Dear Reader: These are extraordinary times we’re living in, and while we’ve always got an eye toward health and wellness, sometimes it’s not just about calories and fat grams. Self-care might look like an over-the-top carpet picnic in the living room, or sweet treats that aren’t normally a part of your diet. We believe that sometimes it’s OK to forego the status quo, and that’s why the Pandemic Pantry series includes some “yummy but maybe not for every day” recipes for you to try. Enjoy!
If there’s a silver lining to be had in this coronavirus pandemic, all the wonderful freebies we’ve been getting from our favorite places is one. The concept of “we are all in this together” has really been taken to heart by certain American institutions, and we’re grateful. It’s nice that, though this could easily have been a time of total radio silence, certain companies are joining the conversation. They’re saying “Hey, we know this is hard… we’re going through it too. And we know why you love us, so we’re sharing that love.” They know that while we may come for the snacks, we stay for something else. They know that by hanging with us now, we’ll come running back when we can. And they aren’t wrong.
Disney creates Moments of Magic for their fans in a variety of ways. Larger than life parades, exciting theme park rides, engaging characters, and the best churros this side of the Mexican border are just a few. And while we can’t recreate the whole Disney experience on our own, we can at least enjoy a snack while reminiscing on our time with Mickey. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 8 tablespoons butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon, divided
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 eggs
- 1 ½ cups vegetable or canola oil
- ½ cup sugar
Instructions
- Combine water, butter, salt, and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon in 1 ½-quart saucepan over medium heat. Bring this to a rolling boil.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Add in the flour and stir vigorously until it forms a ball. Remove from heat and let rest for 5-7 min.
- Add eggs, one at a time, stirring until combined. Set aside.
- Heat oil in a medium skillet or 1-quart saucepan over medium-high heat or until temperature reaches 350˚.
- Spoon the dough into a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe 1-inch strips of dough over the saucepan, cutting with a knife and dropping into hot oil. Repeat until churro bites fill the saucepan with room to fry.
- Fry the churro bites until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon or mesh strainer.
- Drain churro bites on a paper towel.
- Mix sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon in a medium bowl. Toss in churro bites until coated. Place on a serving plate and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
