Differences in Recipes and Presentation

Churros are beloved around the world, but did you know that not all churros are created equal? Depending on where you find them, churros can have distinct differences in flavour, texture, and presentation. Let’s explore the differences between Spanish, Mexican, and American churros and see what makes each variety special!

Spanish Churros: Simple and Traditional

Spanish churros are the original version of this beloved treat and have been enjoyed for centuries.

Key Features:

• Simple Ingredients – Made with just flour, water, and salt (no sugar or butter in the dough).
• Thin and Sometimes Star-Shaped – Piped using a star-shaped nozzle for that classic ridged texture.
• Crunchy and Slightly Chewy – Fried until golden and crispy.
• Often Served with Chocolate – Traditionally paired with a thick, rich chocolate dipping sauce (chocolate caliente).

How They’re Enjoyed: In Spain, churros are often eaten for breakfast alongside a cup of thick hot chocolate or café con leche. Some are dusted lightly with sugar, but they’re generally not as sweet as other variations.

Mexican Churros: Sweeter and More Flavourful

Mexican churros take inspiration from the Spanish version but add extra sweetness and flavour.

Key Features:

• Rich Dough – Uses flour, water, salt, and typically vanilla extract, butter and eggs for a softer, ‘custardy’ interior.
• Coated in Cinnamon Sugar – After frying, they are generously rolled in a mix of sugar and cinnamon.
• Slightly Thicker – Often piped with a star nozzle but slightly chunkier than Spanish churros.
• Served with Different Dips – Commonly enjoyed with dulce de leche, cajeta (goat’s milk caramel), or chocolate sauce.

How They’re Enjoyed: Mexican churros are a popular street food, often sold from food carts and markets, served fresh and warm.

American Churros: Bigger and More Decadent

In the United States, churros have taken on a life of their own, often found in theme parks, fairs, and fast-food restaurants.

Key Features:

• Larger and Fluffier – American churros are often longer and thicker, making them extra satisfying.
• Sweet & Simple Dough – will typically use less butter, less sugar and fewer or no eggs compared to Mexican Churros so they end up with a crunchier exterior.
• Rolled in Sugar & Cinnamon – Just like Mexican churros, American ones are coated in a sweet mixture.
• Diverse Fillings and Toppings – Filled with chocolate, caramel, or cream, and sometimes dipped in icing or drizzled with sauces.

How They’re Enjoyed: American churros are the ultimate fun fair snack, commonly served in theme parks (like Disneyland!), food trucks, and carnivals.

Which Churro is the Best?

It all depends on what you’re craving!

• Love tradition? Try Spanish churros with hot chocolate.
• Want a sweeter, spiced treat? Go for Mexican churros coated in cinnamon sugar.
• Prefer a decadent dessert? American-style stuffed or coated churros might be your favourite!

Whichever you choose, one thing is for sure – churros are always delicious!

Get them whenever you want – see our guide to the ways you can make Churros at home.