Cinnamon Sugar Churro Waffles

Imagine biting into a crispy, golden waffle that’s been rolled in cinnamon sugar like a churro from your favorite fair — that warm, spiced sweetness coating every ridge. These churro-inspired waffles deliver that iconic cinnamon-sugar magic right from your waffle iron, transforming breakfast into a celebration without the deep fryer or long lines.

The genius here is the churro coating technique: while the waffles are still hot, they get brushed with melted butter and tossed in cinnamon sugar, creating that signature sweet crust. The waffle batter itself is enriched with vanilla and a hint of cinnamon, so every bite carries that beloved churro flavor through and through. It’s the kind of breakfast that makes weekend mornings feel special, yet comes together faster than a trip to the coffee shop.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 20 minutes from mixing bowl to table, using standard waffle iron settings
• No deep frying required — all the churro flavor without the oil mess or cleanup
• Make the batter the night before and store covered in the fridge for effortless mornings
• Crispy exterior with a fluffy interior that holds up perfectly to maple syrup or chocolate sauce
• Kid-approved breakfast that doubles as dessert, perfect for birthday mornings or brunch gatherings

Pro Tips

• Brush the butter on immediately after removing each waffle from the iron — the hot surface helps the cinnamon sugar adhere and creates that authentic churro crust
• Don’t skip preheating your waffle iron for a full 5 minutes; a properly hot iron creates the crispy ridges that catch and hold the cinnamon sugar coating
• Mix the cinnamon sugar in a shallow dish rather than a bowl for easier coating — you can press the waffle gently into the mixture to coat every groove
• For extra-crispy edges, let the waffles cook 30 seconds longer than your iron’s indicator suggests, watching for a deep golden color

Cinnamon Sugar Churro Waffles

Transform breakfast into a carnival treat! These churro waffles are crispy, cinnamon-coated, and ready in 20 minutes — no deep fryer needed. The weekend brunch recipe your family will request every time. Save for your next special morning! 🧇

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 1 3/4 cups whole milk room temperature
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted, for brushing
• 1 cup granulated sugar for coating
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon for coating

Method

 

1. Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high heat for at least 5 minutes while you prepare the batter.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon until evenly combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until lightly beaten, then add the milk, 1/2 cup melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Small lumps are fine — do not overmix or the waffles will be tough.
5. In a shallow dish, mix together the 1 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons cinnamon for the coating. Set aside with the 1/2 cup melted butter and a pastry brush.
6. Lightly grease the waffle iron if needed, then pour the recommended amount of batter for your iron size (typically 1/2 to 3/4 cup). Close the lid and cook until the waffle is golden brown and steam stops escaping, about 4-5 minutes.
7. Immediately after removing each waffle from the iron, brush both sides generously with melted butter while still hot.
8. Working quickly, press the buttered waffle into the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. Gently press to ensure the sugar adheres to all the ridges.
9. Serve immediately while warm and crispy, or keep finished waffles in a 200°F oven on a wire rack until ready to serve. Repeat with remaining batter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the batter up to 12 hours in advance and refrigerate in an airtight container. Give it a gentle stir before using, as some settling may occur. The waffles will be just as fluffy and delicious.

What if my waffles aren’t crispy enough?

Increase your waffle iron temperature to the highest setting and cook for an additional 30-60 seconds beyond the ready indicator. The cinnamon sugar coating adheres best and stays crispiest on well-browned waffles.

Can I freeze these after cooking?

Absolutely — freeze cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster or 350°F oven for 5 minutes to restore crispness before applying fresh cinnamon sugar.

Do I need a Belgian waffle maker for this recipe?

Any waffle iron works beautifully, though Belgian-style makers with deeper pockets catch more cinnamon sugar in their grooves. Traditional waffle irons produce thinner, crispier results that some prefer for the churro effect.

Storage & Serving

Store leftover waffles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, though they’re best enjoyed fresh when the coating is at peak crispness. Reheat in a toaster to restore texture before serving. These are incredible with a chocolate ganache drizzle, fresh berries and whipped cream, or simply dunked into hot coffee or Mexican chocolate. For an over-the-top dessert presentation, serve with dulce de leche and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Wake up to the magic of carnival mornings without leaving your kitchen — these churro waffles turn any day into something worth celebrating.