Why You’ll Love Churro Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
These Churro Cupcakes are everything you love about churros but in a more indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth format. The cupcakes are soft and moist, infused with warm cinnamon spice, and perfectly balanced with the tangy cream cheese frosting. The cinnamon sugar sprinkle and mini churro garnish add a delightful crunch and bakery-style finish. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself to a sweet pick-me-up, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cupcakes:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk
For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping:
Cinnamon sugar (for sprinkling)
Mini churros (for garnish)
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
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Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until just combined.
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Divide the batter evenly among liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
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Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.
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For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add cinnamon, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Beat until light and fluffy.
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Frost cooled cupcakes generously. Optionally, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and top with mini churros for a fun garnish.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 345 kcal per cupcake
Variations
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Dulce de Leche Drizzle: Add a drizzle of dulce de leche over the frosting for a caramel twist.
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Spiced Chocolate Churro Cupcakes: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder and a pinch of cayenne for a Mexican hot chocolate version.
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Filled Cupcakes: Hollow out the centers slightly and fill with cinnamon sugar cream or pastry cream.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
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Mini Cupcakes: Make bite-sized treats by reducing baking time to about 10–12 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best texture, let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before adding frosting. Avoid microwaving frosted cupcakes, as the frosting can melt.
FAQs
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day ahead and frost them right before serving for the freshest texture.
Can I use store-bought frosting?
You can, but homemade cinnamon cream cheese frosting gives the best flavor and texture.
How do I keep the cupcakes moist?
Avoid overbaking and store them properly covered. Adding a small piece of bread in the storage container can help retain moisture.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, replace each egg with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or yogurt for a similar texture.
Can I use salted butter instead?
Yes, but omit the added salt in the cupcake batter to balance the flavor.
How do I make the frosting thicker?
Add more powdered sugar, a few tablespoons at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
What’s the best way to pipe the frosting?
Use a piping bag fitted with a large star tip to create a beautiful swirl that holds up well.
Can I make this recipe into a cake instead of cupcakes?
Absolutely—pour the batter into an 8-inch round pan and bake for about 25–30 minutes.
How do I make the frosting less sweet?
Reduce the powdered sugar slightly and add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
What can I use instead of mini churros for garnish?
Try crushed cinnamon graham crackers or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar for a simpler option.
Conclusion
Churro Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful fusion of a fairground favorite and a classic bakery treat. With their warm cinnamon flavor, fluffy crumb, and luscious frosting, they’re the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether served at a party, holiday gathering, or simply enjoyed with coffee, these cupcakes will satisfy every sweet tooth with a hint of nostalgic charm.
