makes about 20 small churros

For the Churros:

canola or vegetable oil, for frying

1/2 cup, plus 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1 cup water

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup all-purpose flour

3 large eggs

For the Chocolate Sauce:

1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks

scant 1 cup heavy cream

pinch of salt

1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)