When it comes to desserts, churro cupcakes are a game-changer for anyone who loves the classic churro flavor. That crispy, golden exterior dusted with cinnamon sugar, paired with the warm, soft interior of a churro, is already pure magic—but imagine those flavors in a moist, fluffy cupcake! These churro cupcakes take everything you love about churros and transform it into a treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
These churro cupcakes are a game-changer, especially if you love experimenting in the kitchen like I do. Imagine a moist cinnamon cupcake topped with a swirl of creamy cinnamon frosting and, to top it all off, a mini churro for that extra wow factor. They’re great for parties, cozy family nights, or just because you’re craving something sweet and indulgent.
The best part? They’re easier to make than you’d think. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone just starting out, this recipe is simple, fun, and guaranteed to impress. Let’s whip up some churro cupcakes together and bring a little sweetness to your day!
Churro Cupcakes Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Equipment Needed:
- Muffin tin
- Cupcake liners
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Whisk
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Piping bag with a star tip (optional for frosting)
Ingredients:
Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping:
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Mini churros (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and set it aside.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This will ensure the cupcakes have an even rise and that delicious churro flavor.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer or a whisk to cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix!
Step 6: Fill and Bake
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
While the cupcakes cool, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the cinnamon and vanilla. Add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
Step 8: Frost the Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are cool, pipe or spread the frosting generously on top of each cupcake. If you’re using a piping bag, a star tip works beautifully for this.
Step 9: Add the Churro Topping
Mix the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture lightly over the frosted cupcakes for a churro-like finish. Add a mini churro on top for extra flair, if desired.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Your churro cupcakes are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them fresh, and watch them disappear.
Exploring Frosting and Topping Variations for Churro Cupcakes
While cinnamon frosting is the classic choice for churro cupcakes, there are endless ways to customize these sweet treats to suit your taste. For a rich and indulgent twist, try a dulce de leche frosting. Its creamy caramel flavor pairs beautifully with the cinnamon cupcake base, bringing a taste of traditional churros with caramel sauce right to your dessert table. A drizzle of extra dulce de leche on top adds an irresistible finishing touch.
If you’re a chocolate lover, consider swapping the cinnamon frosting for a velvety chocolate buttercream. The deep cocoa flavor contrasts perfectly with the warm spices in the cupcake. Add a sprinkle of shaved chocolate or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant look. You could even pipe a dollop of whipped cream on top, dust it with cinnamon sugar, and serve it with a mini churro for a café-inspired dessert.
For something fruity and refreshing, a strawberry or raspberry cream cheese frosting is a fantastic option. The tanginess of the cream cheese combined with the natural sweetness of the berries balances the richness of the cupcake. Top it off with fresh fruit slices or a swirl of berry sauce for a splash of color and flavor.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out our Dipping Sauce Recipes for even more topping ideas! From rich chocolate sauces to zesty fruit glazes, these recipes can be drizzled over the cupcakes or served on the side for an interactive dessert experience.
The Best Ways to Store Your Churro Cupcakes
To keep your churro cupcakes tasting fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. If you plan to enjoy them within a day or two, store them at room temperature in an airtight container. Place a layer of parchment paper between the cupcakes to prevent the frosting from smudging or sticking. Keep the container in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight or heat sources, as excessive warmth can cause the frosting to melt.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate your churro cupcakes. Before doing so, make sure they’re in an airtight container to keep them from drying out. While refrigeration helps extend their shelf life to about 3–4 days, it can slightly firm up the cupcake texture. To enjoy them at their best, allow the cupcakes to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving to restore their soft and fluffy texture.
If you want to prepare churro cupcakes ahead of time for a special occasion, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap each unfrosted cupcake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the cupcakes at room temperature and frost them fresh for the best results. Frosted cupcakes can also be frozen, but ensure the frosting is fully set before wrapping and freezing to maintain their appearance.
Keep the Churro Magic Going
And there you have it—churro cupcakes that combine the best of two dessert worlds. Whether you’re baking them for a celebration or a well-deserved treat, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Plus, with so many ways to customize them, you’ll never run out of delicious options to try.
If you’re hungry for more sweet ideas, why not dive into our recipe collection? From churro-inspired delights to classic desserts with a twist, there’s no shortage of tasty creations to explore. It’s the perfect place to find your next baking adventure.
I’d love to hear how your churro cupcakes turned out! Did you stick with the classic cinnamon frosting, or try something bold and new? Let me know, and don’t forget to share your baking successes with friends and family. After all, good food tastes even better when it’s shared. Happy baking!