Spanish Churro-Inspired Pancakes

There was this rainy Saturday morning last autumn when my youngest woke up craving something magical for breakfast. We'd just come back from a trip to Spain where churros were practically a food group, and I wondered: why not bring that cinnamon sugar magic to pancakes? The kitchen smelled incredible as butter hit the pan, and when that first batch came out, the crispy edges were everything we hoped for. Now it's become our go-to when we need breakfast to feel like a celebration.

Last winter, our neighbors had been going through a rough patch and I brought over a stack of these warm pancakes. The kids' faces lit up when they bit into that cinnamon sugar coating, and suddenly we were all sitting around the table, the house filled with that comforting spice aroma. Food has this way of turning ordinary mornings into something special, and these pancakes somehow always do the trick.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation for fluffy pancakes that still hold up to that generous cinnamon sugar coating
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to complement the cinnamon sugar topping without making these dessert sweet
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: This is what gives you those tall, airy pancakes that feel like eating clouds
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors
• 1 cup milk: Creates the perfect batter consistency and adds tenderness
• 1 large egg: Provides structure and helps the pancakes rise beautifully
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps achieve those crispy edges we're after
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with warm notes
• 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar: Mix 1/2 cup sugar with 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon for that signature churro finish

Instructions

Whisk your dry foundation:

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until everything is evenly distributed

Prepare the wet mixture:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth and combined

Gently bring them together:

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined

Heat your cooking surface:

Warm a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a light coating of butter or oil

Cook until bubbles appear:

Pour about 1/4 cup batter per pancake and cook 2 to 3 minutes until bubbles form and edges look set

Flip and finish:

Cook another 2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through

Add the magic coating:

Remove from the pan and immediately sprinkle both sides generously with cinnamon sugar while warm

Repeat and serve:

Continue with remaining batter and serve the pancakes warm, stacked high with extra cinnamon sugar on top

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These pancakes became a birthday tradition for my daughter, who now requests them every single year. We set up a little topping station with different sauces and take turns decorating our stacks. It's funny how something so simple can become such a meaningful family ritual.

Getting That Perfect Crispy Edge

The secret to those churro-like crispy edges is patience with your heat. I've found that medium-low heat gives the butter time to work its magic, creating a golden crust that stays satisfyingly crisp even under all that cinnamon sugar. Resist the urge to flip too early and let that bottom develop properly.

Making It Your Own

Sometimes I'll add a pinch of cayenne to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a subtle warmth that makes these pancakes feel extra special. Other times, a splash of orange juice in the batter adds a bright note that cuts through all that sugar beautifully. Trust what sounds good to you.

Perfect Pairings

These pancakes are incredible on their own, but a warm chocolate sauce takes them completely over the top. I love serving them with fresh berries on the side to cut through the richness, and a hot cup of coffee or cold milk makes everything perfect. For an authentic Spanish experience, dulce de leche is absolutely divine.

• Warm your serving plates in the oven for a few minutes
• Mix extra cinnamon sugar and keep it within arm's reach
• Have everything ready before you start cooking

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Hope these bring as much joy to your kitchen as they have to ours. Happy cooking!

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What makes these pancakes Spanish churro-inspired?

These pancakes capture the essence of traditional Spanish churros through their signature cinnamon sugar coating and crispy edges. The combination mimics the beloved fried pastry's flavor profile while maintaining the fluffy texture of American-style pancakes.

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

For best results, prepare the batter fresh just before cooking. The baking powder activates immediately when wet ingredients are incorporated, so using the batter right away ensures the fluffiest pancakes. If you must prep ahead, whisk dry ingredients together the night before and add wet ingredients in the morning.

→ What's the best way to achieve crispy edges?

Cooking over medium heat allows the edges to crisp up nicely without burning the center. Using a bit more butter in the pan and extending the cooking time by 30-60 seconds per side helps develop those coveted crispy edges that resemble churro texture.

→ Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?

Yes, these adapt well to dietary needs. Use gluten-free flour blends for wheat allergies, plant-based milk and vegan butter for dairy-free versions, and egg replacers for vegan options. The cinnamon sugar topping works with any liquid sweetener alternative like maple syrup.

→ What toppings pair best with these pancakes?

While cinnamon sugar is essential, warm chocolate sauce or dulce de leche creates an authentic churro experience. Fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey also complement the spiced sweetness without overpowering the traditional flavor profile.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster or warm skillet to restore some crispiness, then refresh with a light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Freezing works well for up to 1 month—separate with parchment paper and thaw before reheating.