If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the warm, cinnamon-sugar magic of churros in pancake form, you’re in for a treat. Churro pancakes combine the fluffy softness of classic pancakes with the crispy, sweet coating of churros, creating a breakfast (or dessert!) that feels like a celebration.
Whether you’re making them for a cozy Sunday brunch, a special birthday breakfast, or just to satisfy your sweet cravings, this recipe will give you perfectly golden, fluffy pancakes with that signature churro crunch.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fluffy + Crispy Combo – Light pancakes coated in cinnamon sugar.
- Easy Ingredients – No complicated steps; just pantry basics.
- Versatile – Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a party snack.
- Customizable – Add fillings, drizzle sauces, or make it vegan/gluten-free.
🛒 Ingredients (With Purpose)
For Pancakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – The base for fluffy structure.
- 2 tbsp sugar – Sweetness in the batter.
- 2 tsp baking powder – Creates airy, soft pancakes.
- 1/4 tsp salt – Balances flavors.
- 1 cup milk – Keeps batter smooth and moist.
- 1 large egg – Adds richness and binds ingredients.
- 2 tbsp melted butter (or oil) – Moisture + flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Warm depth of flavor.
For Churro Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 tbsp melted butter (to brush pancakes before coating)
Optional Toppings:
- Chocolate sauce, dulce de leche, whipped cream, Nutella, or caramel drizzle.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pancake Batter
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Slowly combine wet and dry ingredients. Mix until smooth but do not overmix (this keeps pancakes fluffy).
2. Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a nonstick pan or griddle on medium heat.
- Grease lightly with butter or oil.
- Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake.
- Cook until bubbles form on top (about 2 minutes), then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes.
3. Churro Coating
- Mix cinnamon and sugar in a shallow bowl.
- Brush each warm pancake with melted butter.
- Toss or sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar.
4. Serve & Enjoy
Stack pancakes, drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel, and serve warm.
🔥 Pro Tips for Perfect Churro Pancakes
- Keep pancakes warm: Place cooked pancakes in a 200°F (95°C) oven until ready to coat.
- Don’t skip the butter brushing: It helps cinnamon sugar stick like churro coating.
- Crispier finish: After coating, lightly sear pancakes back on the skillet for 10 seconds per side.
🍫 Serving Ideas
- Classic Churro Style – With chocolate dipping sauce.
- Dessert Pancakes – Add whipped cream + Nutella drizzle.
- Party Version – Make mini churro pancake bites on skewers.
- Luxury Brunch – Top with vanilla ice cream + caramel sauce.
🥡 Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in airtight container up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Layer between parchment paper, freeze up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in oven or air fryer for a crispier finish (avoid microwave if you want churro crunch).
🌱 Variations & Customizations
- Vegan Churro Pancakes: Use plant milk + flax egg + coconut oil.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute with gluten-free flour blend.
- Stuffed Pancakes: Add cream cheese or Nutella inside the batter before cooking.
- Spiced Upgrade: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to coating.
📊 Nutritional Info (per pancake, approx.)
- Calories: 190
- Carbs: 27g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 12g
❓ FAQ (For Readers + SEO Boost)
Q1. Can I make churro pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, cook them in advance and reheat in the oven for best results. Coat with cinnamon sugar only before serving.
Q2. How do I keep the sugar coating from melting?
Coat pancakes while warm, not hot. Excess steam can dissolve the sugar.
Q3. Can I use pancake mix instead of homemade batter?
Absolutely. Just prepare as directed and follow churro-coating steps.
Q4. What sauce goes best with churro pancakes?
Traditional chocolate ganache or dulce de leche pairs beautifully.
🏆 Final Thoughts
Churro pancakes are more than just a breakfast—they’re a flavor-packed experience that combines comfort food with a touch of indulgence. With this step-by-step recipe, pro tips, and creative variations, you can whip up pancakes that will impress your family, guests, or even just treat yourself.
✨ Next time you’re craving something sweet and cozy, skip the diner and make these homemade churro pancakes instead—you’ll never look at pancakes the same way again.
