Churros are such a fun treat. People young and old enjoy these crispy golden treats at fairs or amusement parks. Most churros have the classic cinnamon-sugar sprinkle on top. Then of course, you have those that take their churros to the next level with a chocolate dipping sauce. Churros and chocolate go together like popcorn and a movie, and today I’m going to show you how to make churros at home! 

Traditional Spanish churros came about as a way shepherds could enjoy a convenient, portable treat while up in the high country. However, most churros today contain gluten and come deep fried. The ingredients can cause gut and immune issues, which is why I’m bringing a healthier alternative. 

These gluten free churros are perfect for anyone on the autoimmune spectrum™. Made without inflammatory gluten or oils, these churros offer a healthier, yet equally indulgent, twist on a classic dessert. The chocolate sauce even adds a burst of protein thanks to my Double Chocolate Paleo Protein powder! These dairy free churros are perfect for holidays or New Year's Eve parties.

Gluten Free Churros

Most of today’s baked goods contain wheat gluten. This protein can be difficult to digest in some people. It also mimics other proteins that the body sees as an enemy. Gluten is one of the two foods I always recommend to avoid. These gluten free churros use almond and cassava flour in place of wheat flour. You still get that crispy, golden exterior while keeping a soft interior.

You may be hesitant to use almond or cassava flour for your gluten free churros. Won’t they turn out stiff and dry? Not to worry, the tapioca starch helps add that fluffy texture to your churros. You still get the same taste and texture of traditional churros!

Coconut Sugar Benefits

You probably noticed I use coconut sugar to sprinkle on top of the gluten free churros. Isn’t sugar bad for you? Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index than other refined sugars. This means it won’t spike your blood sugars up as much. It also contains more nutrients than other sugars. The potassium and magnesium found in coconut sugar supports healthy fluid balance. Coconut sugar also supports healthy immune function with its vitamin C and zinc content. 

Coconut sugar has a naturally brown hue and slight caramel flavor. This makes the perfect topping for these dairy free churros. Cinnamon also adds a few health benefits. This ancient spice supports healthy inflammation levels in the body. It also supports your immune system’s ability to fight off microbes, bacteria, and viruses. 

There are many coconut sugar benefits. If you’re looking for a sugar alternative that’s healthier,  coconut sugar is for you. You can still enjoy healthier desserts without sacrificing the taste! 

Chocolate Dipping Sauce

Some people dip their churros in raspberry or butterscotch sauce. However, these often contain artificial dyes, flavors, and inflammatory ingredients. That’s why I choose a rich, chocolate dipping sauce. The churros and chocolate combination goes so well together. Did I mention this chocolate dipping sauce only uses three ingredients? Simply combine melted coconut oil, vegan dark chocolate, and a scoop of my Double Chocolate Paleo Protein powder. 

This decadent chocolate dipping sauce comes together in minutes. Not only can you dip your gluten free churros in it, but you can also drizzle it onto your favorite dairy free ice cream. If you like to experiment with different flavors, you’re in luck! Try adding a pinch of sea salt or cinnamon to kick the flavor up a notch. 

Chocolate Protein Powder

Not all chocolate dipping sauces support healthy muscles, skin, and energy. Adding chocolate protein powder to the dipping sauce not only enriches the flavor, but it also adds a nutritional boost as well!

Protein is the unsung hero of health and vitality. Your cells use protein for metabolism, replication, and repair. It plays a role in nearly every chemical reaction in your body. As you age, you lose muscle mass. This can lead to increased risk for injury and mortality. Adding chocolate protein powder supports healthy muscle mass and strength. It also encourages tissue regeneration, which slows down as you age. 

Getting enough quality protein can be a challenge in today’s world. My Double Chocolate Paleo Protein powder makes it easier with 21 grams of protein in every scoop! Made using grass-fed, pasture-raised beef collagen, you get the purest and richest protein to support your gut, skin, and muscles. 

What many people don’t realize is that some protein powder molecules are too complex. This makes it hard for the gut to break down and digest. This hydrolyzed formula maximizes digestion and absorption. You get superior nutrition and flavor in every scoop!

Pro tip: If you really want to create an unforgettable churro experience, try adding the chocolate protein powder to the batter. That way you get chocolate gluten free churros — chocolate lovers unite!

How To Make Churros At Home

Ready to roll up your sleeves and make some delicious churros? Me too! Preheat your oven to 400F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Next, we’re going to whip up the gluten free churro batter. In a small saucepan, bring one cup of water, coconut oil, vanilla, and coconut sugar to a gentle boil. Once the sugar dissolves, remove the saucepan from heat.  

Add the almond flour, cassava flour, and tapioca starch to the saucepan. Next, add the cinnamon and sea salt. Mix all the ingredients together until a soft dough forms. 

Pull out a piping bag with a large star tip. Scoop the dough out into a piping bag. Next, pipe the dough out onto the lined backing sheet. Aim for 4-5 inch pieces. Brush each piece with melted coconut oil. While we aren’t going to be frying these gluten free churros, bruising them with coconut oil allows for that golden-brown finish we’re after. 

Bake at 400F for 15-18 minutes. You’ll know the dairy free churros are ready when they’re firm and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. You still want the churros to be warm when you roll them in the cinnamon-coconut sugar mixture. The warmth helps the cinnamon-coconut sugar stick, giving it that classic churro coating.

Making healthy desserts has never been easier. Now you can enjoy a taste of Spanish culture with these golden, crispy, gluten free churros. The churros and chocolate combo adds a decadent twist to the mix. You can also create other scrumptious treats using my Double Chocolate Paleo Protein. Try adding them to your favorite gluten free brownies for a protein-packed dessert. Or, start your day with a burst of chocolatey goodness by adding it to this Tigernut Waffles recipe!