As the morning sun filters through the kitchen window, I find myself craving something a little different from the usual breakfast routine. Imagine fluffy pancakes that dance with the enchanting flavors of traditional Spanish churros, leaving your taste buds tingling with delight. That’s exactly how I discovered the magic of Spanish Churro Pancakes!
There’s something irresistible about the combination of cinnamon and sugar, especially when paired with a rich, warm chocolate sauce. These pancakes not only serve as a sumptuous breakfast treat but also transform a simple brunch into a celebratory affair. Whether you’re indulging in a lazy weekend morning or need to impress guests, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary repertoire without the fuss. Trust me, once you try a bite, you’ll be counting the days until you can make them again!
Why are Spanish Churro Pancakes irresistible?
Fluffy texture, these pancakes are light and airy, creating the perfect canvas for your favorite toppings. Decadent flavor, a delightful blend of cinnamon sugar captures the essence of churros, while the warm chocolate sauce brings a touch of indulgence. Quick and easy, this recipe comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for any busy morning. Perfect for sharing, whether it’s a family breakfast or brunch with friends, everyone will adore this treat. Don’t miss out on serving suggestions that will enhance your experience, transforming each bite into pure bliss!
Spanish Churro Pancakes Ingredients
Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to create these delightful pancakes:
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For the Pancakes:
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All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
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Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to complement the flavors; consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
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Baking powder – Leavening agent that helps pancakes rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
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Baking soda – Works with baking powder for a light texture.
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Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; reduce if using salted butter.
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Ground cinnamon – Key flavoring agent that adds warmth and spice; can increase for a stronger cinnamon flavor.
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Buttermilk – Adds moisture and richness; can substitute with milk mixed with vinegar or yogurt.
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Large egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; could use a flax egg for vegan options.
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Unsalted butter (melted) – Enriches flavor and texture; replace with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
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Vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor; use pure extract for best results.
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For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
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Granulated sugar – Sweet coating for the warm pancakes.
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Ground cinnamon – Key to the churro flavor profile; adjust to taste.
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For the Chocolate Sauce:
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Semi-sweet chocolate chips – The base for the sauce; dark chocolate chips can be used for a richer flavor.
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Heavy cream – Adds creaminess to the sauce; half-and-half can be a lighter alternative.
How to Make Spanish Churro Pancakes
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Combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, mixing well before setting aside. This will create the sweet coating that gives your pancakes that churro-like finish.
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Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Once simmering, remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth. This rich chocolate sauce will elevate your pancakes to indulgent perfection.
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Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon in a large bowl. Mix until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps, which will help achieve fluffy pancakes.
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Mix the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract in another bowl until thoroughly combined. This creamy mixture adds moisture and flavor to your batter.
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Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. A few lumps are perfectly fine; this will keep your pancakes light and airy!
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Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat, lightly greasing the surface for easy flipping. A well-preheated skillet is key to golden brown pancakes.
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Spoon about 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the skillet, cooking until bubbles form on the surface and the edges appear set, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Flip the pancake and cook until golden brown on the other side.
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Toss the warm pancakes in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they’re still hot, ensuring each side is well coated for that sweet churro flavor.
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Stack the pancakes on a plate and drizzle generously with the warm chocolate sauce, creating an enticing, decadent appearance.
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Serve immediately to fully enjoy the warm, fluffy goodness of your Spanish Churro Pancakes, and share them with loved ones for a delightful breakfast or brunch experience.
Optional: Top with whipped cream or extra chocolate chips for an even sweeter treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Spanish Churro Pancakes Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity and customize these pancakes to delight your senses with every bite!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to cater to your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
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Dairy-Free: Replace buttermilk with almond or coconut milk mixed with a splash of vinegar for a dairy-free variation that still remains rich and creamy.
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Mini Pancakes: Pour smaller amounts of batter onto the skillet to create mini pancakes, perfect for a fun brunch platter or for children’s hands!
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Chocolate Chip Boost: Mix semi-sweet chocolate chips directly into the batter for an extra chocolatey surprise in every fluffy bite that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Cinnamon Roll Twist: Add a swirl of cinnamon-sugar mixture in the center of your pancake batter before flipping for a delightful cinnamon roll vibe.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for an added crunch and flavor depth that complements the sweetness.
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Spiced Up: For those who like a kick, toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper into the batter or the cinnamon sugar mix to add a hint of heat.
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Fruit Feast: Top with fresh berries or banana slices after cooking, adding natural sweetness and a pop of color to make your breakfast extra special.
Choose any variation to make these pancakes uniquely yours! Each twist brings something deliciously different to the table, inviting you to explore all the possibilities.
Make Ahead Options
These Spanish Churro Pancakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the pancake batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before cooking, as some ingredients may separate. The cinnamon sugar mixture can also be made ahead and kept in a small jar at room temperature. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful pancakes, simply heat a non-stick skillet and pour in the batter as usual, adding that warm chocolate sauce for finishing. You’ll have a delicious breakfast ready in minutes, ensuring the pancakes are just as fluffy and flavorful as fresh!
Expert Tips for Spanish Churro Pancakes
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Batter Consistency: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep pancakes fluffy; it’s important that a few lumps remain.
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Skillet Temperature: Preheat your skillet properly to ensure even cooking and prevent the pancakes from sticking to the surface.
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Sugar Coating: Toss the pancakes in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they are still warm for the best flavor and texture—this is essential for that churro-like experience.
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Chocolate Sauce Tip: Turn off the heat before adding chocolate chips to the heavy cream to prevent burning and ensure a smooth, glossy sauce.
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Make Ahead: If you’re short on time, prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate; just give it a gentle stir before cooking.
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Portion Control: Keep in mind that these decadent Spanish Churro Pancakes are quite indulgent, so consider serving smaller portions or pairing with fresh fruit for balance.
How to Store and Freeze Spanish Churro Pancakes
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Room Temperature: Enjoy these pancakes fresh for the best flavor, but if necessary, keep them at room temperature for up to 1 hour, covered to prevent drying out.
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Fridge: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave for a quick breakfast fix.
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Freezer: Freeze pancakes individually wrapped in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in the toaster or microwave when you’re ready to indulge again!
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Reheating: For the best texture, reheat pancakes in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated through. Drizzle warmed chocolate sauce on top for that luscious finish!
What to Serve with Spanish Churro Pancakes?
Enhance your breakfast experience with delicious sides that complement these fluffy sensations perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries, bananas, and citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet richness of the pancakes.
- Maple Syrup: Classic maple syrup drizzled over each warm pancake brings a lovely sweetness, perfectly balancing the cinnamon sugar coating.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory element, making your brunch more balanced and satisfying. They create an excellent flavor duo!
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crispiness of bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweetness, creating a delightful harmony on your plate.
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a slight tang, perfect for cutting through the richness of the chocolate sauce.
- Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Sip a warm cup of coffee or creamy hot chocolate to heighten the indulgent experience and keep the cozy vibes flowing.
- Whipped Cream: Elevate your pancakes with a dollop of light and airy whipped cream, adding extra sweetness and a touch of luxury.
- Cinnamon Whipped Butter: A flavored butter wishes for the pancakes, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth and doubles down on that churro essence!
- Cold Brew Iced Coffee: An iced coffee pairing cools off your meal while providing a caffeine kick to start your day with energy!
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For a fun dessert option, serve chocolate-dipped strawberries on the side to double the chocolate goodness and add a fruity twist!
Spanish Churro Pancakes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right ripeness for ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, ensure your buttermilk is fresh and not past its expiration date. If you decide to use milk mixed with vinegar as a substitute, use whole milk for extra richness. Always use fresh eggs, as they bind the ingredients, and make sure to check the expiration date on your baking powder to ensure effective leavening.
What is the best way to store leftover pancakes?
Very! Store leftover Spanish Churro Pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep them from drying out, place a piece of parchment paper between layers. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds until warm.
Can I freeze Spanish Churro Pancakes?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap each pancake individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They’ll keep for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in the toaster or microwave. If you prefer, you can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
What should I do if my pancake batter is too thin?
If you find that your batter is too thin (which can happen if too much liquid was added), add a tablespoon of flour at a time until you reach the desired consistency. The batter should be thick enough to mound slightly on the griddle. Remember, a thicker batter will create fluffier pancakes, while a thinner batter may result in more crepe-like pancakes.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re making these pancakes for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute ingredients: use gluten-free flour for those avoiding gluten, or opt for almond milk instead of buttermilk for a dairy-free version. For vegan alternatives, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use coconut oil instead of butter.
How can I avoid overmixing the pancake batter?
To avoid overmixing, use a gentle folding technique when combining wet and dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, leaving some lumps in the batter. This helps keep the pancakes light and fluffy. You can gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two or three batches to better control the mixing process.
Fluffy Spanish Churro Pancakes With Decadent Chocolate Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, mixing well before setting aside.
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
- Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon in a large bowl.
- Mix the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract in another bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat, lightly greasing the surface.
- Spoon about 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the skillet, cooking until bubbles form on the surface.
- Toss the warm pancakes in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they’re still hot.
- Stack the pancakes on a plate and drizzle generously with the warm chocolate sauce.
- Serve immediately to fully enjoy the warm, fluffy goodness of your Spanish Churro Pancakes.