Cinnamon Sugar Churro Pancakes are the perfect fusion of two comfort food classics: soft, fluffy pancakes and crispy, cinnamon-coated churros. This recipe takes the warm, nostalgic flavors of a traditional churro and transforms them into an indulgent breakfast or brunch dish that feels special yet familiar. Each pancake is tender on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and coated in a generous layer of cinnamon sugar that melts slightly into the surface for a bakery-style finish.
What makes these pancakes truly stand out is their versatility. They can be served as a cozy weekend breakfast, a celebratory Valentine morning treat, or even a dessert-style dish paired with chocolate sauce or sweetened condensed milk. The recipe is approachable for home cooks of all levels, requiring simple pantry ingredients and straightforward steps, while delivering a result that feels elevated and indulgent.
Unlike traditional churros, which require frying and careful temperature control, these pancakes capture the same flavor experience without the complexity. The cinnamon sugar coating provides the signature churro crunch, while the pancake base remains soft, fluffy, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or simply treating yourself, Cinnamon Sugar Churro Pancakes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, sweetness, and comfort to the table.
Why Cinnamon Sugar Churro Pancakes Are So Popular
The popularity of Cinnamon Sugar Churro Pancakes comes from their ability to combine nostalgia with creativity. Churros are widely loved for their crisp exterior and warm cinnamon sugar coating, while pancakes are a breakfast staple found in nearly every household. Bringing these two together creates a dish that feels familiar yet exciting, indulgent yet comforting.
Social media has also played a significant role in elevating this recipe’s popularity. Visually, these pancakes are striking—the golden-brown surfaces coated in cinnamon sugar create a bakery-worthy presentation that performs exceptionally well on platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. Their appeal isn’t just visual, though; the flavor combination is universally loved, making them an easy hit with both adults and children.
Another reason these pancakes resonate so strongly is their adaptability. They can be dressed up with toppings like chocolate sauce, caramel drizzle, or fresh fruit, or kept simple with just cinnamon sugar. This flexibility allows them to fit seamlessly into breakfast, brunch, or dessert categories, making them a versatile recipe that home cooks return to again and again.
What Makes This Recipe Different
Unlike many sweet pancake recipes that rely heavily on syrups or fillings, Cinnamon Sugar Churro Pancakes focus on texture as much as flavor. The pancake batter itself is intentionally balanced—not overly sweet—so that the cinnamon sugar coating can shine without overwhelming the dish. This creates a layered eating experience: soft, fluffy pancake interior followed by a lightly crisp, sugary exterior.
Another key difference is the method used to achieve the churro-style coating. Rather than mixing cinnamon sugar directly into the batter, the pancakes are brushed with butter after cooking and then coated. This technique mimics the traditional churro process, where hot dough is rolled in sugar, allowing the coating to adhere properly and create a slightly crisp finish.
This recipe also avoids frying, making it more accessible and less intimidating for home cooks. By using a nonstick skillet and controlled heat, you get consistent results without the need for specialized equipment or large amounts of oil. The result is a dish that feels indulgent but remains practical and approachable.
Ingredients Overview
For the Pancakes
All-purpose flour forms the foundation of the batter, providing structure while remaining tender when mixed gently. Granulated sugar adds a subtle sweetness without overpowering the cinnamon flavors. Ground cinnamon is incorporated directly into the batter, ensuring warmth and spice throughout every bite. Baking powder creates lift, giving the pancakes their fluffy texture, while salt balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Milk or buttermilk hydrates the batter and contributes to softness. Buttermilk is especially effective for creating tender pancakes due to its slight acidity. A single egg binds the ingredients together and adds richness, while neutral oil keeps the pancakes moist without affecting flavor. Vanilla extract rounds out the batter with subtle sweetness and depth.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Granulated sugar and ground cinnamon combine to create the signature churro-style coating. Melted butter is brushed onto the pancakes while they’re still warm, allowing the cinnamon sugar to stick evenly and melt slightly into the surface.
For Serving
Chocolate sauce or sweetened condensed milk adds richness and contrast to the cinnamon sugar coating. These toppings are optional but highly recommended for a truly indulgent experience.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Pancake Batter
Begin by whisking together the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. This includes the flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures even distribution and consistent flavor throughout the batter.
In a separate bowl, whisk the wet ingredients: milk, egg, oil, and vanilla extract. Mixing these separately helps prevent overworking the batter once combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy; overmixing can lead to dense, tough pancakes. Allow the batter to rest briefly while heating the skillet, which helps improve texture.
Cooking the Pancakes
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease it with oil or butter. Pour approximately ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet, leaving space between each one. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, then flip and cook until golden brown.
Repeat with the remaining batter, adjusting heat as needed to prevent burning. Keeping the heat moderate ensures even cooking and a soft interior.
Creating the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the pancakes are cooking, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Melt the butter in a separate dish.
As each pancake finishes cooking, brush it lightly with melted butter on both sides, then coat generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture. The warmth of the pancake allows the sugar to adhere and melt slightly, creating the churro-style finish.
Serving
Serve the pancakes immediately while warm. Drizzle with chocolate sauce or sweetened condensed milk, or serve toppings on the side for customization.
Texture and Flavor Experience
Cinnamon Sugar Churro Pancakes offer a contrast of textures that makes them especially satisfying. The interior is soft, fluffy, and tender, while the exterior coating provides a subtle crunch and sweetness. The cinnamon flavor is warm and aromatic without being overpowering, and the sugar coating adds just enough crispness to mimic a classic churro.
When paired with chocolate sauce or condensed milk, the pancakes become even more indulgent, with rich sweetness balancing the spice of the cinnamon. Each bite feels comforting, nostalgic, and satisfying.
Tips for Perfect Churro Pancakes
Cooking pancakes over medium-low heat is essential for even browning and proper texture. High heat can cause the outside to brown too quickly while leaving the inside undercooked.
Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can result in dense pancakes. Gentle stirring is key.
Brush pancakes with butter while they’re still warm so the cinnamon sugar sticks properly. Waiting too long can cause the coating to slide off rather than adhere.
Use fresh ground cinnamon for the best flavor, as older spices tend to lose potency.
Variations and Customizations
Stuffed Churro Pancakes
Add chocolate chips, dulce de leche, or cream cheese between layers of batter while cooking for a filled version.
Mini Churro Pancakes
Make smaller pancakes for brunch platters or parties. These are perfect for dipping into chocolate sauce.
Vegan Option
Substitute plant-based milk, use a flax egg, and replace butter with a vegan alternative.
Extra Crispy Finish
After coating, briefly return the pancakes to a warm skillet for a few seconds per side to enhance crispness.
Serving Ideas
Cinnamon Sugar Churro Pancakes pair well with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or whipped cream. For a Valentine-inspired presentation, serve with strawberries and a drizzle of chocolate. Coffee, hot chocolate, or warm milk make excellent beverage pairings.
These pancakes can also be served as a dessert, paired with vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.
Storage and Reheating
While these pancakes are best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to preserve texture. Microwaving is not recommended, as it can soften the cinnamon sugar coating.
Freezing is not ideal for this recipe, as the coating may become soggy when thawed.
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Pancake)
Calories: 106 kcal
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Protein: 3 g
Fat: 2 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 6 g
Values may vary depending on toppings and portion size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the batter fresh, as baking powder loses effectiveness over time.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. A half-and-half blend works best.
Is butter required for the coating?
Butter helps the cinnamon sugar adhere properly, but you can reduce the amount if desired.
Are these pancakes very sweet?
They are moderately sweet, similar to a traditional churro.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Special Occasions
Cinnamon Sugar Churro Pancakes feel celebratory without being complicated. They’re ideal for Valentine mornings, weekend brunches, birthdays, or anytime you want breakfast to feel special. Their visual appeal and comforting flavor make them a standout dish that feels thoughtful and indulgent.
Cinnamon Sugar Churro Pancakes bring together the best elements of two beloved treats in one simple, satisfying recipe. With their fluffy interior, crisp cinnamon sugar coating, and endless topping possibilities, they offer a bakery-style experience that’s easy to recreate at home.
Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these pancakes deliver warmth, nostalgia, and indulgence in every bite. Once you make them, they’re sure to become a repeat favorite—perfect for slow mornings, special occasions, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and comforting.
Cinnamon Sugar Churro Pancakes
Ingredients
- For the Pancakes
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1½ –2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups buttermilk or regular milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil plus more for cooking
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Churro Coating & Serving
- 2 tablespoons butter melted (optional but recommended)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or more to taste
- Chocolate sauce or sweetened condensed milk for serving
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease it.
- Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes, until bubbles form and the bottom is golden. Flip and cook for another 30–60 seconds. Repeat with remaining batter.
- In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping.
- Brush each warm pancake lightly with melted butter, then coat with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve warm with chocolate sauce or condensed milk drizzled on top.
Notes
