Kamado Grilled Churros with Cinnamon Sugar: A Smoky Twist on a Classic Mexican Dessert

Kamado Grilled Churros with Cinnamon Sugar: A Smoky Twist on a Classic Mexican Dessert

Few treats spark joy like churros-those golden, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside pastries dusted in cinnamon sugar. Traditionally fried, churros are a beloved Mexican dessert recipe found at fairs, fiestas, and street markets around the world. But did you know you can make irresistible churros right on your kamado grill? This easy churro recipe delivers all the nostalgic flavor and crunch, with a hint of smokiness that only a grill can provide.

Grilling churros on a kamado grill, such as the Vessils POCO Grill, is a fun, creative way to enjoy this classic dessert at home. The method is simple: pipe or shape the dough, grill over indirect heat, then roll in cinnamon sugar for the ultimate grilled dessert recipe. Whether you’re hosting a backyard fiesta or just craving something sweet, kamado grill churros are guaranteed to impress.

In this guide, we’ll cover the ingredients, step-by-step dough preparation, grilling techniques, serving ideas, and expert tips for perfect results. Let’s fire up the grill and get started!

Ingredients for Kamado Grilled Churros

For the Churro Dough:

  • 1 cup water

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 3 large eggs

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Optional:

  • Cooking spray or neutral oil (for greasing the grill or pizza stone)

Preparing the Churro Dough

  1. Combine Water, Butter, and Salt:
    In a medium saucepan, bring the water, butter, and salt to a boil over medium heat.

  2. Add Flour:
    Reduce heat to low. Add the flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides (about 1–2 minutes).

  3. Cool Slightly and Add Eggs:
    Remove the pan from heat and let the dough cool for 5 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The dough should be smooth, shiny, and pipeable-thick but not runny.

Tip: If the dough is too stiff, add a teaspoon of water. If too loose, let it sit for a few minutes to firm up.

Grilling the Churros

Grill Setup

  • Set up your kamado grill for indirect heat, targeting a medium temperature of 350–400°F. For best results, use a ceramic pizza stone or a heavy-duty baking sheet to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

  • If you’re new to grilling desserts, consider reviewing basic char-grilling techniques.

Grilling Instructions

  1. Shape the Churros:
    Spoon the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe 4–6 inch lengths onto a parchment-lined tray. Alternatively, shape by hand into rustic logs.

  2. Grill the Churros:
    Transfer churros (with parchment) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Close the grill lid and cook for 12–15 minutes, turning once or twice, until golden brown and slightly crisp. Remove parchment after a few minutes to allow direct contact with the stone.

  3. Check for Doneness:
    Churros should be puffed and golden. Use an instant-read thermometer if needed-the internal temperature should reach at least 190°F for cooked dough.

Tip: Use a light coating of oil or spray to prevent sticking.

Coating and Serving the Churros

  1. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar:
    Mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish.

  2. Coat the Churros:
    While churros are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.

  3. Serving Suggestions:

    • Serve churros warm, straight off the grill.

    • Pair with chocolate sauce, caramel, or Mexican hot chocolate for dipping.

    • Enjoy as a dessert or a festive snack at your next backyard gathering.

Tips for Grilling Churros

  • Preheat your grill and pizza stone thoroughly for even cooking.

  • Lightly oil the stone to prevent sticking.

  • Grill at a steady medium heat for the best crisp-tender texture.

  • Serve churros immediately for maximum crunch and flavor.

Variations

  • Add vanilla extract, orange zest, or a pinch of nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor.

  • Try different coatings: powdered sugar, cocoa powder, or a blend of cinnamon and cardamom.

  • Experiment with other grilled desserts like fruit skewers or grilled brownies-your kamado grill is more versatile than you think!

A Sweet Fiesta

Ready to wow your friends and family with kamado grill churros? This easy churro recipe is the perfect way to bring a taste of Mexico to your backyard-no deep fryer required! Share your grilled churros creations on social media and tag us; we love seeing your sweet successes.


Looking for another dessert recipe? Try our Baked Chocolate Brownies on a Grill. Thinking about upgrading your grilling gear? Check out the latest kamado grills and must-have accessories like pizza stones and skewers. Fire up your grill and let the fiesta begin!