Churro Waffles Recipe
If you have a serious sweet tooth and a love for everything crispy and cinnamon-spiced, you are going to absolutely adore these Churro Waffles. This recipe takes the warm, crunchy goodness of traditional churros and transforms it into golden, fluffy waffles that are coated in cinnamon sugar and can be drizzled with rich caramel or chocolate sauce. Each bite offers that perfect balance of soft inside and crisp exterior, making these waffles a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or even an indulgent dessert. Once you try Churro Waffles, they’re sure to become your go-to when you want a special, comforting sweet snack that feels both classic and uniquely fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Churro Waffles lies in their simple yet thoughtful ingredient list. Each component plays a distinct role in delivering the perfect texture and that unmistakable churro flavor. From the fragrant cinnamon in the batter to the luscious melted butter that helps the cinnamon sugar stick, every element enhances the final experience.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation for the waffles, providing structure and tenderness.
- 2 tbsp sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the batter itself.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures the waffles rise beautifully and become light and fluffy.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: The key spice that gives these waffles their signature churro taste.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness to the batter.
- ¾ cup milk: Provides moisture and helps create a smooth batter consistency.
- 2 tbsp melted butter or oil: Adds tenderness and helps the waffles crisp up nicely.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- ¼ cup sugar (for coating): Combined with cinnamon to give the final churro sugar crunch.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating): Amplifies the cinnamon sugar coating classic to churros.
- Optional: melted chocolate or caramel sauce for drizzling: Adds an extra layer of indulgence to top off your creation.
How to Make Churro Waffles
Step 1: Prepare the waffle batter
Start by whisking together the dry ingredients in one bowl: flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients — egg, milk, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract. Then, gently combine the wet with the dry until you have a smooth batter. This careful blending ensures your waffles come out tender yet crisp, richly spiced with cinnamon throughout.
Step 2: Cook the waffles
Preheat your waffle iron and give it a light grease with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Pour enough batter onto the iron to fill the waffles without overflowing, then close and cook according to your waffle maker’s instructions. You are aiming for golden brown, crispy, and heavenly smelling waffles. The smell alone will get everyone excited for this churro-inspired treat!
Step 3: Coat with cinnamon sugar
While the waffles are still hot, prep a small bowl with sugar and cinnamon mixed together. If you like, brush the waffles lightly with melted butter to help the cinnamon sugar adhere perfectly, mimicking that classic churro coating. Then, sprinkle or press the cinnamon sugar mixture onto the surface while the waffles are warm and inviting.
Step 4: Serve with optional drizzles
The final touch is all yours. Drizzle on warm melted chocolate or caramel sauce to add a decadent dimension that takes these Churro Waffles to the next level. Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, crispy, cinnamon-sugary goodness that bites like a churro but delights like a waffle.
How to Serve Churro Waffles
Garnishes
These Churro Waffles shine best with simple, complementary garnishes. A dusting of powdered sugar can add a soft sweetness and a pretty finish. Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries offer a tart contrast to the warmth and richness. You can also serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent dessert experience or sprinkle chopped nuts for a pleasant crunch.
Side Dishes
If you’re serving these for brunch, pair your Churro Waffles with some crispy bacon or sausage links to balance the sweetness. A fresh fruit salad or yogurt parfait on the side can also lighten the meal and add bursts of freshness. For a kid-friendly twist, serve with bowls of dipping sauces such as honey, chocolate, or strawberry jam.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the plate! Try stacking the waffles with layers of whipped cream and sliced bananas or layering them in a parfait-style glass with caramel sauce and crushed nuts. You can even cut the waffles into sticks and serve churro waffle fingers along with dipping sauces for a fun party appetizer or snack. The playful shapes and layers make these a crowd-pleaser every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Churro Waffles keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their crispness, it’s best to separate the waffles with parchment paper so they don’t stick together or get soggy. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious texture even after storing.
Freezing
If you want to keep these treats longer, freeze individual waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. This makes it easy to have your churro fix ready anytime without extra prep.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated waffles by toasting them in a toaster or toaster oven, which helps restore that crisp exterior while warming the inside. You can also use a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 10 minutes. Avoid using a microwave if you want to keep the crispness intact, as it tends to make waffles soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a gluten-free flour for Churro Waffles?
Absolutely! Gluten-free all-purpose flour blends work well in this recipe with slight adjustments to liquid ratios if needed. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free to maintain the waffles’ rise and texture.
What’s the best way to make the cinnamon sugar stick?
Brushing the hot waffles lightly with melted butter before coating them in cinnamon sugar is the key to achieving that perfect churro-like coating. The butter acts as an adhesive and adds to the flavor as well.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking, as some ingredients may settle. Freshly made batter, however, tends to yield the fluffiest waffles.
Are Churro Waffles suitable for breakfast or dessert?
They are wonderfully versatile! Serve them as a decadent breakfast treat or style them with ice cream and sauces for dessert. Their sweet and cinnamon-infused flavor makes them perfect for any time you want something special.
Can I skip the chocolate or caramel drizzle?
Definitely! The churro sugar coating is delicious on its own. The drizzles are optional enhancements if you want to add an extra layer of richness or an attractive presentation touch.
Final Thoughts
If you love the idea of crispy, cinnamon-sugar coated treats with a fluffy twist, these Churro Waffles are calling your name. They bring together the best of churros and waffles in a simple, accessible recipe that’s perfect for sharing (or not!). Once you’ve made them, you’ll find yourself dreaming up all sorts of ways to enjoy this sweet, warm delight. Go ahead, give these waffles a try, and watch them become a new favorite on your table!
