If you love the classic taste of churros but want something bite-sized and easy to snack on, these sweet and salty churro bites are perfect for you. Made with crispy oyster crackers, coated in buttery cinnamon sugar, and baked to golden perfection, they deliver the same satisfying crunch and warm spice as traditional churros—without the need for deep frying.
This recipe is an ideal party snack, a delicious addition to a dessert spread, or simply a sweet treat to enjoy with coffee, hot chocolate, or ice cream. Plus, the balance of sweet cinnamon, rich butter, and a touch of sea salt makes these bites utterly addictive.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
✔️ Quick and Easy – No deep frying required, just a simple bake.
✔️ Perfectly Crunchy – Oyster crackers absorb the buttery cinnamon mixture and crisp up beautifully.
✔️ Customizable – Adjust the sweetness, spice level, or add extra flavors like nuts or vanilla.
✔️ Great for Sharing – These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a giftable snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 cups oyster crackers – The base of the recipe, giving a crispy yet light texture.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Helps coat the crackers and adds rich flavor.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Creates the classic sweet, caramelized churro taste.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – Provides the warm, signature churro flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt – Enhances both the sweetness and the crunchy texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and sea salt until well combined.
3. Coat the Crackers
Add the oyster crackers to the bowl and toss gently, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the buttery cinnamon mixture.
4. Bake Until Golden
Spread the coated crackers onto the lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the crackers are golden and crispy.
5. Cool and Serve
Remove the tray from the oven and let the churro bites cool completely. This step allows the coating to set, creating a crunchy texture. Once cooled, serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Flavor Variations & Pro Tips
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of pumpkin spice for a unique twist.
- Vanilla Infusion – Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the butter for a richer flavor.
- Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the crackers before baking.
- Caramelized Sweetness – Swap granulated sugar for brown sugar or coconut sugar for a deeper caramelized taste.
- Dipping Ideas – Pair with warm chocolate sauce, dulce de leche, or honey for an extra indulgent treat.
Perfect Pairings & Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy as a standalone snack with coffee or tea.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for a crunchy-sweet contrast.
- Add to a charcuterie board with cheeses, nuts, and fruits for a mix of sweet and savory flavors.
- Use as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal for a churro-inspired breakfast.
Final Thoughts
These sweet and salty churro bites are the ultimate snack for any occasion. Whether you're craving something crunchy, cinnamony, and satisfying or need an easy-to-make party treat, this recipe has you covered. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a batch of irresistible, crispy churro-flavored bites that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Make a batch today and experience the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy goodness in every bite!