As I flipped through an old cookbook, a wave of nostalgia washed over me—those cherished childhood weekends filled with the smell of fresh pancakes dancing in the air. Today, I’m bringing that beloved memory to life with my Churro Pancakes, which seamlessly blend the comforting warmth of breakfast with a hint of dessert delight. Imagine sinking your teeth into fluffy buttermilk pancakes, each bite generously coated in crunchy cinnamon sugar. Not only are these pancakes a fun and creative twist on a classic, but they also come together quickly—perfect for those busy mornings or lazy brunches with friends. With an indulgent drizzle of chocolate sauce or a splash of condensed milk, these pancakes turn any ordinary day into a celebration. Ready to whip up a batch and share a moment of joy? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Churro Pancakes So Irresistible?

Indulgent Flavors: The blend of fluffy buttermilk pancakes and sweet cinnamon sugar elevates breakfast into a dessert experience you won’t forget.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time, making them ideal for those bustling mornings or relaxed brunch gatherings.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for your family or a gathering of friends, these churro pancakes always impress, reminding everyone of sweet childhood treats.

Versatile Toppings: From a luxurious drizzle of chocolate sauce to a generous scoop of whipped cream, these pancakes can be customized to suit every taste.

Comfy Vibes: Each bite transports you to a cozy café, making these pancakes the perfect choice for anyone longing for a taste of comfort.

Craving more delicious pancake ideas? Check out my Nutella Pancakes Blend or dive into these delightful Chocolate Chip Pancakes.

Churro Pancakes Ingredients

• • Let’s gather the essentials!

For the Pancake Batter

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture to the pancakes; can be exchanged with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Sugar – Adds sweetness to the pancakes and balances flavors; use brown sugar for a deeper taste.
Ground Cinnamon – Contributes warmth and spice, enhancing the churro experience; feel free to adjust to your taste for a stronger cinnamon kick.
Baking Powder – The leavening agent that ensures fluffiness; check for freshness for best results.
Salt – A necessary ingredient to enhance the overall flavor; don’t skip it!
Buttermilk – Enriches the pancakes, making them moist; you can substitute it with any milk, dairy or plant-based.
Egg – Serves to bind ingredients and add protein; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative if desired.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps pancakes moist and aids in cooking; melted coconut oil or butter can work as substitutes.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a delightful depth of flavor; interchangeably use vanilla paste if you have it on hand.

For Coating & Topping

Unsalted Butter (optional) – Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere while adding a rich flavor; omit if you prefer dairy-free.
Cinnamon Sugar – A delightful mixture of sugar and cinnamon to coat the pancakes; you can easily make your own or buy pre-mixed.
Chocolate Sauce or Condensed Milk – These luxurious toppings provide that sweet finish; consider using fresh fruit or whipped cream for variety.

Grab these ingredients, and let’s treat ourselves to a sensational breakfast with these heavenly Churro Pancakes!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Churro Pancakes

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1.5 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will form the dry foundation of your Churro Pancakes. Ensure there are no lumps; the flour should be light and airy, ready to blend with the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until fully blended and smooth. The wet mixture will enrich the pancakes, making them moist and tender, so take a moment to achieve a uniform consistency.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients, using a spatula to fold them together. Stir just until incorporated—be careful not to overmix, as a few lumps are perfectly fine. This ensures your Churro Pancakes remain fluffy, giving them that delightful texture we all love.

Step 4: Preheat the Skillet
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat, allowing it to warm for about 2–3 minutes. Once ready, lightly grease the surface with a drizzle of oil or a small pat of butter. You should hear a soft sizzle when the batter hits the pan—this is the sound of perfection in the making!

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Pour scant ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip gently with a spatula and cook for another minute or so, until golden brown. The pancakes should be fluffy and puffy, enticing you with their irresistible aroma.

Step 6: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Mix ¼ cup of sugar with ½ teaspoon of cinnamon in a shallow dish for the finishing touch. After cooking each pancake, brush it lightly with melted butter, then dredge it in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This creates that signature churro crunch, elevating your Churro Pancakes into a delightful treat.

Step 7: Serve Warm with Toppings
Serve your scrumptious Churro Pancakes immediately while they’re warm. Drizzle with chocolate sauce or condensed milk, or add fresh fruit or whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Each bite invites you to savor the sweet flavors and cozy memories wrapped up in these fabulous pancakes.

Churro Pancakes Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine and make these Churro Pancakes your own with these delightful twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy these pancakes without gluten.
Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk with any plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free delight.
Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a completely vegan pancake.
Brown Sugar Boost: Use brown sugar instead of white for a deeper flavor that enhances the cinnamon goodness.
Cinnamon-Raisin: Fold in a handful of raisins or even chocolate chips for a sweet and chewy texture twist, reminiscent of dessert.
Waffle Transformation: Just reduce the milk to 1 cup, and pour the batter into a waffle maker for an exciting spin on classic waffles.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon sugar for those who enjoy a bit of heat alongside the sweet.
Flavor Infusion: Experiment with different extracts like almond or orange for a unique flavor twist that complements the cinnamon.

Feeling inspired? You might also want to check out my rich Nutella Pancakes Blend or treat yourself to scrumptious Chocolate Chip Pancakes for more delicious breakfast options!

Make Ahead Options

These Churro Pancakes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making breakfast a breeze on busy mornings! You can prepare the pancake batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Additionally, mix the cinnamon sugar topping ahead of time and keep it in a separate container to maintain its crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat your skillet, pour the batter, and cook the pancakes as instructed—just a quick flip and a dusting of cinnamon sugar will have them tasting just as delicious as when freshly made! Enjoy the time saved while delighting your family with this sweet breakfast twist!

Storage Tips for Churro Pancakes

Room Temperature: Store leftover churro pancakes on a plate, covered loosely with foil, for up to 2 hours. This helps maintain their warmth if you plan to eat them soon.

Fridge: Keep any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help preserve their moistness and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze churro pancakes individually, separated by parchment paper, in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy a quick breakfast any time you crave them!

Reheating: Reheat pancakes in a toaster or skillet. For the best results, a medium-low setting works great—just enough to warm through without drying them out. Enjoy the delightful flavors again!

Expert Tips for Churro Pancakes

Don’t Overmix: Ensure you stir the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes instead of light and fluffy churro pancakes.
Preheat Properly: Allow your skillet to preheat on medium-low heat for even cooking. A hot pan can burn the pancakes, while a cool one won’t cook them through.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Check the expiration dates on your baking powder and cinnamon. Fresh ingredients are key for fluffy pancakes and maximum flavor.
Adjust Cooking Time: Every stove is different; watch for bubbles forming on the surface. Flipping too soon might result in undercooked pancakes.
Variety in Toppings: Feel free to change it up! Consider adding nuts, fruit, or even a scoop of ice cream for a dessert twist on your churro pancakes.

What to Serve with Decadent Churro Pancakes?

The perfect pairing can elevate your Churro Pancakes from delightful to unforgettable, helping to create a scrumptious breakfast experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal berries and sliced bananas adds a refreshing burst of flavor and natural sweetness that complements the rich pancakes.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream provides a luscious contrast to the crunchy cinnamon sugar topping, enhancing indulgence.
Maple Syrup: Drizzle real maple syrup over the pancakes for a classic sweet touch that balances the cinnamon, creating comfort in every bite.
Chocolate Sauce: For the chocolate lovers, a warm chocolate sauce creates a decadent layer that takes these pancakes to dessert territory.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully atop warm pancakes, transforming them into a delicious dessert that’s perfect after any meal.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling rich caramel sauce over your Churro Pancakes adds a sweet, buttery counterpoint to the cinnamon, making every bite irresistible.
Chai Latte: Sip on a warm chai latte alongside your pancakes for a cozy pairing that complements the spicy notes of cinnamon.
Iced Coffee: For a refreshing contrast, serve your pancakes with a cold brew or iced coffee, balancing the sweetness with a bold kick.
Cinnamon Butter: Whip softened butter with sugar and extra cinnamon for a sweet spread that echoes the churro theme and adds creaminess with each bite.

Churro Pancakes Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for churro pancakes?
All-purpose flour is perfect for churro pancakes, providing the right structure and texture. If you need a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend—many work wonderfully!

How should I store leftover churro pancakes?
For a quick fix, keep your leftover churro pancakes on a plate covered loosely with foil for up to 2 hours at room temperature. If you want to store them longer, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in a skillet or toaster before serving for the best flavor!

Can I freeze churro pancakes?
Absolutely! To freeze churro pancakes, let them cool completely first. Then, place the pancakes between layers of parchment paper and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat straight from the freezer—it’s as easy as that!

Why did my churro pancakes turn out dense?
A common reason pancakes can turn out dense is overmixing the batter. When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir just until you see no dry flour—lumps are perfectly fine! Also, check that your baking powder is fresh; old leavening agents can greatly affect the fluffiness.

Are churro pancakes suitable for vegans?
Yes, you can easily make churro pancakes vegan! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, set for about 5 minutes) and substitute buttermilk with plant-based milk like almond or soy. Just ensure any optional toppings like butter are also dairy-free.