Florida Orange and Honey Churros

Ingredients

Preparation

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat combine orange juice, water, butter, sugar, vanilla and salt. Bring to a boil, remove from heat, and add flour all at once. Stir until all the flour is incorporated. Transfer dough to a stand mixer (using paddle attachment) and mix on low for about 1 minute allowing the dough to cool slightly (do not skip this step). Add eggs, one at a time, allowing the egg to be fully incorporated before adding the next. (At first it will appear the egg is not mixing into dough, but it will eventually become smooth after 15 seconds or so). Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a #8-star pastry tip. Refrigerate in piping bag for a minimum of 15 minutes or up to 1 hour before frying.

Combine cinnamon and sugar in a medium bowl and set aside.

Add approximately 2 inches of oil to cast iron pan or Dutch oven and heat over medium-high heat (375 degrees). Carefully pipe in 2-inch-long pieces of dough into hot oil, using scissors to cut the dough from the piping bag. Fry in small batches for about 6 to 7 minutes or until churros are golden brown. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined baking pan to drain excess oil. Immediately toss the hot churros with cinnamon-sugar to coat. Serve immediately with Sweet & Spicy Florida Strawberry Sauce