Cinnamon Sugar Churro Waffles: A Beginner-Friendly Twist on a Classic Treat

Waffles are a breakfast favorite, but when combined with the flavors of a churro, they transform into a sweet, crispy, and indulgent treat. These cinnamon sugar churro waffles bring together the best of both worlds, offering a golden, crispy texture coated in a fragrant cinnamon-sugar mixture. Whether you are making them for a weekend brunch, a quick dessert, or a special occasion, they are easy enough for beginners to master while delivering gourmet-level flavor.

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This recipe is perfect for those who want to elevate their waffle game without needing advanced cooking skills. It requires basic pantry ingredients, a waffle maker, and a few simple techniques to achieve the ideal balance of crispy and fluffy. The addition of cinnamon and sugar gives them a nostalgic, fairground-style taste, while a buttery coating ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Unlike traditional churros, which require deep frying, these waffles provide a similar experience with less mess and effort.

Ingredients and Preparation

To make these cinnamon sugar churro waffles, you will need a handful of common ingredients. This recipe uses a simple waffle batter that is enhanced with warm spices and finished with a sweet coating.

Ingredients

For the waffle batter:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 large eggs
• 1¾ cups milk
• ½ cup melted butter or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the churro coating:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup melted butter

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Flour: If you prefer a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Milk: Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can be substituted for dairy milk.
• Butter: Coconut oil or a neutral oil like avocado oil can be used instead.
• Sweetener: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute if needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease it with non-stick spray or a brush of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Mix the wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or whisk. Mix until just combined; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to dense waffles.
5. Cook the waffles. Pour the batter into the preheated waffle maker, spreading it evenly. Close the lid and cook according to your waffle maker’s instructions, usually about 3 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
6. Prepare the churro coating. In a shallow dish, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together. In a separate small bowl, melt the butter.
7. Coat the waffles. Once a waffle is fully cooked, brush both sides with melted butter and immediately press it into the cinnamon sugar mixture. Coat evenly, ensuring a good balance of sweetness on all sides.
8. Serve immediately. These waffles taste best fresh, with a warm, crispy texture and a fragrant cinnamon sugar coating.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Do not overmix the batter. Stir just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, making the waffles chewy instead of light and fluffy.
• Let the waffle maker preheat fully. A properly heated waffle maker ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Adjust cooking time based on your waffle maker. Some models cook hotter than others, so keep an eye on the first waffle and adjust as needed.
• For extra crispiness, cook slightly longer. If you prefer crispier waffles, leave them in the waffle maker for an extra minute or two.
• Brush with butter immediately. This helps the cinnamon sugar mixture stick properly. If the waffles cool too much before coating, the sugar may not adhere well.

Serving Suggestions

These churro waffles are delicious on their own but can be elevated with various toppings and accompaniments.

• Dipping sauces: Serve with warm chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence.
• Fresh fruit: Sliced strawberries, bananas, or a handful of berries add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of homemade or store-bought whipped cream enhances the texture and adds a creamy balance.
• Nut toppings: Sprinkle chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for a bit of crunch.
• Ice cream: For a dessert-style twist, top with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them properly to maintain their texture and flavor.

• Refrigeration: Store cooled waffles in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in a toaster or oven to crisp them up.
• Freezing: Place waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to two months. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving: While convenient, microwaving can make the waffles soft and soggy instead of crisp.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

• Waffles are too soft: If the waffles turn out too soft, they may need a bit more cooking time. Increase the cooking duration slightly, or place cooked waffles in a warm oven (200°F) for a few minutes to crisp up.
• Sugar does not stick well: If the cinnamon sugar mixture does not adhere properly, ensure the waffles are still warm and that you are using enough melted butter.
• Waffles stick to the iron: Always grease the waffle maker before adding batter, even if it claims to be non-stick. If sticking is an issue, the batter may be too thick—try adding a splash of milk.
• Uneven cooking: If some areas of the waffle are overcooked while others remain underdone, ensure the batter is spread evenly before closing the lid.

Conclusion

Cinnamon sugar churro waffles offer a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of churros with the convenience of a waffle maker. They are easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, making them ideal for beginner cooks. The combination of crispy waffles coated in warm cinnamon sugar creates a satisfying treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

For those who love experimenting in the kitchen, this recipe also provides opportunities to customize flavors and textures. Whether you prefer a softer or crispier waffle, different toppings, or creative dipping sauces, these waffles serve as a versatile base for various adaptations.

If you try this recipe, share your experience and any personal twists you made. Cooking is all about creativity and enjoyment, and there is always something new to learn with each dish.