Ingredients

2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 vanilla bean , halved lengthwise , seeds scraped
1 lb bittersweet chocolate , coarsely chopped
1 quart canola oil
1 cup water
1/2 cup unsalted butter , cut into pieces
1 1/4 cups sugar
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour ( can sub 1/4 cup whole wheat flour to make healthier )
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon ground anise seed
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3 large eggs
Churros are a popular dessert in Spanish and Latin American cuisine. These fried dough pastries are a crunchy and sweet treat that are typically served warm and topped with sugar or cinnamon. In this recipe, we've added a spiced sugar mixture to the churros to give them a unique depth of flavor. Paired with a rich bittersweet chocolate dipping sauce, these churros are sure to please any sweet tooth. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate as a decadent dessert or snack.

Instructions

1.In a large saucepan, combine the milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla bean seeds and cook over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture just begins to simmer.
2.Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let sit for 1-2 minutes to melt, then whisk until smooth.
3.In a large saucepan, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F.
4.In a separate saucepan, combine the water, butter, sugar, and salt and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5.Remove from heat and add the flour, cinnamon, anise seed, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture forms a smooth, sticky dough.
6.Add the eggs one at a time, stirring until each one is fully incorporated.
7.Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
8.Carefully pipe 4-6 inch strips of dough into the hot oil, using scissors to cut the dough from the piping bag.
9.Fry the churros until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
10.Remove the churros with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
11.Combine the sugar, cinnamon, and anise seed in a shallow bowl and stir to combine.
12.Roll the warm churros in the spiced sugar mixture to coat.
13.Serve the churros warm with the chocolate dipping sauce on the side.

PROS

Crispy and sweet, churros are a classic treat that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

The spiced sugar adds depth of flavor, while the bittersweet chocolate dipping sauce provides a rich complement to the crunchy churros.

CONS

Churros are deep-fried, which makes them high in calories and fat.

They should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While churros are not particularly healthy, they can be enjoyed as an occasional treat in moderation.
The cinnamon and anise seed in this recipe have been associated with supporting healthy digestion and reducing inflammation.

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