Churro Cupcakes

If you’ve ever craved the warm, cinnamon-sugar goodness of churros but wanted it in cupcake form, then you’re in for a treat! These Churro Cupcakes bring all the beloved flavors of the classic Mexican treat into a moist, fluffy cupcake topped with a creamy frosting that’ll have you swooning. The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and rich cream cheese frosting makes these cupcakes a must-try for any dessert lover. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe and bring a little fiesta to your baking adventures!

Why It’s My Go-To

Churro Cupcakes are not just another cupcake recipe; they are the perfect blend of nostalgic flavors and modern baking. The soft, buttery cake is infused with cinnamon, mimicking the delicious churros you might find at a fair or festival. Plus, these cupcakes are surprisingly easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Whether for a birthday party, a potluck, or simply a sweet treat at home, these cupcakes are sure to impress!

What We’re Using

To make these delightful Churro Cupcakes, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned into a measuring cup and leveled-off
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup milk
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 8 oz full-fat, brick-style cream cheese, softened but still cool
• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened but still cool
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• Pinch salt
• 4 to 5 cups confectioners’ sugar
• Caramel sauce, for drizzling (optional)

Before You Start: Equipment

Make sure you have the following equipment handy before you start baking:

• Oven
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Cupcake liners
• Cupcake tin
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Cooling rack
• Microwave-safe bowl (for melting butter)

Mastering Churro Cupcakes: How-To

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an essential step to ensure even baking and a perfect rise for your cupcakes.

Step 2: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set this mixture aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 4: Fill the Cupcake Liners

Line your cupcake tin with cupcake liners. Use a scoop or spoon to fill each liner about two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.

Step 5: Bake the Cupcakes

Place the filled muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine the ¾ cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Once the cupcakes have cooled slightly, brush the tops with melted butter and then dip them into the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, softened unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, starting with 4 cups, until your desired consistency is reached. The frosting should be creamy and spreadable.

Step 8: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a piping bag or a spatula to generously frost each cupcake with the cream cheese frosting.

Step 9: Add the Finishing Touches

For an extra special touch, drizzle caramel sauce over the frosted cupcakes. This step is optional, but it adds a delightful sweetness and a beautiful presentation.

Seasonal Adaptations

Feel free to get creative with your Churro Cupcakes! Here are some seasonal adaptations you can try:

• Fall: Incorporate pumpkin puree into the batter for a pumpkin churro cupcake.
• Winter: Add crushed peppermint to the frosting for a festive twist.
• Spring: Top with fresh strawberries or a strawberry glaze for a fruity flavor.
• Summer: Use a coconut cream frosting to give a tropical flair.

Problems & Prevention

Baking can sometimes come with its challenges, but here are some common problems and how to prevent them:

• Flat Cupcakes: Ensure your baking powder is fresh and your butter is properly softened (not melted).
• Dry Cupcakes: Be careful not to overmix the batter and avoid overbaking. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early.
• Frosting Too Runny: If your cream cheese frosting is too runny, gradually add more confectioners’ sugar until the desired consistency is reached.
• Burnt Tops: If your oven is too hot, consider rotating the cupcakes halfway through baking.

Save It for Later

These Churro Cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be saved for later too! Here are some tips for storing them:

• Store cooled cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep them longer, freeze unfrosted cupcakes. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months.
• Thaw frozen cupcakes at room temperature before frosting.

Popular Questions

Can I use a different type of flour for Churro Cupcakes?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results!

How can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

You can bake the cupcakes a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost them just before serving to keep the frosting fresh.

Can I make these cupcakes mini-sized?

Absolutely! Just reduce the baking time to about 12-15 minutes and keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

What if I don’t like cream cheese frosting?

If cream cheese isn’t your favorite, you can use a simple vanilla buttercream or even a chocolate frosting for a different flavor profile!

Desserts to Finish

If you love Churro Cupcakes, you might also enjoy trying these delightful desserts:

• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Cinnamon Roll Cake
• Tres Leches Cake
• Banana Bread

Let’s Eat

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Churro Cupcakes, it’s time to gather your friends and family to enjoy these sweet treats. Their delightful flavor and impressive presentation will surely make them the star of any dessert table. So grab your apron, put on your favorite playlist, and let’s bake these scrumptious cupcakes that will bring joy and satisfaction to everyone who tries them. Happy baking!