Churros

Dessert

Item Rating: 59/100

1 serving (60 grams) contains 223 calories, 3.0 grams of protein, 12.0 grams of fat, and 25.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (240g)

Calories		892.0
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		48 g	61%
	Saturated Fat	8.0 g	40%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		0 mg	0%
Sodium		600 mg	26%
Total Carbohydrates		100.0 g	36%
	Dietary Fiber	4.0 g	14%
	Sugars	24 g
protein		12 g	24%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		40.0 mg	3%
Iron		2.0 mg	11%
Potassium		160.0 mg	3%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🧈 High saturated fat

Source of Calories

Fat: 432 cal (49.1%)

Protein: 48 cal (5.5%)

Carbs: 400 cal (45.5%)

About Churros

Churros are a deep-fried pastry traditionally enjoyed in Spanish and Portuguese cuisines, though variations exist worldwide. Made from a simple dough of flour, water, and sometimes eggs, churros are often coated with sugar and cinnamon after frying to add sweetness and flavor. A single churro contains approximately 371 calories, 5 grams of protein, 41 grams of carbohydrates, and 20 grams of fat. While churros are primarily considered a snack or dessert rather than a nutrient-dense food, their dietary fiber content (1.6g) and trace minerals like calcium (16.6mg) and iron (0.8mg) contribute to their nourishing profile, albeit modestly. As a high-carb and high-fat treat, moderation is advised when consuming churros, especially for those monitoring calorie intake. Traditionally served alongside coffee or hot chocolate, this pastry remains a popular indulgence in many cultures around the world.

Health Benefits

• The small amount of calcium (16.6mg per serving) contributes to bone health and proper neural function.
• Iron (0.8mg per serving) plays a minor role in supporting oxygen transportation and energy production within the body.
• Even though modest, the dietary fiber (1.6g per serving) can aid in digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten, eggs (sometimes), milk (if served with dips or prepared with dairy-based recipes)

Suitable for: Vegetarian diets

Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets, vegan diets (if eggs or milk are used), low-calorie, low-fat diets

Selection and Storage

Store churros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for crispiness.

Common Questions About Churros Nutrition

How many calories are in a churro, and what is its nutritional content?

A single churro contains approximately 371.67 calories. It provides 5 grams of protein, 41.67 grams of carbohydrates (including 10 grams of sugar and 1.67 grams of fiber), 20 grams of fat, and 250 milligrams of sodium. While they are energy-dense, churros are not a significant source of vitamins or minerals.

Can I eat churros on a keto or low-carb diet?

Churros are not suitable for keto or low-carb diets, as they contain 41.67 grams of carbohydrates per serving, which is significantly higher than the daily carb allowance for these diets. They are made from flour and sugar, making them incompatible with strict low-carb plans.

Are churros healthy or should I be concerned about eating them?

Churros are generally considered a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation. They are high in calories, carbohydrates, and fat, with limited nutritional value in terms of vitamins and minerals. Additionally, their high sugar content and being typically fried may contribute to increased calorie and fat intake over time, which could be a concern for weight management and heart health.

How many churros should I eat in a single serving?

As a dessert or snack, it is best to limit your portion size to one medium churro (roughly 371.67 calories). Consuming more than one can easily lead to excessive caloric intake, especially when paired with dipping sauces like chocolate or caramel.

How do churros compare to similar fried desserts like doughnuts?

Churros and doughnuts are both fried and often sweetened, but they differ slightly in nutritional content. Churros are typically lower in sugar than glazed doughnuts, which often contain 12-15 grams of sugar per serving compared to 10 grams for a churro. However, both are high in calories and fat, making them treats to be consumed sparingly.

Data Sources & Scientific References

1. Fats and Oils in Fried Foods: Nutritional Implications

   American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

   Discusses lipid content and the potential health issues associated with deep-fried foods like churros.

   View source →
2. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025: Limitations on Added Sugars

   U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS)

   Recommends reducing added sugar intake, relevant to churros' high sugar content and its contribution to dietary patterns.

   View source →