Churro Cake Recipe: A Sweet Cinnamon Treat You’ll Love

Who can resist the warm, sugary goodness of a churro? Now imagine that delightful cinnamon-sugar flavor transformed into a soft, fluffy churro cake! This recipe takes all the best parts of the classic Spanish and Mexican treat and turns them into an easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving something sweet for a family gathering, a birthday, or just because—you’ll love the combination of buttery cake, fragrant cinnamon, and a crispy sugar coating.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to make this indulgent churro-inspired cake, from the key ingredients to step-by-step instructions. Plus, we’ll share expert tips to ensure your cake turns out soft, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible. Let’s get baking!

What Makes This Churro Cake So Irresistible?

There’s something magical about the combination of cinnamon, sugar, and soft, buttery cake that makes this churro cake absolutely irresistible. Inspired by the classic Spanish and Mexican churros, this cake takes everything we love about the traditional fried treat and transforms it into a baked, fluffy dessert that’s easy to make at home.

1. The Perfect Blend of Cinnamon and Sugar

One of the key elements of this cake is its signature cinnamon-sugar coating, just like traditional churros. The warm spice of cinnamon pairs beautifully with the sweetness of sugar, creating a rich, comforting flavor in every bite. This signature layer gives the cake its classic churro-like taste and texture.

2. Soft and Moist Cake with a Slightly Crispy Finish

Unlike actual churros, which are deep-fried for a crispy exterior, this churro cake achieves a delicate balance of textures. The inside remains soft, moist, and fluffy, while the cinnamon-sugar topping adds a slightly crisp, caramelized layer that mimics the crunch of a real churro.

3. Inspired by Traditional Spanish and Mexican Desserts

Churros are a beloved treat in Spain, Mexico, and other Latin American countries, often enjoyed with a cup of rich hot chocolate or dulce de leche. This cake captures the essence of that indulgent experience and brings it into a baked, shareable format, making it perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a special weeknight treat.

4. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

One of the best things about this churro cake is that it doesn’t require fancy ingredients. You’ll likely already have most of them in your pantry—flour, sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla, and cinnamon. Despite its simplicity, the result is a cake that’s packed with flavor and texture, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.

5. A Versatile Dessert for Any Occasion

Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday celebration, or just a weekend indulgence, this churro cake is a fantastic choice. It pairs well with a cup of coffee, a drizzle of dulce de leche, or a dollop of whipped cream, making it a versatile dessert that can be customized to your taste.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Churro Cake

A great churro cake starts with simple, high-quality ingredients that work together to create a soft, moist, and flavorful dessert. Each component plays an important role in delivering the signature cinnamon-sugar flavor and irresistible texture that make this cake so special. Below, we’ll break down the key ingredients you’ll need, along with some useful substitutions and variations.

1. The Cake Base: Soft, Fluffy, and Buttery

The foundation of any great cake is a well-balanced batter that results in a light yet rich texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Flour – All-purpose flour provides structure to the cake. If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute.
• Baking Powder – This leavening agent helps the cake rise, giving it that light and airy texture.
• Butter – Adds richness and moisture while enhancing the buttery, indulgent flavor of the cake. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute with vegan butter or coconut oil.
• Sugar – Granulated sugar sweetens the cake while also contributing to its tenderness. You can experiment with brown sugar for a deeper caramel-like flavor.
• Eggs – Essential for structure, eggs help bind the ingredients together while keeping the cake soft and moist.
• Milk – Adds moisture and creates a smoother batter. You can substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor and complements the warmth of the cinnamon.

2. The Signature Churro Flavor: Cinnamon and Sugar

What sets this cake apart is its classic churro-inspired cinnamon-sugar coating. These ingredients are key:

• Ground Cinnamon – The star ingredient that gives this cake its warm, slightly spicy depth of flavor. A fresh, high-quality cinnamon will yield the best results.
• Granulated Sugar – Used both in the batter and as a coating to create that sweet, slightly crispy texture on the outside of the cake.

3. The Topping: The Perfect Churro-Like Finish

To truly replicate the taste and texture of a churro, the cake is finished with a buttery cinnamon-sugar coating. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Melted Butter – Brushed onto the cake’s surface, helping the cinnamon sugar stick while adding a rich, caramelized flavor.
• Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture – A final dusting of this mixture gives the cake its signature churro-like appearance and flavor.

4. Optional Frosting and Toppings for Extra Indulgence

While this churro cake is delicious on its own, you can take it to the next level with a creamy, sweet topping:

• Dulce de Leche Drizzle – A popular churro pairing, this thick caramel-like sauce adds extra sweetness and richness.
• Buttercream Frosting – A cinnamon-spiced buttercream can create a bakery-style presentation.
• Chocolate Ganache – If you love dipping your churros in chocolate, a drizzle of dark or milk chocolate ganache is a great addition.
• Whipped Cream – A light and airy topping to balance the sweetness of the cake.

5. Ingredient Swaps and Variations

Want to customize your churro cake? Here are some fun variations:

• Gluten-Free Version – Use a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour instead of regular flour.
• Dairy-Free Alternative – Swap butter for vegan butter or coconut oil, and replace milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk.
• Spice it Up – Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for extra depth.
• Stuffed Churro Cake – Swirl dulce de leche or chocolate into the batter for a surprise filling.

How to Make Churro Cake Step by Step

Making a churro cake at home is easier than you might think! With just a few simple steps, you can create a soft, fluffy cake coated in cinnamon-sugar goodness—just like the classic churro, but in cake form. Follow this detailed, step-by-step guide to ensure your churro cake turns out moist, flavorful, and irresistible.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Preheat the Oven

Before you start mixing, it’s important to have everything measured and ready to go for a smooth baking process.

What You Need to Do:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
• Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or Bundt pan with butter or nonstick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
• Gather and measure all your ingredients (flour, sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, etc.) to avoid last-minute scrambling.

Step 2: Make the Churro Cake Batter

The key to a soft and fluffy cake is properly mixing the ingredients while maintaining airiness.

How to Mix the Batter:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients – flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps create a tender texture.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.
4. Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix, as it can make the cake dense.

Pro Tip: If you want a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of dulce de leche or a splash of buttermilk for extra moisture.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden and Fluffy

Now, it’s time to bake your cake to churro perfection.

Baking Instructions:

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
2. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
3. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tip: If using a Bundt pan, make sure to grease it well and allow the cake to cool before flipping it out to avoid breaking.

Step 4: Coat with Cinnamon-Sugar for the Ultimate Churro Finish

This step is what gives your cake its signature churro flavor and texture.

How to Apply the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

1. Melt butter and lightly brush it all over the cake’s surface while it’s still slightly warm.
2. In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Generously sprinkle or roll the cake in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to create that classic churro coating.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a thicker cinnamon-sugar crust, you can double-coat the cake by brushing more melted butter and adding a second layer of the mixture.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve

Now comes the fun part—customizing your churro cake with extra indulgent toppings.

Topping Ideas:

• Dulce de Leche Drizzle – Adds a rich caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon-sugar coating.
• Chocolate Ganache – Melted dark or milk chocolate creates a churro-and-chocolate-inspired treat.
• Whipped Cream or Ice Cream – Serve a slice with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a cool contrast.
• Cinnamon Buttercream Frosting – Spread a layer of fluffy frosting on top for a bakery-style presentation.
• homemade chocolate sauce from DessArts is a perfect complement to churro-inspired desserts.

Pro Tip: Let the cake sit for at least 10-15 minutes after adding the toppings so the flavors can absorb properly.

Expert Tips for a Soft and Flavorful Churro Cake

Creating the perfect churro cake requires more than just following a recipe—it’s about mastering techniques that enhance its texture, moisture, and flavor. Below are expert tips to ensure your cake turns out irresistibly soft, rich, and full of cinnamon-sugar goodness.

1. Use the Right Flour for a Light and Fluffy Texture

The type of flour you use can significantly impact the texture of your churro cake.

• All-purpose flour works well for a classic, balanced texture.
• Cake flour results in a lighter, more delicate crumb. If you want a super soft texture, substitute one cup of all-purpose flour with one cup of cake flour.
• Sift the dry ingredients to aerate the flour and avoid dense spots in your batter.

Pro Tip: Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can develop too much gluten and make the cake tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

2. Incorporate Moisture-Enhancing Ingredients

To ensure your churro cake stays moist rather than dry, consider these key ingredients:

• Buttermilk or Sour Cream – Both add a tangy richness and prevent dryness.
• Oil + Butter Combination – Butter gives flavor, while oil adds extra moisture. A mix of both creates the best texture.
• Brown Sugar – Replacing part of the white sugar with brown sugar adds a deeper caramel-like flavor and keeps the cake soft.

Pro Tip: If using buttermilk, let it sit at room temperature before adding it to the batter to prevent curdling.

3. Enhance the Cinnamon-Sugar Flavor

Since the cinnamon-sugar coating is what makes this cake stand out, maximizing its flavor is essential.

• Use fresh cinnamon – Ground cinnamon loses its potency over time. For the most intense flavor, use a high-quality, fresh cinnamon variety like Ceylon or Saigon cinnamon.
• Double-coat the cake – After brushing with melted butter, roll or sprinkle the cake with cinnamon sugar, let it absorb, then add a second coating for an extra crunchy layer.
• Mix different sweeteners – Adding a little powdered sugar to the cinnamon-sugar mix creates a finer coating that clings better to the cake.

Pro Tip: To infuse even more cinnamon flavor, add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the cake batter itself.

4. Bake at the Right Temperature for Even Cooking

Baking at the correct temperature ensures the cake rises properly and bakes evenly.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully reach temperature before placing the cake inside.
• Use the middle rack to avoid over-browning or undercooking.
• Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

Pro Tip: If the top is browning too quickly, cover the cake loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.

5. Let the Cake Cool Properly Before Coating

A common mistake is coating the cake while it’s still too hot, which can make the cinnamon-sugar mixture melt instead of sticking properly.

• Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
• Brush the warm cake with melted butter to help the coating adhere.
• Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture while the cake is slightly warm but not too hot, so it forms a crisp outer layer.

Pro Tip: If using a Bundt pan, let the cake cool completely before flipping it out to prevent breakage.

6. Store and Serve for Maximum Freshness

Churro cake tastes best fresh, but proper storage keeps it moist and flavorful for days.

• Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness.
• Freeze for longer storage by wrapping slices individually and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Pro Tip: Serve with warm dulce de leche or chocolate sauce to enhance the churro experience.

More Churro-Inspired Desserts to Try

If you love the sweet, cinnamon-sugar flavor of churros, there are plenty of other delicious desserts you can make that capture the same irresistible taste. From cookies to cheesecakes, these churro-inspired treats put a creative spin on the classic fried pastry while keeping all the flavors you crave.

1. Churro Cupcakes

Ingredients:

Cupcakes:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk

Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tbsp heavy cream

Topping:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Mini churros or crushed cinnamon cereal (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
4. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk, mixing just until combined.
5. Divide batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes. Cool completely.
6. For the frosting, beat butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and heavy cream until fluffy.
7. Pipe frosting onto cupcakes, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and top with mini churros.

2. Churro Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (8 oz each) crescent roll dough
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Roll out one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the pan.
3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth. Spread over the dough.
4. Unroll the second can of dough and place it over the cream cheese layer.
5. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown. Cool before cutting into bars.

3. Churro Donuts

Ingredients:

For the Donuts:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup melted butter

For the Coating:

• ¼ cup melted butter
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan.
2. Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl.
3. In another bowl, whisk sugar, buttermilk, egg, vanilla, and butter.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. Fill the donut pan and bake for 12-14 minutes.
6. Dip warm donuts in melted butter, then coat in cinnamon sugar.

4. Churro Ice Cream Sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Oil for frying
• ½ cup granulated sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 pint vanilla ice cream

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, heat water, butter, sugar, and salt until boiling. Add flour and stir until a dough forms.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
3. Pipe circles of dough onto parchment paper.
4. Freeze for 30 minutes to hold shape, then fry in hot oil until golden. Drain and coat in cinnamon sugar.
5. Let churros cool, then sandwich ice cream between two churro rounds. Freeze before serving.

5. Churro Bread Pudding

Ingredients:

• 5 cups cubed bread (brioche or challah)
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 eggs
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup melted butter
• ½ cup cinnamon sugar for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, whisk milk, cream, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.
3. Add cubed bread and let soak for 10 minutes. Pour into the dish.
4. Drizzle melted butter and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes until set. Serve warm with caramel or whipped cream.

6. Churro Waffles

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 ¾ cups milk
• ½ cup melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Coating:

• ¼ cup melted butter
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat a waffle iron.
2. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and sugar.
3. In another bowl, mix eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then cook in waffle iron.
5. Brush with melted butter and coat in cinnamon sugar. Serve warm.

7. Churro Truffles

Ingredients:

• 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup melted white or dark chocolate (for coating)
• ¼ cup cinnamon sugar (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix crushed wafers, cream cheese, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until combined.
2. Roll into small balls and freeze for 15 minutes.
3. Dip in melted chocolate, then roll in cinnamon sugar.
4. Chill until firm, then serve.

Churro cake is the perfect combination of warm cinnamon-sugar flavors and soft, fluffy texture, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you serve it with chocolate sauce, dulce de leche, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cake is sure to impress. If you love creative and indulgent desserts, you might also enjoy The Ultimate Donut Cake – Fluffy, Sweet, and Irresistible for another fun and unique treat!