Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cookies: The Ultimate Guide

If you’re a fan of cinnamon sugar desserts, then soft and chewy churro cookies might just become your new obsession. Inspired by the nostalgic flavor of classic churros and modern cookie trends like Crumbl’s famous churro cookie, these pillowy soft, buttery treats are coated in cinnamon sugar and topped with a rich cinnamon buttercream. This guide will walk you through every detail you need to make perfect churro cookies right at home.

Unlike many traditional cookie recipes, churro cookies combine the texture of a chewy sugar cookie with the warm flavor of cinnamon—making them a must-bake for any dessert lover. Their golden exterior hides a soft center, and whether you frost them or leave them plain, these cookies steal the show every time.

To get your baking just right, it’s essential to start with proper measurements. Measuring flour incorrectly is one of the biggest mistakes in home baking. Check out this guide on how to measure flour correctly to avoid dry, dense cookies. Also, understanding where churros come from adds a fun cultural twist to your baking. You might enjoy this National Geographic article on the history of churros to learn more about how this Spanish dessert inspired such a delightful cookie version.

What Are Churro Cookies?

Churro cookies are soft, sugar-based cookies flavored generously with cinnamon and rolled in cinnamon sugar—just like the fried dough treat they’re named after. While they aren’t fried like real churros, the taste profile is shockingly similar. Many bakers even add a swirl of cinnamon buttercream to mimic the richness and visual appeal of Crumbl’s signature version.

These cookies are:

• Soft and chewy in the center
• Rolled in a crisp cinnamon sugar coating
• Topped (optionally) with a cinnamon-infused buttercream
• Great for holiday baking, birthdays, and cookie exchanges

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

These cookies offer the best of multiple dessert worlds. Here’s what makes them a keeper:

• Rich cinnamon flavor throughout the dough and frosting
• Crisp edges with a soft, chewy interior
• Easy to bake with no chill time needed
• Freezer-friendly dough and finished cookies
• Delicious with or without frosting

Ingredients Breakdown

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

This is the signature churro finish that gives the cookie its sparkle and flavor punch.

Cookie Dough

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ½ cup shortening (important for that chewy texture)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (makes cookies soft and tender)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Using shortening along with butter ensures a tender texture that holds up during baking. If you’re curious about the science behind using shortening, here’s an excellent resource comparing butter vs. shortening for cookies.

Cinnamon Buttercream Frosting

• ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar (sifted)
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar
• 1½ teaspoons cinnamon
• 2–3 teaspoons whole milk

This frosting is thick and pipeable—perfect for swirling or spreading.

How to Make Soft & Chewy Churro Cookies

Follow these steps for perfect churro cookies every time:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon sugar for coating. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the butter, shortening, and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon.
6. Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until combined.
7. Scoop dough into large balls (about ¼ cup per cookie), flatten slightly, and roll in cinnamon sugar.
8. Place on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake for 12 minutes for soft cookies, or 14 minutes for firmer ones.
10. Cool completely before frosting.

Making the Perfect Cinnamon Buttercream

Once the cookies are fully cooled, it’s time to prepare the buttercream:

• Beat softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon together.
• Add milk as needed to reach desired consistency.
• Use a piping bag and a large round tip (like 2A) to swirl the frosting on top.

Tip: For a lighter texture, whip the frosting for a few extra minutes to create a fluffier, airier finish.

Storage and Freezing Tips

These cookies are freezer-friendly and can be enjoyed over several days if stored properly:

• Store frosted cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze unfrosted cookies or raw dough balls for up to 6 weeks.
• Thaw before frosting or baking as usual.
• Always let cookies come to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Churro Cookie Variations and Add-ins

Want to switch it up? Try these ideas:

• Add mini chocolate chips for a chocolate-churro flavor combo
• Skip the frosting and serve plain with a drizzle of caramel
• Make churro cookie bars by spreading dough into a pan and baking for 20–25 minutes
• Use an egg substitute to make them egg-free (like flax eggs or commercial replacers)

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cookies didn’t turn out quite right, here’s what to look for:

• Too dry? Likely too much flour—double-check your measuring technique
• Spread too much? Butter might’ve been too soft or oven too hot
• Too soft to frost? Let them cool longer or bake 1–2 minutes more next time
• Buttercream too stiff? Add more milk, a teaspoon at a time

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use all butter instead of shortening?
Yes, but your cookies may spread more and be less chewy.

Can churro cookies be made ahead of time?
Definitely! Make the dough and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.

What’s the difference between snickerdoodles and churro cookies?
Snickerdoodles often use cream of tartar and have a tangy flavor. Churro cookies are more buttery and topped with frosting.

Do I have to frost them?
Nope! They taste amazing without frosting too.

Can I use cinnamon chips?
Yes! Fold in ½ cup of cinnamon chips for an extra burst of spice.

Are these cookies good for cookie swaps or parties?
Absolutely—they’re unique, crowd-pleasing, and stay soft for days.

Pairing & Serving Suggestions

These cookies go perfectly with:

• A mug of hot chocolate or coffee
• Dulce de leche or chocolate drizzle
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Holiday platters with sugar cookies and snickerdoodles

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to impress your friends, treat your family, or just satisfy your own sweet cravings, soft and chewy cinnamon sugar churro cookies are the way to go. Their warm, nostalgic flavors and irresistibly soft texture make them a repeat-worthy recipe.

Whether you’re baking for a party or just want something indulgent for yourself, these cookies deliver on every level. Try them once, and you’ll never look at cinnamon sugar the same way again.

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