Churro Cupcakes

Introduction

Ah, Churro Cupcakes! Imagine the warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon mingling with the sweet allure of buttery cupcakes. These delightful treats are the perfect fusion of a traditional Spanish churro and the classic comfort of a cupcake, creating a dessert that’s not only elegant but irresistibly delicious. Ideal for anyone seeking a twist on the ordinary, these Churro Cupcakes will enchant your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, at room temperature
1/2 cup milk, at room temperature
1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

10 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
4 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Cinnamon Sugar:

2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Churros, for topping (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Oven
Muffin pan
Paper liners for the muffin pan
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Medium bowl
Electric mixer with paddle attachment
Wire rack
Piping bag (for frosting)
Small bowl

Preparation

Starting with Cupcakes: Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line your muffin pan with paper liners to ensure a non-stick experience and set it aside.
Mixing Wet Ingredients: In a measuring cup, whisk together the Greek yogurt and milk until they are well combined and set this mixture aside. This will add a lovely creamy texture to your cupcakes.
Combining Dry Ingredients: Take a medium-sized bowl and whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This blend of ingredients will be the foundation of your cupcakes, giving them structure and flavor.
Creaming Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of your electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar on medium-high speed. Aim for a light and fluffy consistency, which should take about 3 minutes. Following this, beat in the eggs and vanilla, infusing the batter with a rich and comforting aroma.
Alternating Dry and Wet Mixtures: On a low speed, alternate adding your previously mixed dry ingredients and the yogurt/milk mixture in three additions. Start and end with the dry ingredients, beating just until each addition is incorporated. This step is crucial for a well-mixed batter that’s not overworked.
Baking: Equally divide the batter among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. This ensures uniform cupcakes that bake evenly. Place them in the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean. Let them cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Frosting: In your stand mixer, combine butter, cream cheese, and vanilla. Beat them on medium speed until the mixture is smooth, which should take about 2 minutes. Add in the confectioners’ sugar and cinnamon, continuing to beat until smooth. Spoon the frosting into a piping bag and artistically frost your cupcakes.
Creating Cinnamon Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This mixture will be sprinkled over your frosted cupcakes for an added touch of sweetness and spice.
Final Touch: If desired, top the cupcakes with small bites of churros. This adds an authentic churro flair to your cupcakes, making them not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes.

Storing Leftovers

These cupcakes can be prepped up to 2 days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bring them to room temperature at least 30 minutes before serving. It’s advisable to add the mini churros topping just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Enjoy these cupcakes as a standalone dessert or pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea. For a non-alcoholic beverage pairing, a cinnamon-infused hot chocolate complements the cupcakes beautifully.

Nutritional Information

FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free? Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your preferred gluten-free flour blend.
How long do these cupcakes stay fresh? Stored properly in the refrigerator, they stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze these cupcakes? Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes without the frosting for up to a month. Thaw and add frosting before serving.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe? Substitute the Greek yogurt and milk with dairy-free alternatives, and use dairy-free butter and cream cheese for the frosting.
What if I don’t have an electric mixer? You can mix the batter by hand, though it may require more effort to achieve the light and fluffy consistency.

Conclusion

There you have it – a simple yet elegant Churro Cupcake recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a unique dessert, or simply craving something sweet and comforting, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delightful treats!