There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. If you love the crispy crunch of churros but want an easier, bite-sized version, these Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cookies are the perfect solution. Buttery, spiced, and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar crust, they’re a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies—ideal for fall baking, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave a cozy treat.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
✅ Easy to Make – No deep frying or fancy piping required (unlike traditional churros).
✅ Perfect Texture – Crispy edges with a slightly chewy center.
✅ Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – Buttery, cinnamon-spiced, and irresistibly sugary.
✅ Great for Gifting – Package them in jars or boxes for a homemade holiday gift.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened – Provides richness and a tender crumb.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps create a crisp exterior.
- ½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar – Adds moisture and caramel-like depth.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the dough and adds structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
- 2¾ cups (345g) all-purpose flour – The base of the dough.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – The star spice for that classic churro taste.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
(Pro Tip: For extra warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the coating!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep & Preheat
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper (or silicone mats) to prevent sticking.
2. Cream Butter & Sugars
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. (Overmixing can make cookies tough!)
4. Shape & Coat the Dough
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
- In a small bowl, mix the ¼ cup sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon. Roll each dough ball in the mixture until fully coated.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Place dough balls 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden but centers are still soft.
- Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
(Tip: For extra crunch, flatten cookies slightly before baking!)
Serving & Storage Tips
Best Ways to Enjoy:
- Warm with Coffee or Hot Chocolate – The cinnamon sugar melts slightly for an extra cozy treat.
- Dipped in Chocolate – Melt dark or white chocolate for a decadent twist.
- With Ice Cream – Sandwich a scoop of vanilla between two cookies for an easy ice cream sandwich.
How to Store:
- Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for Later: Store unbaked dough balls in the freezer for up to 3 months—bake straight from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes.
FAQ (Common Questions)
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Why are my cookies too flat?
- Butter may have been too soft.
- Dough needed more chilling (try refrigerating for 30 minutes before baking).
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is best for flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.
Final Thoughts
These Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cookies are a simple yet irresistible treat that brings the flavors of a carnival churro into your home. Whether you’re baking for a party, a holiday cookie swap, or just a sweet weekend project, they’re sure to disappear fast!
Craving more fall recipes? Explore delicious desserts and cozy meals at LivelyDish.com.
Now, grab your mixing bowl—it’s time to bake! 🍪✨