Add a burst of sunshine to your churro experience with this Citrus Zest Churro Recipe! This vibrant variation infuses the classic churro with the refreshing flavors of fresh lemon or orange zest. Get ready for a light, delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Citrus Zest Churros
Equipment
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Zester or grater
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Water
- 1/4 Cup Unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 Tbsp Granulated sugar
- 1/4 Tsp Salt
- 1 Cup All-purpose flour
- 1 Large Egg
- 1 Tbsp Finely grated lemon or orange zest (about 1 lemon or orange)
- Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
- 1/2 Cup Granulated sugar
- 1 Tsp Ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a saucepan, heat water, butter, sugar, and salt over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Add Flour & Zest: Reduce heat to low. Immediately add flour and citrus zest. Stir vigorously until the dough pulls away from the sides and forms a ball.
- Incorporate Egg: Remove pan from heat. Transfer dough to a large bowl and let cool for 5 minutes. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
- Heat Oil: Fill a deep fryer or large pot with 2 inches of oil. Heat to 360°F (180°C). Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
- Pipe and Fry: Transfer dough to the pastry bag. Pipe 4-5 inch ropes of dough directly into the hot oil. Use a knife or scissors to cut the dough. Fry in batches until golden brown, flipping once.
- Drain and Coat: Remove churros with tongs or a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Immediately roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Notes
- Citrus Choice: Use either lemon or orange zest, or a combination for a more complex flavor.
- Zest Only: Avoid grating the white pith of the citrus, as it can be bitter.
- Oil Temperature: Monitor oil temperature throughout frying to ensure consistent results.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in batches to prevent churros from sticking and to maintain oil temperature.
Nutrition
Citrus Zest Churros offer a delightfully refreshing twist on the classic. The subtle citrus notes complement the crispy exterior and tender interior perfectly, creating a bright and flavorful churro experience. Whether enjoyed on their own or with a touch of sweetness, these churros are sure to brighten your day.
Serve these zesty churros with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of citrus glaze, or alongside fresh berries for a delightful dessert combination. Discover your favorite citrus variation and create your own unique take on the Citrus Zest Churro.
Ready to expand your churro repertoire? Explore our collection of exciting ingredient variations and creative dipping options. And don’t forget to check out our selection of fun churro-themed merchandise for the ultimate enthusiast!