dark chocolate mixed with a touch of vanilla for a richer taste.
- Coconut Bliss: Roll the churro bites in shredded coconut after frying for a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
- Zesty Citrus: Incorporate a bit of orange or lemon zest into the churro dough for a refreshing citrusy flavor surprise.
- Matcha Magic: Mix matcha powder into the sugar coating for an earthy flavor and a stunning green hue that wows!
Feel free to mix and match these options to create Nutty Churro Bites you’ll crave again and again!
Make Ahead Options
These Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time for those busy weeknights! You can prepare the churro dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the first two steps of the recipe, let the dough cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to indulge, heat the oil and fry the churro bites fresh; this keeps them crispy and delicious. Additionally, you can fill them with Nutella and coat them with cinnamon and nuts right before serving to maintain that satisfying crunch. Trust me, they’ll be just as delightful as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella
Indulging in these delightful churro bites is a celebration, and pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your experience to new heights.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm, rich hot chocolate complements the sweetness of the churro bites, creating a contrast that feels like a cozy hug with every sip.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coolness of vanilla ice cream balances the warm churro bites perfectly, making each bite a delicious experience in flavor and texture.
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Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries like strawberries or raspberries can cut through the sweetness, adding a refreshing element to your plate that delights the palate.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the churro bites enhances their sweetness while providing a luxurious finish that feels indulgent.
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Coffee or Espresso: A bold cup of coffee or espresso offers a delightful contrast to the sugary churros, enhancing the overall enjoyment in a blissful cafe-style experience.
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Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: For those who can’t get enough of that warm cinnamon sweetness, serving these alongside cinnamon sugar doughnuts creates a fun, shareable dessert platter.
Expert Tips for Nutty Churro Bites
Perfect Temperature: Ensure your oil is at exactly 350°F (175°C) for perfectly crispy churro bites. Too hot, and they burn; too cool, and they absorb excess oil.
Churro Dough Texture: The dough should be smooth and free of lumps. If it's too thick, add a tablespoon of water; too runny? Just a bit more flour will help!
Nutella Filling: Use a piping bag with a small round tip for accurate filling. This helps ensure each churro bite has just the right amount of delicious Nutella.
Avoid Greasiness: After frying, let the churro bites drain well on paper towels. This keeps them crisp and prevents them from becoming greasy.
Creative Coatings: Feel free to personalize your Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella! Try adding other spices or even chocolate sprinkles to the cinnamon-nut mixture for extra fun!
Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right nuts for my churro bites?
Absolutely! The best nuts to use for Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella are hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans. These nuts not only enhance the flavor but also add an exciting crunch. If you're looking for an alternative, you can even consider walnuts or pistachios for a different flavor profile!
How do I store leftover churro bites?
Very simple! If you have any leftover churro bites, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you'd like to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge where they’ll stay fresh for about 5 days. Just make sure to reheat them in the oven to restore their delightful crispiness!
Can I freeze the churro bites? How?
Certainly! To freeze Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella, start by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours or until the churro bites are solid. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll be good for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to warm through.
What should I do if my churro bites absorb too much oil?
If your churro bites are absorbing oil and becoming greasy, check that your oil temperature is at 350°F (175°C). If they’re cooked at too low a temperature, they absorb more oil. Also, ensure you drain them properly on paper towels after frying, as this helps eliminate excess grease. For next time, you may want to fry in smaller batches, which can help maintain that perfect temperature!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you have guests with allergies, be mindful of the ingredients in Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella. Since this recipe contains flour, eggs, and nuts, it is not gluten-free or suitable for those with nut allergies. For a gluten-free option, you could try using gluten-free all-purpose flour, but the texture may differ slightly. Always check your Nutella for potential allergens too!
Can I make the churro dough ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the churro dough a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to fry, just bring the dough back to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before piping and frying, ensuring the best results!
Irresistibly Indulgent Nutty Churro Bites with Nutella
Equipment
- medium saucepan
- piping bag
- Deep frying pan
Ingredients
Churro Dough
- 1 cup water
- 2.5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Nutella Filling
- 1 jar Nutella for filling
Coating
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 cup chopped nuts hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans
Frying
- 2-3 inches oil neutral oil for frying
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the churro dough: In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, then stir in flour until a cohesive dough forms.
- Incorporate eggs and vanilla: Let the dough cool slightly, add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract until smooth.
- Heat the oil for frying: In a deep frying pan, heat neutral oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Pipe and fry the churro bites: Fill a piping bag with churro dough and pipe small rounds into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown.
- Drain and cool: Remove churro bites and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Fill the churro bites with Nutella: Use a piping bag to insert Nutella into each churro bite.
- Coat in cinnamon and nuts: Roll each filled churro bite in a mixture of cinnamon and chopped nuts while still warm.
