How to make PERFECT CHURROS with Hot Chocolate

Churros with hot chocolate are a classic and indulgent treat, perfect for any time you want something warm and comforting. Here's a recipe to make **perfect churros** and a rich **hot chocolate** for dipping.

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### **Churros Recipe**
#### **Ingredients**:
**For the churros**:
- 1 cup (250 ml) water
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegetable oil)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- Vegetable oil for frying

**For coating**:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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#### **Instructions**:

1. **Prepare the dough**:
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Remove from heat and immediately add the flour. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a smooth dough and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Let the dough cool for 5-7 minutes, then mix in the egg until fully incorporated. The dough should be smooth and pipeable.

2. **Heat the oil**:
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or pan to 350°F (175°C).

3. **Pipe the churros**:
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped nozzle.
- Pipe 4–6-inch strips of dough into the hot oil, cutting them off with scissors. Fry in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.

4. **Fry the churros**:
- Fry each churro for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

5. **Coat with sugar**:
- Mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Roll the warm churros in the mixture until coated.

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### **Hot Chocolate Recipe**
#### **Ingredients**:
- 2 cups (500 ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (90 g) dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for a thicker consistency)

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#### **Instructions**:

1. **Heat the milk and cream**:
- In a saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until it just begins to steam (do not boil).

2. **Add the chocolate and cocoa**:
- Reduce the heat to low. Whisk in the chopped chocolate, cocoa powder, and sugar. Stir until smooth and fully melted.

3. **Thicken (optional)**:
- For a thicker hot chocolate, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and whisk it into the mixture. Heat until slightly thickened.

4. **Serve**:
- Pour the hot chocolate into cups and serve alongside the churros for dipping.

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### **Tips for Perfect Churros**:
- Ensure the oil temperature stays consistent for even frying.
- Pipe the dough directly into the oil for fresh, crispy churros.
- Adjust the sugar and cinnamon coating to your preference.

Enjoy your homemade churros with the rich hot chocolate! They’re perfect for sharing—or not. 😊