If you have a sweet tooth and a love for cinnamon sugar treats, you are going to adore this Churro Cupcakes Recipe. These cupcakes capture the irresistible flavors of classic churros, blending soft, moist cake with a cinnamon-sugar buttered topping and a luscious cinnamon vanilla frosting. Every bite offers a warm hug of sweetness with a nostalgic twist that’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or anytime you want to impress with minimal fuss. Let me take you through making these delectable churro-inspired cupcakes that are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, this Churro Cupcakes Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together beautifully. Each component adds either flavor, texture, or that signature warmth you expect from churros, so don’t skip out on any of them!
- White cake mix: The base of the cupcakes providing a light and tender crumb that bakes up perfectly every time.
- Water: Moistens the cake mix for a soft batter that’s easy to work with.
- Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and keeps the cupcakes tender without weighing them down.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and give structure to the cupcakes.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses the cake and frosting with that unmistakable churro flavor.
- Unsalted butter (melted for topping): Brushed on warm cupcakes to help the cinnamon sugar stick and add richness.
- Granulated sugar: Mixed with cinnamon for the classic churro coating on top of the cupcakes.
- Unsalted butter (softened for frosting): Creates a smooth, creamy base for the cinnamon vanilla frosting.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and gives the frosting a lovely aromatic touch.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a pipeable texture.
- Milk or heavy cream: Adjusts the frosting’s consistency to make it just right for decorating.
How to Make Churro Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Setup
Start things off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners to prevent sticking, make cleanup a breeze, and give your cupcakes that classic shape.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the white cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Beat everything on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and lump-free. This step is crucial to create that consistent cinnamon flavor throughout the cake and achieve the right texture.
Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly into the prepared cupcake liners—each should be roughly two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As the cupcakes bake, your kitchen will start smelling divine with hints of cinnamon and sugar. Once done, allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes to set up nicely before moving on.
Step 4: Apply the Butter and Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the cupcakes are still warm (but not hot), brush the tops generously with the melted butter. This step ensures the sugar mix clings beautifully. Then, mix ½ cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and sprinkle this cinnamon sugar over the buttery tops. Let your cupcakes cool completely so the coating sets and remains crisp.
Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Vanilla Frosting
Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed until fluffy. Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well to combine. Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, alternating with 2 to 4 tablespoons of milk or cream until you reach a smooth, pipeable consistency. This frosting enhances the cozy churro vibe with its creamy, spiced sweetness.
Step 6: Frost and Decorate the Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread a generous amount of cinnamon vanilla frosting on each one. For an extra fun touch, consider garnishing with mini churros or cinnamon sticks. These finishing touches elevate the presentation and double down on that churro charm that makes this recipe unforgettable.
How to Serve Churro Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
For a playful crunch and visual appeal, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top of the frosting. Miniature churros, cinnamon sticks, or even a dusting of powdered sugar add delightful texture and make the cupcakes feel special. These garnishes give a nod to classic churros and make your desserts Instagram-worthy.
Side Dishes
Churro cupcakes pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat. A cup of rich hot chocolate or cinnamon-spiced coffee can complement the cinnamon flavors perfectly, turning your dessert into a cozy, comforting experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging these cupcakes on a rustic wooden board or colorful cupcake stands for an eye-catching display. For a party, serve them with small bowls of chocolate dipping sauce and caramel, letting your guests customize their churro cupcakes. Wrapping each with a ribbon or placing them in decorative boxes makes for charming gifts as well.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover churro cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The cinnamon sugar topping stays crisp for a short time, but after that, the cupcakes remain moist and delicious. For longer storage, refrigeration is an option, though it may soften the cinnamon sugar crust slightly.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to three months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature, then frost and add the cinnamon sugar topping fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
If you’d like to warm your churro cupcakes before serving, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cupcakes soggy and impact the cinnamon sugar coating. A light warming enhances the buttery cinnamon aroma and melts the frosting slightly for an irresistible treat.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor for this Churro Cupcakes Recipe?
While white cake mix works best for its light texture and neutral sweetness, you could experiment with yellow or even spice cake mixes for a different twist. Just keep in mind that stronger flavors might compete with the cinnamon sugar coating.
Is it necessary to brush melted butter on the cupcakes before the cinnamon sugar topping?
Yes! The melted butter helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the cupcake tops, recreating that classic churro crunch. Without it, the sugar won’t stick as well, and you’ll miss out on the signature coating.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free white cake mix and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free as well. The rest of the recipe stays the same, and you’ll still get that wonderful churro flavor and texture.
How do I make the frosting less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar slightly or add a bit more milk or cream to loosen the frosting. Keep tasting as you adjust to make sure it still has a balanced sweetness with the warm cinnamon flavor.
What is the best way to pipe the frosting on these cupcakes?
A large star tip works beautifully to create a swirled look that mimics the ridges of churros. If you don’t have a piping bag, simply spread the frosting with a small spatula for a rustic, homemade feel.
Final Thoughts
This Churro Cupcakes Recipe is such a joyful way to bring the magic of churros into a fun and easy-to-make baked treat. Every component sings cinnamon sweetness and buttery goodness, creating a cozy dessert that feels both comforting and festive. I hope you’ll try making these cupcakes soon—they’re perfect for sharing, celebrating, or just treating yourself to a little extra happiness in cupcake form!
Print
Churro Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Churro Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic churro, combining the flavors of cinnamon sugar and buttery cake with a creamy cinnamon frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a special treat, they deliver the crispy, sugary goodness of churros in a soft, moist cupcake form.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Topping
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Frosting
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2–4 tbsp milk or heavy cream (to adjust consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a standard 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners to prepare for baking the cupcakes.
- Mix Batter: In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Bake Cupcakes: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
- Apply Cinnamon Sugar Topping: While the cupcakes are still warm, brush the tops generously with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture over the buttered cupcake tops. Allow cupcakes to cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy. Add in the cinnamon and vanilla extract, then gradually blend in the powdered sugar. Adjust the consistency by adding milk or heavy cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting is smooth and pipeable.
- Frost Cupcakes: Pipe the cinnamon frosting onto each cooled cupcake evenly. Optionally, garnish with mini churros or cinnamon sticks for an authentic touch.
Notes
- You can substitute the white cake mix with a homemade vanilla cake batter if preferred.
- The amount of milk or heavy cream in the frosting can be adjusted to make the frosting thicker or thinner depending on preference.
- For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and a non-dairy milk alternative.
- Mini churros or cinnamon sticks as garnishes add texture and enhance the churro flavor.
- Make sure cupcakes are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
