Get ready to fall in love with the Irresistible Churro Cookies Recipe, a delightful twist on the classic churro treat that transforms it into a soft, chewy cookie bursting with cinnamon flavor. These cookies capture the essence of that beloved fried dough by combining warm cinnamon, buttery goodness, and a crispy sugar coating, all in a convenient, easy-to-bake cookie form. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or for sharing at a party, these churro cookies promise a sweet, comforting experience that’s simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture that make these churro cookies stand out. From the rich butter that delivers tenderness to the fragrant cinnamon that gives the cookies their signature warmth, every element plays a vital part.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and softness for the cookies.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Gives a slight lift to ensure a light, chewy bite.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: The star spice, infusing the dough with that classic churro warmth.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Brings sweetness and helps with the cookie’s golden color.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Contributes moisture and a touch of caramel depth.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add tenderness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its sweet, floral notes.
- Sugar-cinnamon mixture (1/4 cup granulated sugar + 2 tsp cinnamon): The crunchy coating that seals the deal with extra cinnamon goodness.
How to Make Irresistible Churro Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and lift off the sheet effortlessly. Meanwhile, whisk together the dry ingredients — flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon — in a medium bowl. Setting this aside lets you focus on the creaming step next.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and pale. This creaming process is key to a light texture. Then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by a splash of vanilla extract to build layers of flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the creamed butter and sugar, mixing just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix here, as that can make the cookies tough. You want tender, chewy churro-inspired cookies, so gentle mixing is your secret weapon.
Step 4: Portion and Bake
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dollops of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them several inches apart. This lets the cookies spread just enough without merging. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown — this is your sign they’re perfectly baked with a slight crisp edge.
Step 5: Toss in Cinnamon Sugar
While the cookies are still warm, roll them in the sugar-cinnamon mixture. This final touch mimics the iconic churro coating, providing a sweet, crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie inside. Let them cool slightly before enjoying the magic of this Irresistible Churro Cookies Recipe.
How to Serve Irresistible Churro Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top for sparkle and flavor, or add a delicate drizzle of melted chocolate to elevate these cookies to a whole new level of indulgence. A dusting of powdered sugar works wonderfully as a light, snowy finish that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Side Dishes
These churro cookies pair wonderfully with a cool glass of milk or a warm mug of hot chocolate. For an adult twist, serve alongside a cinnamon-spiced coffee or even a rich Mexican hot chocolate to echo those churro vibes. Fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can transform your snack into a decadent dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies in a rustic basket lined with a colorful kitchen towel for a charming party platter. Alternatively, stack them with parchment layers inside a pretty tin for gifting. For a fun, interactive twist, set up a churro cookie decorating station with sprinkles, frosting, or even caramel sauce for guests to personalize their treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover churro cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Storing them properly helps preserve their soft, chewy centers and crunchy cinnamon sugar coating without drying them out.
Freezing
You can freeze baked churro cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag once solid. They’ll keep for up to 3 months, making it easy to enjoy a taste of happiness whenever the mood strikes.
Reheating
Warm them slightly in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive that freshly-baked softness and crisp exterior. This quick reheating makes each bite as dreamy as when they first came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour gives the best texture here, but you can try a gluten-free blend if needed. Just keep in mind the texture might change a bit, becoming either softer or a little crumbly depending on the blend.
What can I use instead of unsalted butter?
Salted butter works as a substitute, but remember to reduce or omit any added salt in the recipe to keep the flavor balanced. For a dairy-free option, try coconut oil, though this will slightly change the flavor and texture.
How do I make the cookies crispier?
For crispier churro cookies, bake them a minute or two longer and make sure to space the dough a little further apart. Removing them to a wire rack as soon as they’re baked helps keep edges crisp.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts can add delightful texture and flavor contrast. Just fold them in with the dry ingredients before scooping out the dough.
Is it possible to make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This resting time actually enhances flavors and can improve texture. Just let the dough sit at room temperature briefly before scooping and baking.
Final Thoughts
This Irresistible Churro Cookies Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the magic of churros in a simple, shareable form. With its warm cinnamon flavor and perfect balance of soft and crispy textures, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. Give it a try, and get ready to delight everyone who tastes these charming little cookies!
Print
Irresistible Churro Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Irresistible Churro Cookies combine the classic flavors of cinnamon and sugar with a soft, buttery cookie base. Perfectly golden with a delightful sugar-cinnamon coating, they capture the essence of traditional churros in an easy-to-make cookie form. Ideal for dessert lovers and cinnamon enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon thoroughly and set this mixture aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the room temperature unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next, then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing slowly until just combined to avoid overworking the dough which can make cookies tough.
- Portion Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them approximately 2 inches apart to allow spreading during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown and the centers are set.
- Coat Cookies: While still warm, toss the freshly baked cookies in the prepared sugar-cinnamon mixture so they are evenly coated, mimicking the classic churro taste and texture.
- Cool and Serve: Transfer the coated cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, then enjoy your irresistible churro-inspired treat!
Notes
- For best results, ensure butter is softened to room temperature before creaming.
- Do not overmix the dough after adding the dry ingredients; this prevents dense cookies.
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can increase the cinnamon in both the dough and coating slightly.
- Cookies are best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Using parchment paper helps with easy cleanup and prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet.
