There is nothing quite as delightful as a dessert that brings the warm, cinnamon-sugary magic of a classic churro right into the soft, fluffy world of cupcakes. This Churro Cupcakes Recipe takes all the best parts of that favorite fairground treat and turns it into an irresistible batch of individual cakes perfect for sharing or savoring solo. With a tender crumb infused with cinnamon, a buttery cinnamon sugar coating just as a fresh churro would have, and a luscious cinnamon vanilla frosting, these cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser that bring a little fiesta to your dessert table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Churro Cupcakes Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the classic white cake mix that ensures a tender base, to the cinnamon that gives everything its signature warm spice. You’ll also find that the butter, sugar, and vanilla work harmoniously to provide the perfect balance of richness and sweetness.
- 1 box white cake mix: Provides a light, fluffy cake foundation that pairs perfectly with cinnamon flavors.
- 1 cup water: Essential for moistening the cake batter and ensuring a soft texture.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cupcakes tender and moist without overpowering flavors.
- 3 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness for a perfect crumb.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses the batter and frosting with that signature churro warmth.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: For brushing on warm cupcakes, helping the cinnamon sugar coating stick and adding extra flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Combined with cinnamon to replicate that classic churro sugary crunch.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: The base for the luscious cinnamon vanilla frosting.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth to the frosting, balancing the cinnamon with a sweet aroma.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect piping consistency.
- 2–4 tbsp milk or heavy cream: Adjusts the frosting’s texture for easy spreading or piping.
How to Make Churro Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Space
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), which gives you just enough time to get everything ready. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup. Knowing your oven is properly preheated is key to cupcakes that rise evenly and bake through perfectly.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Beat everything on medium speed for about two minutes until the batter is completely smooth. The cinnamon here starts weaving its magic, preparing the batter to deliver those familiar churro notes in every bite.
Step 3: Bake Your Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners—each should be about three-quarters full. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Add the Signature Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the cupcakes are still warm, brush the tops with the melted butter. This step is the secret to achieving that irresistible churro crispiness on top. Then, in a small bowl, mix together half a cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture generously over the buttered cupcakes. Let them cool completely so the coating sets just right.
Step 5: Whip Up the Cinnamon Vanilla Frosting
Grab your softened butter and beat it on high speed until fluffy, building that creamy base for your frosting. Add 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon and vanilla extract, stirring to blend the spices into the butter perfectly. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, adding milk or heavy cream a tablespoon at a time until your frosting reaches your desired consistency for perfect piping or spreading.
Step 6: Decorate and Finish
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, generously pipe the cinnamon frosting onto each one. For an extra touch of fun and flair, consider garnishing with mini churros or cinnamon sticks. This makes every cupcake look festive and celebrates the churro inspiration behind them!
How to Serve Churro Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish is such a fun way to elevate your Churro Cupcakes Recipe to the next level. Think crunchy cinnamon sticks or mini churros that echo the flavors inside the cupcake. A light dusting of extra cinnamon sugar or even a drizzle of caramel sauce can bring in an extra layer of sweetness that complements the spice beautifully.
Side Dishes
These cupcakes shine on their own but pair gorgeously with a variety of side treats. A simple scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream makes for a decadent combo, or serve alongside a cup of rich hot chocolate or warm spiced coffee to embrace the warm, cozy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or special occasions, consider serving these churro cupcakes on a rustic wooden board with a small bowl of dipping caramel or dulce de leche. Or, display them in decorative cupcake stands accented with cinnamon sticks and fresh flowers for an inviting presentation that sparks conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store your churro cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The frosting may soften slightly, but the flavors will remain rich and delicious. Keep away from heat or sunlight to maintain freshness.
Freezing
Churro cupcakes freeze wonderfully! To preserve their taste and texture, freeze them without frosting for up to 3 months. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost freshly.
Reheating
To serve chilled cupcakes with frosting as they are, simply let them come to room temperature for 30 minutes. If you prefer them warm, gently heat an unfrosted cupcake in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, then add frosting just before serving to keep that perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix for this Churro Cupcakes Recipe?
Absolutely! While white cake mix is recommended for its light texture and subtle flavor, yellow or even vanilla mixes can work well. Just be mindful that richer mixes might slightly change the cupcake color and flavor profile.
What type of cinnamon is best for this recipe?
Ground cinnamon is perfect here. If you want to experiment, try Ceylon cinnamon for a milder, sweeter flavor or stick to the standard cassia cinnamon for that classic warm and robust taste.
How do I make mini churros to garnish the cupcakes?
Mini churros can be made by piping churro dough into small strips and frying until golden brown, then tossing them in cinnamon sugar. They add great texture and a playful touch that ties the theme together beautifully.
Can I make these cupcakes vegan or dairy-free?
With a few tweaks, yes! Use a dairy-free cake mix or make one from scratch, substitute eggs with flax eggs, and use plant-based butter and milk alternatives for the frosting. The cinnamon sugar topping is naturally vegan.
How long can I keep these cupcakes before they lose freshness?
For the best taste and texture, enjoy your churro cupcakes within 2 days of baking if stored at room temperature. Beyond that, the cupcakes may start to dry out, so freezing is a great option if you want to keep them longer.
Final Thoughts
Taking the delicious essence of the beloved churro and turning it into a cupcake form is such a joyful experience that I can’t recommend this Churro Cupcakes Recipe enough. It’s simple to make, fun to decorate, and absolutely irresistible to eat. Whether you’re baking for a party, a cozy family night, or just because you deserve a treat, these cupcakes promise to deliver smiles and sweet memories with every bite. Give them a try and watch them become an instant favorite!
Print
Churro Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Description
These Churro Cupcakes capture the beloved flavors of classic churros in a moist, tender cupcake form. Featuring a cinnamon-spiced white cake base, topped with a buttery cinnamon sugar coating and a rich cinnamon vanilla buttercream frosting, these cupcakes offer a delightful twist on a traditional Mexican treat. Perfect for parties or anytime you crave a sweet cinnamon indulgence.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 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 and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a standard 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners to prevent sticking and allow easy cupcake removal.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Beat the mixture on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.
- Bake the Cupcakes: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared cupcake liners. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
- Butter and Cinnamon Sugar Topping: While the cupcakes are still warm, brush the tops generously with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture over the cupcake tops. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely to set the topping.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy and creamy. Add cinnamon and vanilla extract, and continue beating until blended. Gradually beat in powdered sugar. Add milk or heavy cream 1 tablespoon at a time to achieve the desired piping consistency.
- Frost and Garnish: Once cupcakes are fully cooled, pipe the cinnamon buttercream frosting generously on each cupcake. Optionally, garnish with mini churros or cinnamon sticks for an extra decorative touch and authentic churro feel.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk for a lighter frosting.
- For an extra churro effect, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cake batter.
- Use a piping bag with a star tip for a classic churro swirl effect on the frosting.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
