If you adore the crunchy, cinnamon-sugar-coated classic churro but want something softer and fluffier for breakfast, this Churro Pancakes Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine stacks of tender pancakes, filled with warm cinnamon spice and then lovingly coated in a buttery cinnamon-sugar layer that gives you all the sweet nostalgia, but with a tender mouthfeel perfect for any morning. Whether it’s a weekend treat, a special occasion, or just because you deserve some deliciousness, these churro pancakes bring that perfect balance of comfort and flavor everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There is a small bundle of cinnamon sticks tied with twine on the left side near a metal whisk. At the center, a single egg is placed between a small white bowl of milk and a medium white bowl filled with flour, which has a slightly rough texture and some powder on top. Surrounding these are smaller white bowls containing brown sugar, white powdered sugar, and a dark brown spice, possibly cinnamon or nutmeg. A larger white bowl filled with a smooth, creamy white yogurt or sour cream is positioned at the bottom right near a folded beige and black checkered cloth. The setup is clean, organized, and bright, with natural light enhancing the soft colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity; every ingredient plays a key role to build flavor, texture, and that irresistible golden color. From the cinnamon and sugars to the tender milk and butter, each component comes together to make your pancakes taste like churros in pancake form.

All-purpose flour (1¼ cup): The base that creates fluffy, tender pancakes with a delicate crumb.
Granulated sugar (1 tbsp): Adds just a touch of sweetness in the batter.
Brown sugar, packed (1 tbsp): Provides a deep, caramel-like flavor and moist texture.
Cinnamon (1½ tsp): The star spice giving that warm, familiar churro aroma and taste.
Baking soda (2 tsp): Lightens the batter to keep pancakes pillowy and fluffy.
Milk (1 cup): Keeps the batter smooth and helps the pancakes stay tender.
Egg (1): Binds ingredients and adds richness.
Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Adds a subtle fragrance that highlights the cinnamon.
Butter, melted (2 tbsp): Incorporates moisture and a rich flavor into the batter.
Butter to spread on pancakes: Creates the perfect surface for the cinnamon-sugar coating to stick.
Cinnamon-Sugar Topping: ¼ cup sugar mixed with 1 tbsp cinnamon forms the essential churro coating.

How to Make Churro Pancakes Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

Mix the sugar and cinnamon for the signature churro coating in a small bowl until well combined. Pour this out onto a plate and spread it evenly. This sweet, spiced mixture will be the finishing touch that transforms your pancakes into churro-inspired treats. You can always make a bit extra if you want a thicker coating!

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, cinnamon, and baking soda—until evenly combined. Then add the milk and whisk until the batter is smooth with no lumps. Stir in the egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter, mixing gently until everything is just combined. Resist the urge to overmix to keep your pancakes tender and soft. Let the batter rest for about five minutes while your skillet heats up; this rest helps create that perfect fluffy texture.

Step 3: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat — temperature control is key here to get golden color without burning. Pour about ⅓ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until bubbles appear on top and edges look set and golden. Flip carefully and cook an additional 1 to 2 minutes, until the other side is beautifully golden brown. Cooking slowly ensures your pancakes cook through evenly and stay soft.

Step 4: Coat with the Churro Sugar

Right after cooking, spread a thin layer of butter over each warm pancake. Then place it butter-side down onto your plate of cinnamon-sugar mix, gently pressing so it clings to that buttery coating. This step really brings the churro magic to life, giving your pancakes that iconic sweet and spicy crunch on the outside while staying pillowy inside.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Stack your churro pancakes high and serve them right away. If you want to get creative, try drizzling with Nutella, rocking some warm maple syrup, or topping with fresh berries for a fresh contrast. Either way, these pancakes are a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any sweet breakfast craving.

How to Serve Churro Pancakes Recipe

A stack of seven round pancakes sits in the center of a white plate on a white marbled surface, each pancake topped with a fine layer of cinnamon sugar giving them a light brown, slightly grainy texture. Two ripe strawberries with green leaves rest near the bottom right side of the plate. A silver fork lies diagonally on the left side of the plate. In the background, slightly out of focus, is another white plate holding a smaller stack of pancakes and a white ramekin filled with dark syrup. The cozy scene is softly lit and warm, creating a homely breakfast feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These pancakes are irresistible on their own, but you can soften their sweet crunch with fresh fruits like strawberries or banana slices. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce adds a luxurious finish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Nuts like toasted pecans or walnuts also add a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly.

Side Dishes

Keep it simple with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a salty contrast, or serve alongside scrambled eggs for something more substantial. A glass of fresh orange juice or a hot cup of coffee rounds out a perfect, satisfying brunch experience with these churro pancakes.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile the pancakes into towers layered with different toppings between each one, like cream cheese frosting or fruit compote. Try serving mini churro pancakes as bite-sized treats for a party platter or brunch buffet. You could even use the batter to make pancakes in fun shapes with cookie cutters for added whimsy when serving to kids.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover churro pancakes keep well covered in the fridge for up to three days. Stack them with parchment paper in between to keep them from sticking together and maintain their texture. They make a fantastic quick breakfast or snack when reheated gently.

Freezing

You can freeze these pancakes by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transferring to a resealable freezer bag for up to two months. Freezing lets you enjoy a sweet churro pancake anytime without starting from scratch.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated churro pancakes in a toaster oven or skillet over low heat to maintain crispness on the cinnamon-sugar coating. Microwaving works but might soften the outer coating and texture slightly, so use it only if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup for cup. Be sure your baking soda is gluten-free as well. The texture might vary slightly, but the cinnamon-sugar flavor will still shine.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of white sugar mixed with a teaspoon of molasses for similar flavor and moisture, or just use more granulated sugar with a touch less butter to compensate.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, any milk or milk alternative works fine here—whole milk, almond milk, oat milk, or even buttermilk will do. Buttermilk may give a tangier flavor and a bit more lift, which some folks really enjoy.

Why do I have to let the batter rest?

Resting the batter allows the flour to fully hydrate and the baking soda to activate, resulting in extra fluffy pancakes. It also helps dissolve sugar for a smoother texture without overmixing.

How do I get the cinnamon-sugar coating to stick well?

Spreading melted butter on the warm pancakes creates a sticky surface so the cinnamon-sugar adheres nicely. If you skip this, the coating won’t cling properly, and you’ll lose that signature churro crunch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to take your breakfast game to the next level, you simply have to try this Churro Pancakes Recipe. It’s one of those feel-good dishes that brings joy and a little bit of magic with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these pancakes will have everyone smiling, digging in, and craving more. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

Churro Pancakes Recipe