Easy Churro Cupcakes Recipe

Easy Churro Cupcakes capture the irresistible flavor of classic churros—warm cinnamon sugar, tender crumb, and a hint of vanilla—all in a soft, fluffy cupcake. Topped with a cinnamon-spiced frosting and a dusting of sugar, they’re the perfect fusion of carnival fun and cupcake charm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

this Recipe

These cupcakes are quick, simple, and bursting with cinnamon-sugar flavor. They’re soft and moist, topped with creamy frosting, and give all the nostalgic churro vibes without deep frying. Perfect for birthdays, fiestas, or anytime you need a cinnamon fix.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cupcakes:
all-purpose floursugarunsalted buttereggsvanilla extractmilkbaking powderground cinnamonpinch of salt

For the frosting:
unsalted butterpowdered sugarvanilla extractground cinnamonheavy cream or milkpinch of salt

For the topping:
granulated sugarground cinnamonmini churros or cinnamon sticks (optional garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.

Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling about 2/3 full.

Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.

To make the frosting, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt.

Add milk or cream a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Pipe or spread frosting on cooled cupcakes.

Mix cinnamon and sugar together and sprinkle over frosting. Garnish with a mini churro or cinnamon stick if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 12 cupcakes.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 18–20 minutesCooling and decorating time: 30 minutesTotal time: 1 hour

Variations

Fill the center with dulce de leche or chocolate ganache for a surprise.
Use cream cheese frosting with cinnamon for extra tang.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for depth.
Top with caramel drizzle for added indulgence.

storage/reheating

Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.Bring to room temperature before serving.Do not freeze frosted cupcakes; freeze unfrosted and frost later.

FAQs

Do these really taste like churros?
Yes! The cinnamon sugar, vanilla, and soft texture bring all the churro flavor—without the fryer.

Can I make them ahead?
Yes, bake cupcakes a day ahead and frost before serving.

Can I skip the frosting?
You can, but it adds to the churro cupcake experience.

What’s the best flour to use?
All-purpose flour works best for structure and softness.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

How do I get them extra fluffy?
Cream the butter and sugar well and don’t overmix the batter.

Do I need a piping bag for frosting?
No, you can simply spread it with a spatula if preferred.

Can I use boxed cake mix?
Yes, use vanilla or yellow cake mix and add cinnamon for a shortcut.

Can I make mini cupcakes?
Yes, adjust baking time to 10–12 minutes.

Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely—kids love the churro flavor and fun topping!

Conclusion

Easy Churro Cupcakes are a fun, flavorful dessert that combines the cozy taste of cinnamon sugar with the soft bite of a cupcake. Quick to make and impossible to resist, these sweet treats are perfect for any celebration or churro lover in your life.

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