Vegan Heart-Shaped Churros
These vegan heart-shaped churros are rich, buttery, and perfectly crisp on the outside with a soft, chewy center—just like traditional churros. The secret is using more vegan butter and oil than most recipes, which creates authentic texture and flavor. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Churro Dough
- 1 cup water
- 4 tbsp vegan butter stick-style recommended
- 2 tbsp neutral oil avocado, vegetable, or canola
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
For Frying
- Neutral oil of choice avocado, vegetable, or canola
Cinnamon Sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
Heat the base
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine water, vegan butter, oil, sugar, and salt. Heat until the butter is fully melted and the mixture just begins to simmer.
Add the flour
- Reduce heat to low. Add the flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough pulls away from the sides and forms a smooth, glossy ball.
Check dough texture (important!)
- The dough should be soft, rich, and pipeable—not dry. If it feels stiff, stir in 1–2 teaspoons additional oil.
Cool and pipe
- Remove from heat and let the dough cool for 5–10 minutes. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe heart shapes onto parchment paper.
Fry
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry churros in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and crisp.
Coat
- Remove churros and drain briefly on paper towels. While warm, roll in cinnamon sugar until fully coated.
Notes
Notes
- Do not reduce the butter or oil—this is essential for chewy, authentic churros
- Dough should be glossy and soft, not crumbly
- Best enjoyed fresh and warm
- Reheat leftovers in an air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes