Homemade Churros with Chocolate Dipping Sauce

Ingredients

• Water (1 cup)
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup (1 stick))
• Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons (for dough) + 1/2 cup (for coating))
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
• All-purpose flour (1 cup)
• Eggs (2 large)
• Vegetable oil (for frying (approximately 2 cups))
• Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon)
• Dark chocolate (4 ounces, chopped)
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the butter is fully melted.
2. Remove the saucepan from heat and add the all-purpose flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture comes together, forming a ball that pulls away from the sides of the pan.
3. Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and gradually incorporate them into the dough, mixing well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
4. In a deep pan or heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C) for frying. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
5. Fill a piping bag fitted with a large star tip with the churro dough. Pipe 4-6 inch long churros into the hot oil, using scissors to cut them as you go.
6. Fry the churros until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
7. In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Roll the warm churros in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until they are fully coated.
8. For the chocolate dipping sauce, in a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate, allowing it to sit for 1-2 minutes. Stir until smooth and well combined.
9. Serve the churros warm with the rich chocolate dipping sauce on the side, and enjoy this delightful treat!