Name: Churro Crinkle Cookies: Soft, Chewy Bliss in Every Bite
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option.); 0.5 cups Cocoa Powder (Use unsweetened for best results.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 pinch Salt; 0.5 cups Granulated Sugar; 0.5 cups Brown Sugar; 2 large Eggs (Can substitute with flax eggs for vegan version.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (Fresh cinnamon enhances flavor.); 0.25 cups Extra Granulated Sugar (For coating.); 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (For coating.)

Stepping into my kitchen was always an adventure, but today, it felt like a culinary journey to a cozy Spanish café. The enticing aroma of cinnamon and sugar filled the air as I prepared to make Churro Crinkle Cookies, where each bite promises the soft chewiness of a fresh cookie with the irresistible essence of churros. These delightful treats are not only simple to whip up but also adaptable for gluten-free and vegan diets, making them perfect for every dessert lover. Whether you’re gathering friends for a festive night or craving a sweet escape during your quiet afternoon, these cookies will satisfy your sweet tooth in no time. Who’s excited to transform their next batch of cookies into something extraordinary?

Why Are Churro Crinkle Cookies So Irresistible?

Chewy Delight: These churro crinkle cookies boast a perfect chewy texture, ensuring each bite is melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Delectable Flavor: Infused with warm cinnamon and sugar, they bring the classic churro experience right to your home.

Versatile Options: Whether you’re gluten-free or vegan, enjoy adaptations that make these cookies suitable for everyone.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up without fuss, making them ideal for last-minute cravings.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, they’re sure to impress family and friends, just like other favorites such as Cinnamon Roll Cookies or Churro Cheesecake Indulge.

You’ll love the delightful aroma and taste that fills your kitchen, baking these treats that everyone will rave about!

Churro Crinkle Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make these churro crinkle cookies gluten-free.
• Cocoa Powder – Adds a rich flavor depth and dark color; use unsweetened cocoa for the best results.
• Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps cookies rise beautifully.
• Salt – Enhances flavor by balancing sweetness and elevating taste.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their delightful texture.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, making each bite indulgent.
• Eggs – Binds all ingredients together and adds richness; can be replaced with flax eggs to create a vegan version.
• Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic flavor that complements the cookie perfectly.
• Ground Cinnamon – Essential for that traditional churro flavor; fresh cinnamon enhances the cookies’ taste.

For the Coating
• Extra Granulated Sugar – Creates a sweet and crunchy outer layer when mixed with cinnamon; roll your cookies generously for a delightful experience.
• Ground Cinnamon – Mix with sugar for coating; the warm spice really brings out the churro essence!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Churro Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Prep Oven & Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which will prevent the churro crinkle cookies from sticking and ensure even baking. This step is essential for achieving that perfect texture, so take your time to get it right.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This combination will create the foundation of your churro crinkle cookies, providing structure and flavor. Set this mixture aside so the flavors can mingle while you move on to the next step.

Step 3: Cream Sugars and Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of brown sugar, and 2 eggs on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture appears light and fluffy. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until thoroughly combined. This step is crucial for incorporating air, which will yield soft and chewy cookies.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Carefully add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined, being cautious not to overmix. You want a thick, beautiful dough that captures the essence of churro crinkle cookies without losing its airy texture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. Chilling is an important step that helps the dough firm up, which makes for beautifully shaped cookies that won’t spread too much while baking. Use this time to prepare the cinnamon sugar coating in the next step.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. This delicious blend will give your churro crinkle cookies that signature spice and sweetness. Set this aside; you’ll roll the chilled cookie dough in it to create a lovely outer layer.

Step 7: Shape Cookies
Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and use a cookie scoop to portion it into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture before placing them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. This will allow the cookies to spread beautifully while baking.

Step 8: Bake Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the churro crinkle cookies for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies; they should have set edges and cracked tops. This is the perfect moment when they are still soft in the center yet ready to be enjoyed!

Step 9: Cool
Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes. This allows them to finish setting up on the sheet. Afterward, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing them to maintain their delightful texture.

Storage Tips for Churro Crinkle Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your churro crinkle cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This keeps them soft and chewy while maintaining that delicious cinnamon sugar coating.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer storage option, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture.
Freezer: You can freeze churro crinkle cookies for up to three months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw at room temperature when ready to indulge!
Reheating: To rejuvenate slightly stale cookies, pop them in the microwave for 5-10 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. This revives their soft, chewy bliss.

What to Serve with Churro Crinkle Cookies?

Pair your delightful cookies with these scrumptious options for a complete dessert experience that satisfies every sweet craving.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture of the cookies, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm, gooey chocolate sauce over your cookies for an indulgent twist that enhances the overall flavor journey.
Caramel Sauce: Sweet, buttery caramel adds a luscious decadence, balancing the warm spice of the churro essence with its sweet richness.
Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries or raspberries to bring out a refreshing, fruity contrast, showcasing a delightful mix of textures.
Milk or Almond Milk: A glass of cold milk is the classic pairing, washing down the sweetness while enhancing every bite’s deliciousness.
Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of coffee balance the sweetness of the cookies, making for a cozy, uplifting pairing perfect for any occasion.
Cream Cheese Frosting: A dollop of sweetened cream cheese frosting on the side provides a tangy complement to the cinnamon-sugar bliss of the cookies.

For an elegant touch, consider assembling a dessert platter that features your churro crinkle cookies alongside these delicious accompaniments, delighting your guests visually and tastefully!

Make Ahead Options

These Churro Crinkle Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by following the chilling step. After mixing the dough, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This prevents the dough from drying out, ensuring it stays just as delicious when baked. On the day you wish to bake, remove the dough from the fridge and roll it into balls, coating them in the cinnamon sugar mixture before placing them on the baking sheet. Bake as directed, and enjoy fresh cookies that taste as if they were just made, saving you precious time on busy days!

Churro Crinkle Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore your creativity and customize these delightful churro crinkle cookies with these fun variations and substitutions!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these cookies without gluten.
Vegan: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water for each egg) for a vegan option. They’ll still turn out soft and chewy!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free dessert that’s just as indulgent. The aroma will satisfy all your senses!
Spice it Up: Amp up the flavor by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a gentle kick. It’s a delicious surprise that’ll elevate each bite.
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for an extra texture twist. It’s a delightful variation that’ll make every cookie unique!
Seasonal Twist: For a festive touch, try adding pumpkin spice or ginger during the holiday season. These spices will wrap your cookies in warmth and spice!
Fruity Flare: Toss in dried cranberries or orange zest into the dough for a burst of fruitiness. It creates a refreshing addition that brightens your dessert.
Sweet and Salty: Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies for an indulgent finish or sprinkle flaky sea salt over the cinnamon sugar coating for an irresistible sweet-salty contrast.

With these adaptations, your churro crinkle cookies can be truly one-of-a-kind! Don’t forget, you can enjoy a plateful alongside a creamy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies or treat yourself with a piece of Churro Saltine Toffee for a delightful dessert spread. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Churro Crinkle Cookies

Chill for Shape: Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This prevents spreading and helps maintain that perfect crinkle texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, chewy churro crinkle cookies.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. They should be set at the edges but still soft in the center for the best texture. Aim for that perfect golden-brown color!
Cinnamon Sugar Generosity: Roll the cookie dough balls generously in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This ensures a delightful crunch on the outside that complements the chewy interior.
Substitution Success: If you’re making gluten-free or vegan adaptations, choose high-quality substitutes to maintain taste and texture. Use a gluten-free flour blend and flax eggs for excellent results.

Churro Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for the best texture?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using all-purpose flour, as it provides the ideal structure for these cookies. If you’re making them gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture.

How should I store my churro crinkle cookies?
You should store your churro crinkle cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This keeps them soft and chewy. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to two weeks, but let them warm to room temperature before enjoying them for optimal softness.

Can I freeze churro crinkle cookies? How?
Very! You can freeze churro crinkle cookies for up to three months. To do so, let the cookies cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, layering parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature!

What should I do if my cookie dough spreads too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies spread too much, don’t worry! You can simply chill the dough for an additional 15-30 minutes before baking. This extra chilling helps firm up the butter, yielding beautifully shaped, crinkle cookies that hold their form nicely in the oven.

Are there any allergy considerations for churro crinkle cookies?
Definitely! This recipe contains eggs and may contain gluten, so it’s important to accommodate allergies. For a vegan option, substitute eggs with flax eggs (one tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons of water equals one egg). Always check labels of pre-packaged ingredients to avoid cross-contamination for gluten-free flour.

Can I make churro crinkle cookies in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough up to three days in advance. Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes for a convenient last-minute dessert that can satisfy your sweet cravings anytime!