Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAmid the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods, I found myself daydreaming of a treat that merges the best of two worlds: cookies and churros. Enter my Churro Crinkle Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar—a delightful twist on a beloved classic. These cookies are soft and chewy, lovingly coated in a crunchy cinnamon sugar that will have everyone asking for the recipe. With minimal prep time, they’re a fantastic option for busy bakers who want to impress family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, I’ve got tips for making them gluten-free or vegan, so nobody has to miss out on this delicious experience. How do you usually sweeten your weekends? Let’s dive into this tasty adventure together! Why Are Churro Crinkle Cookies Irresistible? Soft, Chewy Texture: These cookies have the perfect balance of tenderness and chewiness, making every bite a delightful experience. Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: A generous sprinkle of cinnamon sugar adds an irresistible crunch, reminiscent of delicious churros. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up these treats in no time, perfect for when unexpected guests arrive. Dietary Friendly: Whether you’re gluten-free or vegan, simple substitutions let everyone enjoy the bliss of Churro Cheesecake Indulge or Tiramisu Cookies Melt. Crowd-Pleasing: They disappear quickly at any gathering, making them the star of your dessert spread. Versatile Flavor: Add chocolate chips or seasonal spices for a personalized twist. Take a bite into this warm, aromatic treat, and you’ll understand why they’re so adored! Churro Crinkle Cookies Ingredients For the Cookie Batter All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies. Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds depth of flavor and a rich color; no known substitutions. Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for lightness; ensure it’s fresh for best results. Salt – Enhances flavor; use sea salt or kosher salt as alternatives. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough; you can replace half with brown sugar for more moisture. Brown Sugar – Adds chewiness and rich flavor; light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably. Eggs – Binds the dough and provides moisture; for a vegan option, substitute with flax eggs (1 egg = 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water). Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; pure vanilla extract is preferred. For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating Cinnamon – Core flavor for the sugar coating; fresh ground cinnamon will maximize taste. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the coating; combines with cinnamon for that classic churro flavor. Optional Topping Powdered Sugar – Adds aesthetic appeal and extra sweetness; can be omitted if desired. 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 heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cookie release. This step is crucial as it ensures your Churro Crinkle Cookies bake evenly and develop that delightful crinkled texture. Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This ensures that your dry ingredients are mixed evenly, preventing any clumps. Set this bowl aside as you prepare the wet ingredients, keeping everything nearby for a smooth workflow. Step 3: Beat Sugars and Eggs In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2–3 minutes. The sugars should dissolve, creating a creamy base that will add sweetness and moisture to your Churro Crinkle Cookies. Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract Stir in the vanilla extract into the sugar-egg mixture, combining well until it’s fully integrated. The vanilla not only enhances the flavor but also adds a warm aroma that blends beautifully with the cinnamon sugar coating you’ll use later. Perfecting this step sets a delightful tone for your cookies. Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of your Churro Crinkle Cookies. You’re looking for a dough that holds together but retains a bit of airiness. Step 6: Chill the Dough Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps it maintain its shape while baking, preventing excessive spreading. This also allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the final taste of your cookies. Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating While the dough chills, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined. This fragrant mixture will be used to coat your cookies, providing that iconic churro flavor. The sweet and spicy aroma will surely make your kitchen feel inviting! Step 8: Form the Cookie Balls After chilling, scoop portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball thoroughly in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring they’re well coated. The coating is key to achieving that signature crunch on your Churro Crinkle Cookies. Step 9: Bake the Cookies Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball to allow for spreading. Bake them in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking. Step 10: Cool and Serve Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them gently to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps them firm up while still maintaining that soft and chewy center. Your Churro Crinkle Cookies are now ready to be enjoyed! Churro Crinkle Cookies: Fun Variations & Substitutions Embrace your creativity by personalizing these Churro Crinkle Cookies in delightful ways that cater to your taste! Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously tender version that everyone can enjoy. Vegan Upgrade: Swap out the eggs with flax eggs and use coconut oil instead of butter for a vegan-friendly treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Less Sugar: Reduce the granulated sugar by half and add a bit of applesauce to maintain moisture while lightening the sweetness. Chocolate Twist: Fold in mini chocolate chips or a swirl of melted chocolate to give your cookies an indulgent, decadent touch. Seasonal Flavors: For a festive flair, incorporate pumpkin spice or a sprinkle of orange zest for a unique seasonal spin. Nuts for Texture: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast to the soft, chewy cookie; this elevates both flavor and texture. Adding Spices: To amp up the warmth, try mixing in a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or cayenne pepper for an unexpected kick that dances on your palate. Fruity Fusions: Blend in dried fruit like cranberries or raisins to introduce a sweet chewiness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon sugar. These variations will keep your baking adventure fresh and exciting! While you’re at it, consider trying out other treats like Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies or Lemon Raspberry Cookies to further explore the world of delicious homemade desserts. Enjoy creating your personalized Churro Crinkle Cookies! What to Serve with Churro Crinkle Cookies? Imagine a cozy gathering where the sweet aroma of cinnamon fills the air, and your cherished Churro Crinkle Cookies are the star of the show. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture pairs beautifully with warm cookies, creating a delightful temperature contrast that enhances every bite. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a warm, rich chocolate sauce over these cookies adds a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will appreciate. Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee offset the sweetness of the cookies, making for a delightful afternoon treat or after-dinner indulgence. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweet and spicy notes of the cookies, adding a burst of color and freshness to the table. Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: For the ultimate cozy experience, serve a warm mug of cinnamon-infused hot chocolate alongside your cookies for a match made in heaven. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel evokes memories of sweet treats at fairs, perfectly complementing the churro-inspired flavors of these cookies. Cream Cheese Frosting: A dollop of tangy cream cheese frosting adds a luscious creaminess, balancing the sweetness while enhancing the flavor profile of the cookies. Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai blend beautifully with the cookies, offering an inviting twist for a seasonal or dessert drink. Expert Tips for Churro Crinkle Cookies Chill Longer: If your cookies spread too much, let the dough chill for an additional 15-30 minutes to help them maintain their shape while baking. Check Freshness: Ensure your baking powder is fresh to achieve the best rise in your Churro Crinkle Cookies; expired baking powder can lead to dense cookies. Don’t Overmix: Mix your dry and wet ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies, so be gentle! Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while baking. They should be set on the edges but still soft in the center to keep that perfect chewy texture. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to enhance your cookies by adding chocolate chips or a dash of nutmeg to the dough for a unique twist! How to Store and Freeze Churro Crinkle Cookies Room Temperature: Keep your Churro Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This will maintain their soft, chewy texture while protecting them from drying out. Fridge: If you’d like them to last a bit longer, store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply reheat the cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds or until warmed through, bringing back that fresh-baked goodness! Make Ahead Options These Churro Crinkle Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who love to plan! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator. Simply scoop the dough into balls, roll them in the cinnamon sugar, and store them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper. If you want to prep even further ahead, you can freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months; just remember to separate them with wax paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just place them directly on the baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to your baking time. This way, your Churro Crinkle Cookies will be just as delicious as freshly made! Churro Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs What type of flour should I use for the best results? For the most delightful texture, I recommend using all-purpose flour. However, if you need a gluten-free option, using a gluten-free flour blend works beautifully to maintain the cookies’ chewy consistency. How should I store my Churro Crinkle Cookies to keep them fresh? Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer, you can also keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying for the best taste! Can I freeze Churro Crinkle Cookies? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for about 10 seconds. What should I do if my cookie dough spreads too much while baking? If you find your cookies spreading more than you’d like, consider chilling the dough for an additional 15-30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and results in that lovely crinkled texture. Are there any vegan alternatives for this recipe? Yes! You can easily make these cookies vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs. For one egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Additionally, replace any butter with coconut oil for a delightful swapping! How can I tell when my Churro Crinkle Cookies are perfectly baked? Look for your cookies to be set on the edges with slight cracks on top. They should still be soft in the center; if you press them gently, they should give a little without falling apart. This ensures they have that perfect chewy center while still being crisp on the outside. Churro Crinkle Cookies: Soft, Chewy & Cinnamon-Sugar Bliss Churro Crinkle Cookies are soft, chewy cookies coated in cinnamon sugar, combining the best of cookies and churros. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 12 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Batter2 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies.1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder No known substitutions.2 teaspoons Baking Powder Ensure it's fresh for best results.1/2 teaspoon Salt Sea salt or kosher salt can be used as alternatives.1 cup Granulated Sugar Replace half with brown sugar for more moisture.1/2 cup Brown Sugar Light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.2 large Eggs Substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Pure vanilla extract is preferred.For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating2 tablespoons Cinnamon Fresh ground cinnamon will maximize taste.1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Combines with cinnamon for that classic churro flavor.Optional Topping1/4 cup Powdered Sugar Can be omitted if desired. Equipment Baking sheetParchment PaperMixing bowlshand mixer or stand mixer Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Churro Crinkle CookiesPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.In a large mixing bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs together until light and fluffy.Stir in the vanilla extract into the sugar-egg mixture.Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl for the coating.Scoop portions of the dough, roll into balls, and coat in the cinnamon sugar mixture.Place the cookie balls on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 75mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 60IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesThese cookies can be made gluten-free or vegan with simple substitutions. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
