Name: Churro Crinkle Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar: Sweet Bliss Awaits
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend); 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Ensure it’s unsweetened); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (For leavening); 1 pinch Salt (Enhances flavor); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Adds sweetness); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Contributes to chewiness); 2 large Eggs (Can substitute with flax eggs for vegan option); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (For churro flavor); 1/2 cup Butter or Coconut Oil (Can use plant-based butter for vegan); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (For coating); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (For coating)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through my kitchen always stirs sweet childhood memories. As I experimented one afternoon, the delightful idea of Churro Crinkle Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar came to life, merging my love for baking with the comforting flavors of a classic churro. These cookies are not just visually appealing with their crinkled tops; they offer a quick, easy way to bring joy to any gathering or just a cozy night in. Plus, they can easily accommodate gluten-free and vegan needs, so everyone can indulge! Ready to elevate your dessert game with a twist on a beloved favorite? Let’s dive into this fun recipe and create deliciousness together.

Why Are Churro Crinkle Cookies Special?

Unique Flavor Fusion: The combination of churros and cookies creates a delightful twist that brings something new to dessert time.
Irresistible Crunch: The warm cinnamon sugar coating delivers the perfect crunch, reminiscent of freshly made churros.
Easy to Make: With a simple process, these cookies come together quickly, making them ideal for busy days or spontaneous cravings.
Customizable Options: Whether you need vegan-friendly treats or gluten-free delights, this recipe is flexible enough to suit all dietary preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for gatherings, these cookies are guaranteed to impress friends and family, much like my Lemon Raspberry Cookies!

Churro Crinkle Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; opt for a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free needs.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; make sure it’s unsweetened for the best taste.
Baking Powder – Aids in leavening, helping the cookies rise perfectly.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; essential for a delightful treat.
Brown Sugar – Contributes to the chewiness and adds a deeper flavor.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and add richness; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses aromatic flavor, enhancing the cookie’s taste.
Ground Cinnamon – Provides the classic churro spice and is crucial for the topping.
Butter or Coconut Oil – Adds richness; swap with plant-based butter for a vegan approach.

For the Topping

Granulated Sugar – Mix it with ground cinnamon for the iconic churro-like coating; ensures that every bite is sweet and flavorful.
Ground Cinnamon – Use fresh cinnamon for topping; it brings out the cookie’s churro essence beautifully.

Get ready to create these Churro Crinkle Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar that are guaranteed to ignite your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Churro Crinkle Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar

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 to ensure your Churro Crinkle Cookies don’t stick. This preparation step is crucial in achieving the perfect cookie texture, so make sure your oven is ready before proceeding.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This dry mixture is essential for the structure of the cookies, and whisking helps to evenly distribute the ingredients. Set aside this bowl as you move on to the next step.

Step 3: Cream the Sugars and Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of packed brown sugar, and 2 large eggs. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. This is your wet mixture, and it forms the base for the Churro Crinkle Cookies. The fluffiness indicates it’s ready for the next step.

Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract
Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to your egg and sugar mixture, continuing to mix gently. The vanilla enhances the flavor profile of your cookies, creating a delightful aroma as you blend it in. Keep the mixer on low to avoid splashes, and make sure it’s well integrated before moving on.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a thick, slightly sticky dough. Once you see no dry flour, you’ve achieved the right consistency, allowing you to move forward in forming the cookies.

Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough retain its shape during baking and enhances the flavor. This step is not to be skipped, as it significantly impacts the texture of your Churro Crinkle Cookies.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the dough chills, in a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This cinnamon sugar coating is key to achieving that classic churro flavor and texture. Once mixed, set it aside until you’re ready for rolling the cookies.

Step 8: Form Cookie Balls
Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and scoop tablespoon-sized portions. Roll each portion into a ball in your hands. The dough should feel soft but not too sticky. Once you have formed all the balls, it’s time to roll them in the cinnamon sugar.

Step 9: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Roll each cookie ball in the prepared cinnamon sugar until well coated. Ensure every surface is covered for that beloved churro crunch. Place the coated balls onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread while baking.

Step 10: Bake the Cookies
Bake your Churro Crinkle Cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for edges that are set and tops that are slightly cracked. This finish gives the cookies their signature texture and appearance.

Step 11: Cool on Baking Sheet
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This resting period helps them firm up without losing their soft interior. After cooling, gently transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 12: Enjoy Your Cookies
Once your Churro Crinkle Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar have cooled, they’re ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm, and consider pairing them with a side of chocolate sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added delectable delight.

Expert Tips for Churro Crinkle Cookies

Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise ingredient measurement. This ensures your Churro Crinkle Cookies come out just right every time.
Don’t Overmix: Mixing your dough too much can make cookies dense. Stir until just combined for the best texture.
Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes prevents spreading during baking, helping your cookies maintain their beautiful crinkled tops.
Perfect Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture—aim for a slightly soft center.
Flavor Variations: Add chocolate chips or nuts for an exciting twist, or incorporate a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor alongside the cinnamon.

Make Ahead Options

These Churro Crinkle Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully and the cookies retain their perfect shape during baking. For even more convenience, you can roll the dough balls in the cinnamon sugar coating and freeze them for up to 3 months in an airtight container. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen cookie balls on a baking sheet and bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies without the last-minute rush, making dessert time a breeze!

Churro Crinkle Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cookies and make them your own, adding your favorite twists and flavors!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the same delicious texture without the gluten.
Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and replace butter with coconut oil.
Chocolate Chip Addition: Fold in a handful of chocolate chips or chunks for a more indulgent cookie experience. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the churro flavor!
Pumpkin Spice Twist: Swap in pumpkin pie spice into the dough for a seasonal flavor that’s perfect for fall baking.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for added crunch and nutrition. Nuts can bring a delightful contrast to the soft texture of the cookies.
Coconut Delight: Replace half the granulated sugar with shredded coconut for a tropical twist that adds chewiness and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a subtle heat that will surprise your taste buds!

These options make wonderful variations to the classic recipe, and don’t forget, they’re excellent for sharing! For more delicious treats, try my Churro Cheesecake Indulge or enjoy the rich flavors of Tiramisu Cookies Melt.

How to Store and Freeze Churro Crinkle Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Churro Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week; keep them away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.

Fridge: If you prefer a chewier texture, these cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying for the best taste and texture.

Reheating: If you want to enjoy warm cookies again, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds to bring back the soft, chewy goodness of these Churro Crinkle Cookies.

What to Serve with Churro Crinkle Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar

Treat your taste buds with delightful combinations that elevate your dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm, spiced cookies perfectly. The contrast in temperatures creates a comforting sensation in every bite.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cookies for added indulgence. This rich sauce melts into the soft cookie, enhancing that chocolatey flair.
Caramel Dip: Pair with a side of caramel dip for a sweet twist. The buttery flavor of caramel beautifully contrasts the cinnamon sugar coating.
Fresh Berries: Serve with sweet strawberries or tart raspberries to brighten the dish. Their freshness cuts through the richness, adding a lovely touch.
Chai Tea: Enjoy a warm cup of chai tea alongside the cookies. The spices in the tea echo the cinnamon, creating a harmonious flavor pairing.
Nutty Hot Chocolate: Indulge in nutty hot chocolate for a cozy dessert drink. The rich, creamy flavors perfectly complement the soft, chewy texture of the cookies.
Whipped Cream: Top the cookies with a dollop of whipped cream for a light and airy addition. This creamy topping enhances the overall dessert without overwhelming the flavors.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm serving of spiced apple cider adds a seasonal touch, while the warm spices echo the flavor profile of your churro cookies.

These delectable pairings are sure to make your Churro Crinkle Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar experience even more memorable!

Churro Crinkle Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for my Churro Crinkle Cookies?
When selecting ingredients, opt for all-purpose flour that is fresh and free from any clumps. For a gluten-free version, a blend of gluten-free flour works well. Ensure you are using unsweetened cocoa powder; this prevents the cookies from becoming overly sweet. For the eggs, farm-fresh ones are best—they bind the ingredients nicely and add richness.

How should I store my Churro Crinkle Cookies?
To maintain their delightful texture, store your Churro Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To keep them fresh longer, consider placing a piece of bread in with them; the moisture will help keep the cookies soft.

Can I freeze Churro Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, allow them to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, layering parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you notice your cookies spreading excessively, this can be due to warm dough. Ensure you chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking, as this helps prevent spreading. Also, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer; sometimes the calibration can be off, leading to unforeseen baking issues.

Are Churro Crinkle Cookies vegan-friendly?
Yes! You can easily make them vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs. To do this, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, letting it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes gel-like. Additionally, swap the butter for plant-based butter or coconut oil, ensuring all other ingredients are also vegan-friendly.

Can I make variations to the Churro Crinkle Cookies recipe?
The more the merrier! You can include chocolate chips, nuts, or even swap the ground cinnamon for pumpkin spice to give it an autumn twist. Just remember to adjust the sugar levels if using sweeter mix-ins, ensuring that the delightful flavor of churros remains at the forefront.