Save The smell of cinnamon sugar hitting hot butter still takes me back to that tiny apartment kitchen where I first tried making these. I had a craving for something churro-like but no frying setup, and honestly, these turned out better than I expected. They became my go-to comfort breakfast during rainy weekends.
My sister stayed over last winter and practically hovered around the stove while I made these. She kept asking if they were done yet, which I took as a good sign. Now she texts me every time she makes them, usually with some variation about how she might have eaten the entire batch herself.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: The foundation that gives these pancakes their structure and fluffy interior
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while letting the cinnamon sugar topping really shine
- Baking powder: Essential for that lift and fluffiness you want in every bite
- Salt: Balances everything out and enhances the cinnamon flavor
- Milk: Creates the right consistency and tenderness in the crumb
- Egg: Binds everything together and adds richness
- Unsalted butter melted: Adds flavor and helps create those crispy edges we love
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor profile beautifully
- Cinnamon sugar mixture: The magic coating that makes these taste like authentic churros
Instructions
- Whisk the dry ingredients together:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well blended
- Mix the wet ingredients separately:
- In another bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth
- Combine the mixtures gently:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined, some lumps are perfectly fine
- Heat your cooking surface:
- Warm a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little butter or oil
- Cook the pancakes:
- Pour about one quarter cup of batter per pancake, cooking two to three minutes per side until golden
- Coat immediately:
- Sprinkle each hot pancake generously with cinnamon sugar on both sides
- Keep warm and repeat:
- Continue with remaining batter, keeping cooked pancakes warm in a low oven
Save These became a thing in my friend group after I made them for a birthday breakfast instead of the usual cake. Something about warm cinnamon and butter just makes people feel celebrated and happy.
Making Them Extra Special
Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the top or serve with a side of dulce de leche for dipping. The combination of chocolate and cinnamon sugar is absolutely divine and feels completely indulgent.
Getting The Texture Right
The key is pressing the cinnamon sugar into the hot pancakes with the back of a spoon. It creates this incredible crust that stays crispy while the inside stays soft and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
Stack them high on a warm plate and serve immediately while the sugar coating is still slightly crunchy. The contrast between textures is what makes these so addictive.
- Keep extra cinnamon sugar nearby for sprinkling
- Warm your maple syrup slightly before serving
- These are best eaten the moment they are made
Save There is something magical about transforming simple pancake ingredients into something that feels like a special treat from a Spanish bakery.
Recipe Help
- → What makes these pancakes churro-inspired?
The cinnamon sugar coating applied immediately after cooking creates the classic churro flavor profile, while the crispy edges mimic the texture of traditional Spanish churros.
- → Can I make the batter ahead of time?
For best results, make the batter fresh. The baking powder activates when mixed with wet ingredients, so resting too long can affect fluffiness.
- → What's the best way to get crispy edges?
Use a bit more butter in the pan and cook slightly longer on the first side until edges appear set and golden before flipping.
- → Can I freeze these pancakes?
Yes, cool completely and freeze in a single layer. Reheat in a toaster or oven, then reapply cinnamon sugar while warm.
- → What toppings work best?
Warm chocolate sauce or dulce de leche provide authentic Spanish flair. Fresh berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup also complement beautifully.
- → How do I make these dairy-free?
Substitute plant-based milk for regular milk and use vegan butter instead of unsalted butter. The texture remains fluffy and delicious.