Churros have a special place in Spanish tradition. Every fiesta (and there are lots of fiestas at the Canary Islands) has at least a churro stand, filling the air with the sweet scent of sugar and fried dough. Churros trace their origins to the Iberian Peninsula, with both Spain and Portugal claiming their invention. The most popular theory suggests that Spanish shepherds, inspired by the Chinese youtiao, created churros as a portable, fried dough snack. By the 17th century, churros had become a staple in Spanish cuisine, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a late-night treat.
The treat spread to Latin America and beyond through Spanish colonization, evolving into a beloved street food worldwide. Today, churros are a symbol of celebration, comfort, and indulgence, found everywhere from city markets to home kitchens.
Churros around the world
- Spain: The classic churro, often straight and long, paired with thick hot chocolate.
- Mexico: Churros are sometimes filled with cajeta (caramelized goat’s milk) or chocolate.
- Argentina/Uruguay: Churros are commonly filled with dulce de leche.
- Philippines: Churros are a popular merienda (afternoon snack), sometimes twisted and coated in sugar.
- USA: Churros are a fairground favorite, often dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with chocolate or fruit dips.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy churros? Have you ever tried making them at home? Here’s a base recipe that you can customize.
