Name: Chewy Churro Cookies: Soft Cinnamon-Sugar Bliss Awaits
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Always use fresh for best results.); ½ teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness.); 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (Use fresh for best taste.); ½ cup unsalted butter (Can be softened or browned.); ½ cup brown sugar (Adds moisture and sweet flavor.); ¼ cup granulated sugar (Contributes crisp texture.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances flavor profile.); 1 large egg (Use at room temperature.); ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (For rolling.)

As I sifted through the spices in my cabinet, the unmistakable scent of cinnamon whisked me away to fairgrounds alive with laughter and sweet aromas. While I could enjoy a classic churro anytime, my Chewy Churro Cookies offer a joyfully simple twist that brings that familiar magic straight to my kitchen without the fuss of frying. In just 30 minutes, you can treat yourself to a dessert that boasts a delightful chewiness and a crispy cinnamon-sugar finish. These cookies not only satisfy cravings for a comforting snack, but they are also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. So, why not whip up a batch and add a fun variation, like a rich Nutella swirl or a gooey caramel surprise? Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later! Are you ready to dive into this easy baking adventure?

Why are Chewy Churro Cookies a must-try?

Decadent Flavor: These cookies capture the essence of classic churros with a delightful cinnamon sugar coating that will leave you wanting more.

No Frying Needed: Enjoy the deliciousness of churros minus the cleanup and cooking oil mess—perfect for home bakers!

Quick & Easy: With just 30 minutes from prep to oven, you’ll have warm cookies ready to delight friends and family in no time!

Versatile Variations: Add your favorite fillings like cream cheese, Nutella, or caramel for a unique twist that suits every palate.

Crowd Favorite: These chewy delights are guaranteed to impress at any gathering, whether it’s a casual coffee get-together or a festive holiday party.

So, why wait? Dive into this baking adventure and discover your new favorite cookie! If you’re in the mood for more cozy treats, check out these Apple Snickerdoodles Cozy for another sweet addition!

Chewy Churro Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

All-purpose flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Baking soda – Helps cookies rise; always use fresh for the best results.
Salt – Balances sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
Ground cinnamon – Adds the signature churro flavor; use fresh for the best taste experience.
Unsalted butter – Creates a rich buttery flavor; can be softened or browned for deeper taste.
Brown sugar – Adds moisture and a lovely caramel-like sweetness to the cookies.
Granulated sugar – Contributes crisp texture and overall sweetness.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor profile, making these cookies irresistible.
Egg – Binds ingredients together; use at room temperature for better incorporation.

For the Coating

Cinnamon sugar mixture – For rolling; a delightful mix of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon that gives these Chewy Churro Cookies their signature crunch!

Feel free to explore fun variations by incorporating a cream cheese filling, Nutella, or caramel for a delicious surprise!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Churro Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring enough room for the cookies to spread while baking. This setup will help achieve that crisp exterior and chewy inside that make Chewy Churro Cookies so delightful.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly combined, which helps the cookies rise beautifully and maintains a consistent flavor throughout. Set the bowl aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which is key to achieving that soft, chewy texture your Chewy Churro Cookies will have.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Now, add 1 room temperature egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugars. Mix on low speed until the ingredients are well combined, ensuring that the egg is fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and creamy, providing a perfect base for your cookie dough.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the whisked dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. You want a soft, slightly sticky dough, reminiscent of the texture in traditional churro dough, ready to form into delightful Chewy Churro Cookies.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Once formed, roll each ball in a cinnamon sugar mixture made of ¼ cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. This coating gives your cookies that signature churro flavor while adding a delightful crunch to the exterior.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the rolled cookie balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers still look slightly soft. This allows your Chewy Churro Cookies to maintain that irresistible chewy texture, so keep an eye on them as they bake.

Step 8: Cool Before Enjoying
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The warm cookies are heavenly, but letting them cool enhances their chewy goodness, making every bite a true delight.

What to Serve with Chewy Churro Cookies

Indulging in these delightful cookies opens the door to a world of perfect pairings that will elevate your dessert experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a light, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
Dulce de Leche Sauce: Drizzle this rich caramel sauce over your cookies for an extra indulgent experience that echoes churro traditions.
Warm Chocolate Sauce: Serve with warm chocolate sauce for dipping, adding a decadent layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Café Americano: The robust flavor of this coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies, making for a perfect afternoon snack.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Top cookies with a scoop of ice cream; the cold creaminess balances the warm, chewy goodness of the churros.
Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: Pairing these cookies with a homemade spiced hot chocolate creates a cozy moment, perfect for chilly evenings.
Caramel Apple Slices: Sweet apple slices drizzled with caramel provide a crunchy contrast, making for a delightful snack alongside your cookies.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai enhance the flavors of the cookies, inviting you to savor each bite with every sip.
Milk: A classic companion, chilled milk brings a nostalgic touch that pairs flawlessly with the delightful cinnamon-sugar exterior.

Expert Tips for Chewy Churro Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for optimal incorporation, making your Chewy Churro Cookies light and fluffy.
Don’t Overmix: Combine dry and wet ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, which you definitely want to avoid!
Perfect Baking Time: Keep a close eye while baking; cookies should look slightly underdone when you pull them out. They will continue to firm up while cooling.
Firm Yet Sticky Dough: The dough should be somewhat firm, but sticky like snickerdoodle dough. Adjust flour or butter slightly if needed to achieve this texture.
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to explore fillings like Nutella or cream cheese, but don’t overstuff the dough; this ensures they bake evenly and hold their shape!

How to Store and Freeze Chewy Churro Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain softness.

Fridge: If you prefer, keep the cookies in the fridge for an extra day or two. Just ensure they’re covered well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Chewy Churro Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Cookie Dough Storage: If you want to make the dough ahead of time, it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months. Just let it soften slightly before baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Churro Cookies are fantastic for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Alternatively, the dough can be frozen for up to 2 months—just scoop dough balls, freeze on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; simply roll the frozen dough in cinnamon sugar mixture and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. By prepping ahead, you’ll have delicious cookies ready in no time, perfect for any occasion!

Chewy Churro Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these variations and make these cookies uniquely yours!

Cream Cheese Filling: Enclose a dollop of sweetened cream cheese in each dough ball for a delightful surprise center. This extra layer brings a creamy richness that perfectly contrasts the chewy cookie.
Nutella Swirl: Add a swirl or a spoonful of Nutella right into the cookie dough before baking. The chocolatey warmth will melt your heart as it mingles with the cinnamon sugar.
Caramel Surprise: Tuck a piece of caramel candy into each cookie dough ball for a gooey, indulgent twist. As the cookies bake, the caramel melts—creating a sweet burst of flavor.
Orange Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange zest into your dough for a refreshing citrus aroma. This bright twist can elevate the taste of your Chewy Churro Cookies!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick that complements the sweetness of the sugar. It’s a fun way to play with flavors and keep things exciting.
Snickerdoodle Style: For a snickerdoodle twist, add ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar to the dough, enhancing its chewiness and adding that familiar flavor.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. This way, everyone can enjoy these tantalizing treats without worry!
Maple Syrup: Swap out brown sugar for maple syrup to infuse your cookies with a deep, warm flavor. Just reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly for correct dough consistency.

If you’re excited about the sweet possibilities, try these variations and indulge in flavors that take your Chewy Churro Cookies to the next level! For another scrumptious option, don’t forget to explore Apple Snickerdoodles Cozy.

Chewy Churro Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I pick the right ripeness for the ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, use room temperature ingredients: chilled butter takes longer to incorporate and affects texture. Ensure your egg is also at room temperature for a smooth dough. As for cinnamon, fresh ground is always preferable—check for a warm, aromatic scent!

What is the best way to store Chewy Churro Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain that delightful softness, place a slice of bread in the container with them—this little tip has saved many a cookie from going stale! For extra freshness, you can pop them in the fridge for a couple more days, but don’t forget to cover them well.

Can I freeze Chewy Churro Cookies?
Yes, you can! Chewy Churro Cookies freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to indulge, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a delightful treat anytime!

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very good question! If your Chewy Churro Cookies spread excessively, it could be due to overly soft dough or insufficient flour. Make sure to use properly measured flour and chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape. This gives you that great chewy center without runaway cookies!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you’re considering allergies, remember that these cookies contain eggs and dairy. Always check with your guests for any specific dietary restrictions before serving. And, while it’s tempting to share delicious snacks with your furry friends, these cookies aren’t suitable for pets due to sugar and chocolate content. Always prioritize safety!