Churro Cookies

These Churro Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic churro, perfect for any occasion. Soft and chewy, these cookies combine the warm flavors of cinnamon and sugar with a luscious buttercream frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these cookies will surely impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Churro Cookies

These cookies offer more than just great taste.

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon sugar and creamy frosting makes every bite crave-worthy.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these cookies fit right in.
• Versatile Frosting Options: Customize your cookies with different frosting techniques for unique presentations.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy the perfect balance of softness and chewiness that will keep you coming back for more.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essentials before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the cookie dough easier and ensures consistent texture.
• Baking sheets: Provide an even surface for baking, helping cookies to cook uniformly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easy to lift cookies off the sheet without damage.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Churro Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Sugar Coating:

• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Cookies:

• 1/2 cup (113g) butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (103g) shortening, room temperature
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Churro Buttercream:

• 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3 cups (375g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
• 1/3 cup (67g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2-3 teaspoons whole milk (as needed for consistency)

How to Make Churro Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Coating

In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the sugar coating. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough

Using a handheld mixer or stand mixer, combine the softened butter, shortening, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Beat until light and creamy.
– Add the flour, cornstarch, kosher salt, baking powder, and cinnamon to the butter mixture. Mix until all ingredients are incorporated and the dough forms.

Step 4: Shape and Coat the Cookies

Using a 1/4 cup of dough per cookie or two scoops using a 2-tablespoon scoop, portion the dough onto prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
– Use your hands to slightly flatten each ball of dough.
– Roll each cookie in the cinnamon sugar coating before returning them to the baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 12 minutes if you want a softer texture or up to 14 minutes for firmer cookies.
– Remove from oven and let cool completely on baking sheets before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Churro Buttercream

In a stand mixer bowl with paddle attachment, beat together unsalted butter, confectioners’ sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon on low speed until combined.
– Increase speed to high and beat for about 2 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
– Add milk gradually to achieve desired consistency.

Step 7: Frost the Cookies

Once cooled completely, use buttercream to frost each cookie.
– For best results, pipe or spread evenly on each cookie.

Step 8: Serve and Store

Serve frosted cookies cold.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature before serving if desired.
– Unused buttercream can be stored in an airtight container in refrigerator; warm it back up before using again.

How to Serve Churro Cookies

Churro cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their sweet and cinnamon-infused flavor pairs well with many accompaniments, making them perfect for any occasion.

With Hot Chocolate

• A warm cup of hot chocolate complements the sweet and spicy notes of churro cookies, creating a cozy dessert experience.

Alongside Coffee

• Pairing churro cookies with your favorite coffee enhances their flavors, making for a delightful afternoon snack or breakfast treat.

As Dessert Tacos

• Use mini tortillas to create dessert tacos filled with churro cookie pieces, whipped cream, and drizzles of chocolate sauce for a fun twist on serving.

Topped with Ice Cream

• Serve churro cookies warm and top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that melts in your mouth.

With Fresh Fruit

• Adding fresh fruit such as strawberries or bananas on the side provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange churro cookies on a platter alongside other treats like brownies or cupcakes for a festive dessert display at gatherings.

How to Perfect Churro Cookies

Perfecting churro cookies is all about mastering the details. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies come out just right:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring butter, eggs, and shortening are at room temperature helps create a smooth dough that bakes evenly.
• Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients to avoid tough cookies; stop as soon as no dry flour remains visible.
• Chill the dough: For better flavor and texture, chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Check baking time carefully: Aim for 12-14 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on them to achieve your desired level of softness or firmness.
• Frost when cool: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and maintains its shape.
• Experiment with spices: Add nutmeg or vanilla extract to the sugar coating for an extra layer of flavor in your churro cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Churro Cookies

Churro cookies can be paired with various side dishes that enhance their sweetness and flavor profile. Here are some delicious options:

1. Cinnamon Sugar Pita Chips: Crunchy chips dusted with cinnamon sugar provide a great textured contrast to soft churro cookies.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate creates an interactive dessert experience where you can dip churro cookie pieces for extra decadence.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over churro cookies adds richness and complements their cinnamon flavor beautifully.
4. Fruit Salsa: A mix of diced fruits like mango, kiwi, and strawberries offers freshness that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Cheesecake Dip: A creamy cheesecake dip serves as an excellent accompaniment for dipping chunks of churro cookie into something rich and velvety.
6. Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream makes an airy addition when served alongside churro cookies, enhancing their overall sweetness without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Churro Cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Butter Temperature – Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Always ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for a light texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately – Incorrect measurements can ruin the balance of flavors. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Overmixing the Dough – Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a softer cookie.
• Ignoring Cooling Time – Frosting warm cookies can cause the buttercream to melt. Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting them.
• Using Old Spices – Fresh spices enhance flavor. Check the freshness of your cinnamon and other spices before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store frosted cookies in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze un-frosted cookies in an airtight container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months; thaw before frosting.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-8 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat each cookie on low power for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Churro Cookies?

Churro Cookies are soft and chewy cinnamon sugar cookies inspired by traditional churros, often topped with a creamy cinnamon buttercream.

Can I customize Churro Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even swap out spices based on your taste preferences.

How do I store leftover Churro Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

What is the best way to frost Churro Cookies?

Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting with buttercream. For a decorative touch, use a piping bag when applying frosting.

Final Thoughts

These Churro Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their soft texture combined with rich cinnamon flavor makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful treats!