There’s something magical about the moment when sweet scents waft through the kitchen, teasing your senses and igniting anticipation. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Churro Crinkle Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar—a delightful blend of chewy cookie bliss and the warm, comforting flavors of churros. Not only is this an easy-to-make dessert that will have you indulging in seconds, but it also offers the flexibility to whip up gluten-free and vegan versions, ensuring everyone can join in the treat! Whether you’re looking for a fun addition to your dessert table or simply craving something warm and sugary, these cookies are here to deliver. Curious about how to create this delicious concoction? Let’s get baking!
Why Are These Churro Crinkle Cookies Irresistible?
Satisfying, chewy texture: Each bite offers a deliciously soft and chewy experience, making them irresistible to cookie lovers.
Decadent cinnamon sugar coating: The irresistible warm cinnamon sugar coating adds a sweet crunch that complements the soft center perfectly.
Dietary flexibility: With options for both gluten-free and vegan versions, everyone can enjoy these treats without compromise.
Quick and easy: Whip them up in no time—this simple recipe makes baking a breeze, perfect for a last-minute dessert!
Perfect for sharing: These cookies are a crowd favorite, making them ideal for parties or family gatherings. You can even pair them with other delights, such as Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies for a diverse dessert spread!
Endless variations: Add-ins like chocolate chips or seasonal spices allow you to customize flavors to suit your palate.
Churro Crinkle Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and a chewy texture; swap with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds depth and a hint of chocolate flavor; no substitution needed unless avoiding chocolate.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cookies rise.
• Salt – Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness in every bite.
• Granulated Sugar – Ensures sweetness and texture; feel free to adjust the amount as per your taste.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a richer flavor; it’s what makes these churro crinkle cookies truly special.
• Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; use flax eggs for a vegan twist.
• Vanilla Extract – A flavor enhancer that brings everything together beautifully; no need for substitutions.
• Ground Cinnamon – The star spice that evokes the beloved churro flavor; using freshly ground will elevate its beauty.
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with coconut oil for a vegan-friendly option.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
• Granulated Sugar – It’s the canvas for your cinnamon sugar coating; mixing it with cinnamon gives the cookies their signature crunch.
• Ground Cinnamon – Rounds out the warmth and sweetness; opt for freshly ground for that extra flair in taste.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Churro Crinkle Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This ensures your Churro Crinkle Cookies bake evenly and come out flawless. Gather your mixing bowls and measuring cups to set the stage for a smooth baking experience.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial for ensuring even distribution of the dry ingredients, which creates the perfect texture for your cookies. Set this mixture aside, as you will fold it into the wet ingredients shortly.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This fluffy base adds airiness to your Churro Crinkle Cookies, leading to a beautifully chewy center. Next, stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the delicious flavor.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, the ideal consistency for rolling into balls later. This stage is where your Churro Crinkle Cookies begin to take shape!
Step 5: Chill the Dough
To maintain the shape of the cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the butter to firm up again, which prevents spreading during baking. While your dough chills, you can prepare the cinnamon sugar coating to add that delicious churro-like flavor.
Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, combine additional granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the coating. Mix thoroughly to ensure every granule of sugar is infused with cinnamon. This sweet topping is what gives your Churro Crinkle Cookies a delightful crunch and that signature flavor reminiscent of churros.
Step 7: Form Cookie Balls
Once the dough is chilled, scoop out portions with a cookie scoop or tablespoon and roll them into balls. Coat each ball generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring they’re fully covered. Space the balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow for spreading during baking.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake your Churro Crinkle Cookies for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set, and the tops have slightly cracked. Avoid overbaking—these cookies should remain soft and chewy inside, just like traditional churros!
Step 9: Cool on Baking Sheet
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This cooling time allows them to firm up a bit while still retaining that soft, chewy center. Then, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack for further cooling, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture.
How to Store and Freeze Churro Crinkle Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days; this helps maintain their delightful chewiness.
Fridge: If you prefer, store the cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week, but be aware that they may lose some of their initial softness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To enjoy warm Churro Crinkle Cookies, microwave them for 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes, bringing back their delightful soft texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Churro Crinkle Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Chilling the dough not only helps maintain its shape but also enhances the flavors, making them even more delicious. If you’re short on time, you can also roll the cookie balls and coat them in cinnamon sugar, then refrigerate them on a baking sheet for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful treats, just pop them in the oven for a quick bake, and you’ll have warm, fresh Churro Crinkle Cookies ready to share!
Expert Tips for Churro Crinkle Cookies
- Chilling the Dough: Allowing your dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps prevent excessive spreading during baking, ensuring perfect Churro Crinkle Cookies.
- Fresh Spices Matter: Opt for freshly ground cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile—store-bought versions can lack the depth needed for a true churro taste.
- Perfect Baking Time: Watch closely while baking; the cookies are done when the edges are set and the tops show slight cracks—overbaking can lead to hard cookies.
- Rolling Coating: For an extra special touch, consider rolling the cookie balls in powdered sugar before the cinnamon sugar for a festive flair.
- Avoid Tough Cookies: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined—overmixing can result in tough texture rather than the chewy delight you desire.
Churro Crinkle Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and cater these scrumptious cookies to your tastes and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (2.5 tablespoons of water with 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed) and use coconut oil instead of butter for a fully vegan treat.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to add a crunchy texture that complements the chewy cookie base and enhances flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich surprise in every bite—you can even drizzle melted chocolate on top afterward for extra indulgence!
- Seasonal Spices: Experiment with flavors by incorporating nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a warm twist, perfect for the fall season.
- Cinnamon Sugar Boost: Elevate the outer crunch by mixing a bit of vanilla sugar into your cinnamon sugar coating for an extra hint of sweet complexity.
- Peppered Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for those who enjoy a touch of heat alongside their sweet flavors.
- Layered Flavors: For an innovative twist, try drizzling caramel sauce over the cooled cookies while still warm for a luxurious flavor partnership.
The options are endless, and if you’re curious about more delightful treats, check out my recipes for Cheesecake Cookies Salted and Fudgy Chewy Cookies for additional ways to satisfy your sweet tooth!
What to Serve with Churro Crinkle Cookies?
There’s something special about complementing your dessert with delightful sides that enhance the experience of every sweet bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold contrast to warm cookies is a match made in heaven. Drizzle with chocolate syrup for an extra treat!
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Chocolate Sauce: Serve a warm, rich chocolate sauce for dipping, adding a decadent twist that brings out those chocolate notes in the cookies.
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Caramel Sauce: This sticky and sweet topping pairs beautifully, creating a gooey, indulgent experience that echoes the churro’s signature sweetness.
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Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries add a refreshing burst of flavor that balances the sweetness of the cookies, bringing a touch of nature’s sweetness to the table.
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Coffee or Latte: The rich, bold flavors of a warm beverage enhance the cookies’ soft, buttery notes, making for a perfectly cozy pairing.
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Spiced Hot Chocolate: Leaning into the cozy vibes, a cup of spiced hot chocolate with hints of cinnamon complements the churro flavors wonderfully.
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Churro Dipping Sauce: For those who can’t get enough, offer a homemade churro sauce to dip these cookies into for an indulgent and thematic experience.
Elevate your dessert table and enjoy every sweet moment with these delightful pairings that are sure to satisfy your cravings!
Churro Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ingredients are ripe or selected properly?
Absolutely! For the best results, make sure your eggs are fresh and at room temperature. When it comes to ground cinnamon, opting for freshly ground will significantly enhance the flavor of your Churro Crinkle Cookies, delivering that authentic churro taste.
How should I store Churro Crinkle Cookies?
You can keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. This method helps retain their delightful chewiness. Alternatively, if you prefer a chilled option, they can be refrigerated for up to a week, though they might lose some softness.
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Can I freeze Churro Crinkle Cookies?
Very much! To freeze your cookies, place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, making sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will maintain their delicious flavor for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the oven.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much?
If you find that your cookies are spreading excessively during baking, that’s a common concern! I recommend chilling the dough for a longer time—up to an hour can work wonders. This allows the butter to firm up further, preventing them from losing their shape.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Certainly! If you’re making vegan versions of Churro Crinkle Cookies, replace the regular eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg and let it sit for 5 minutes). Additionally, using a gluten-free flour blend allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy these treats as well.
What can I do if my cookies turn out too tough?
To achieve that desired chewy texture, avoid overmixing your dough. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Also, measuring your flour correctly can make a difference—too much flour can lead to a denser cookie, so spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off.
Churro Crinkle Cookies: Soft, Chewy Cinnamon Sugar Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Combine additional granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl for the coating.
- Scoop portions of dough and roll into balls, then coat in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Place cookie balls on the baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart, and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
