introduction
Spanish churro pancakes are the perfect fusion of two beloved breakfast treats: classic fluffy pancakes and crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated churros. This recipe was inspired by the irresistible aroma and flavor of traditional Spanish churros, but reimagined in a softer, more comforting pancake form. The result is a breakfast that feels indulgent and playful while still being incredibly easy to prepare at home. The first time I made these, the cinnamon sugar alone was enough to make the kitchen feel warm and inviting.
What makes these pancakes special is their texture and finish. They are light and fluffy on the inside, with a buttery exterior that gets coated in a generous layer of cinnamon sugar, just like a churro. Each bite delivers warmth, sweetness, and a nostalgic dessert-like quality that works beautifully for breakfast or brunch. Whether served with syrup, chocolate sauce, or simply enjoyed as they are, Spanish churro pancakes are a treat that feels special without being complicated.
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Spanish Churro Pancakes – Fluffy Pancakes with Cinnamon Sugar Magic
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 pancakes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Spanish churro pancakes are fluffy pancakes coated in cinnamon sugar and drizzled with syrup or chocolate, inspired by the classic churro flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Maple syrup or chocolate sauce for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients and stir until just mixed.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
- Pour batter onto the skillet to form pancakes.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden.
- Mix cinnamon and sugar in a shallow bowl.
- While pancakes are warm, coat lightly with cinnamon sugar.
- Serve immediately with syrup or chocolate sauce.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep pancakes fluffy.
- You can stack and coat pancakes just before serving.
- Serve with fresh fruit for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Spanish
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is comforting, fun, and perfect for anyone who loves churros. It uses simple pantry ingredients, comes together quickly, and transforms ordinary pancakes into something memorable and irresistible.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-purpose flour
Flour provides structure and creates soft, fluffy pancakes that hold their shape well.
Granulated sugar
Sugar lightly sweetens the pancake batter without overpowering the cinnamon coating.
Baking powder
Baking powder helps the pancakes rise, giving them a light and airy texture.
Salt
Salt balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Milk
Milk adds moisture and creates a smooth, pourable batter.
Egg
Egg provides structure and richness to the pancakes.
Unsalted butter
Butter adds flavor and tenderness to the batter and helps create a golden exterior.
Vanilla extract
Vanilla adds warmth and depth, complementing the cinnamon sugar.
Ground cinnamon
Cinnamon is essential for the churro-inspired coating and provides signature warmth.
Additional sugar for coating
Sugar mixed with cinnamon creates the classic churro finish.
Directions
Begin by whisking together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes tender.
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour portions of batter onto the surface and cook until bubbles form on the top and the edges look set. Flip and cook until golden and fully cooked through.
While the pancakes are still warm, brush them lightly with melted butter. In a shallow bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon, then gently coat each pancake in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Serve immediately.
Equipment Needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes. The total time is around 25 minutes.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. For best results, reapply a small amount of butter and cinnamon sugar after reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Spanish churro pancakes are easy to customize. Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar for extra warmth. Serve with chocolate dipping sauce for a churro-inspired experience. You can also drizzle caramel sauce or serve with whipped cream for a dessert-style presentation. For a lighter version, coat only one side of each pancake in cinnamon sugar. These options allow you to tailor the dish while keeping its signature flavor.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
These pancakes provide carbohydrates for energy and fats from butter for richness. They are a treat-style breakfast and best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Do not overmix the batter
Overmixing can result in dense pancakes instead of fluffy ones.
Coat while warm
Cinnamon sugar sticks best when pancakes are freshly cooked.
Control heat carefully
Medium heat ensures even cooking without burning.
FAQs
Are churro pancakes very sweet?
They are moderately sweet, with most sweetness coming from the coating.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It is best used fresh, but can rest briefly if needed.
Can I freeze churro pancakes?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
What toppings go well with these pancakes?
Chocolate sauce, maple syrup, or fresh fruit work well.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
Do I need to coat both sides?
No, coating one side works well for lighter sweetness.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Yes, especially with the cinnamon sugar coating.
What pan works best?
A nonstick skillet or griddle is ideal.
Can I add fillings?
Chocolate chips can be added to the batter.
Are these better for breakfast or dessert?
They work beautifully for both.
Conclusion
Spanish churro pancakes are a fun, comforting twist on a breakfast classic. With their fluffy interior, buttery exterior, and signature cinnamon sugar coating, they bring the warmth and charm of churros straight to your table. Easy to prepare and endlessly enjoyable, this recipe is perfect for weekends, brunch gatherings, or anytime you want to turn an ordinary morning into something special.
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