These heart-shaped churros are a delightful twist on the classic treat, perfect for special occasions like Valentine's Day or any moment you want to add a touch of sweetness. With a crispy exterior and a soft, airy interior, these churros are coated in cinnamon sugar and served with a rich chocolate sauce for dipping. They're easy to make and sure to impress your loved ones with both their taste and charming shape.

Ingredients

For the Churros:

• 1 cup water
  
  

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  
  

• 1/4 teaspoon salt
  
  

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  
  

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
  
  

• 2 large eggs
  
  

• Vegetable oil, for frying
  
  

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  
  

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  
  

For the Chocolate Sauce:

• 100g (3.5 oz) milk chocolate or dark chocolate
  
  

• 125 ml (1/2 cup) double or whipping cream
  
  

• Pinch of chili powder (optional)
  
  

Directions

1. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar: In a shallow bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
   
   

2. Make the Churro Dough:
   
   

   • In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
     
     

   • Remove from heat and immediately add the all-purpose flour, stirring vigorously until the mixture forms a ball.
     
     

   • Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook the dough for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
     
     

   • Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for 10 minutes.
     
     

   • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky.

3. Shape the Churros:
   
   

   • Fit a large piping bag with a large closed star tip.
     
     

   • Spoon the dough into the piping bag.
     
     

   • On a piece of parchment paper, pipe heart shapes about 4 inches wide.
     
     

   • Let the piped hearts rest for a few minutes to firm up slightly.
     
     

4. Heat the Oil:
   
   

   • In a deep pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
     
     

   • To test the oil, drop a small piece of dough into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
     
     

5. Fry the Churros:
   
   

   • Carefully lower the piped heart shapes into the hot oil, using a piece of parchment paper to assist.
     
     

   • Fry in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
     
     

   • Fry each batch for about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
     
     

   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the churros and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
     
     

6. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:
   
   

   • While the churros are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.

7. Prepare the Chocolate Sauce:
   
   

   • In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and double cream.
     
     

   • Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) and stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
     
     

   • If desired, stir in a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick.
     
     

8. Serve:
   
   

   • Arrange the heart-shaped churros on a serving plate.
     
     

   • Serve warm with the chocolate sauce on the side for dipping.
     
     

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 200 kcal
  
  

• Total Fat: 10g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 3g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 30mg
  
  

• Sodium: 50mg
  
  

• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  
  

• Dietary Fiber: 1g
  
  

• Sugars: 15g
  
  

• Protein: 2g