If you love churros and pancakes, this recipe brings the best of both worlds straight to your breakfast table. These Spanish Churro Pancakes are fluffy on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and coated in warm cinnamon sugar that melts into every bite. They’re perfect for slow weekend mornings, special brunches with family, or anytime you want a comforting treat that feels a little indulgent without being complicated.
Inspired by classic Spanish churros, this easy pancake recipe delivers cozy flavors and a delightful texture that makes breakfast feel like a celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy, ready in just 30 minutes
- Soft, fluffy pancakes with a churro-style cinnamon sugar finish
- Beginner-friendly with simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for brunch, holidays, or special breakfasts
- Customizable with sauces, fruits, or extra toppings
Ingredients
Pancake Batter
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Creates a light, fluffy pancake base
- Granulated sugar (2 tbsp): Adds gentle sweetness
- Baking powder (1 tsp): Helps the pancakes rise
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances the sweetness
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 tsp): Adds warm churro flavor
- Milk (1 cup): Provides moisture and softness
- Large egg (1): Binds the batter
- Unsalted butter, melted (2 tbsp): Adds richness and flavor
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances sweetness and aroma
- Butter or oil (for cooking): Prevents sticking and adds crisp edges
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Classic churro coating
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Warm and fragrant
How to Make Spanish Churro Pancakes
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 3: Make the Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. The batter may be slightly lumpy—avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes fluffy.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
Step 5: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
While the pancakes cook, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. As soon as each pancake comes off the skillet, sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar so it sticks to the warm surface.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Serve immediately with extra butter, maple syrup, or your favorite toppings.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix the batter or the pancakes may turn dense
- Keep heat at medium to prevent burning the cinnamon sugar
- Sprinkle the topping while pancakes are hot for best adhesion
- Use a non-stick pan for even browning
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or spoon
- Non-stick skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Churro Pancakes: Serve with warm chocolate sauce for dipping
- Apple Cinnamon: Add finely diced apples to the batter
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder and slightly more milk
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and vegan butter
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fresh berries or sliced bananas
- Pair with whipped cream or vanilla yogurt
- Add a dusting of powdered sugar for presentation
- Enjoy with coffee, hot chocolate, or café con leche
FAQs
Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can reheat them gently in a skillet or microwave, but they’re best fresh.
Can I freeze churro pancakes?
Yes. Freeze without the topping and reheat, then add cinnamon sugar before serving.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Cook on slightly higher heat and use a bit more butter in the pan, watching closely.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the pancakes may be slightly denser. You can use half whole wheat and half all-purpose.
What toppings go best with these pancakes?
Chocolate sauce, caramel, fruit, whipped cream, or maple syrup all work beautifully.
Final Thoughts
These Spanish Churro Pancakes turn an ordinary breakfast into something truly special. With their fluffy centers, golden edges, and irresistible cinnamon sugar coating, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite for brunch, holidays, or cozy mornings at home. Try them once, and don’t be surprised if they make their way into your regular breakfast rotation.
Print
Spanish Churro Pancakes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
These Spanish Churro Pancakes are fluffy on the inside with a lightly crisp exterior, coated in warm cinnamon sugar for that classic churro-inspired flavor. An indulgent yet simple option for brunch or a special breakfast.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until combined.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease.
- Pour about 1/4 cup batter per pancake onto the skillet.
- Cook until bubbles form and edges set, about 2–3 minutes.
- Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
- Mix sugar and cinnamon for topping.
- Sprinkle pancakes with cinnamon sugar while warm.
- Serve immediately with butter, syrup, or chocolate sauce.
Notes
- Cook on slightly higher heat for extra crisp edges, watching closely.
- Serve with chocolate sauce for a true churro-style experience.
- Adjust milk or flour for thicker or thinner pancakes.
- Best enjoyed fresh and warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Spanish-Inspired