Churro Cruffins

Churro cruffins take me back to a lazy afternoon when I craved the warm cinnamon sugar flavor of churros but didn’t want to deep fry anything because I wanted something easier yet just as delicious. I used buttery puff pastry, rolled it with sugar, and baked them into golden swirls. The moment I took a bite, the crispy outside and soft, flaky layers reminded me of the perfect churro in pastry form.

Since then, I make these cruffins often because they’re simple, elegant, and always impress anyone who tries them. The cinnamon sugar coating and buttery texture make them irresistible with every bite.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Puff pastry – The flaky, buttery base for the cruffins
• Butter – Helps the cinnamon sugar stick and adds richness
• Cinnamon – Brings that classic churro warmth and aroma
• Sugar – Sweetens and caramelizes to create a crispy coating
• Vanilla extract – Adds a subtle depth to the flavor
• Salt – Balances the sweetness perfectly
• Tools You’ll Need
• Rolling pin – To gently roll out the puff pastry
• Pastry brush – For brushing butter evenly on the dough
• Muffin tin – Shapes the pastry into beautiful swirled cruffins
• Knife or pizza cutter – To cut pastry strips neatly
• Mixing bowl – For combining cinnamon and sugar
• Oven – To bake the cruffins until golden brown

Instructions

Step 1

I start by preheating my oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a muffin tin.

Step 2

I roll out the puff pastry sheets slightly, then brush them with melted butter.

Step 3

I sprinkle a generous layer of cinnamon sugar over the buttered pastry.

Step 4

I cut the pastry into strips and roll each strip into a spiral shape.

Step 5

I place the rolled pastries into the muffin tin, allowing them to rise while baking.

Step 6

I bake for 20 to 25 minutes until puffed and golden brown.

Step 7

As soon as they come out of the oven, I brush with more melted butter and toss them in extra cinnamon sugar for that churro finish.

Tips

I sometimes add a pinch of nutmeg to the sugar mix for extra spice. For a filled version, I pipe in dulce de leche or cream cheese frosting after baking. If you want an extra crispy exterior, sprinkle a little sugar directly on the muffin tin before placing the pastry.

Ways to Serve

These cruffins are perfect warm with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. I also love serving them at brunch or as a sweet treat for guests. For an indulgent dessert, drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make churro cruffins ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake them ahead and reheat in the oven, but they’re best enjoyed fresh.

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Absolutely, homemade puff pastry works beautifully if you have the time.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, bake first, cool completely, then freeze and reheat before serving.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these churro cruffins because they’re an easy yet impressive pastry that tastes like a bakery treat. Enjoy every flaky, cinnamon-sweet bite.

Happy Cooking!

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