If you love the crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated goodness of churros, then get ready for a cookie that delivers the same irresistible flavor—but with a soft, chewy texture and a gooey chocolate filling! These Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cookies with Chocolate Filling combine the best of both worlds: the classic sweet-spiced crunch of a churro and the rich, melty decadence of chocolate in every bite.
What makes these cookies so special? It all starts with a buttery, cinnamon-infused cookie dough that’s rolled in a golden cinnamon-sugar coating before baking. But the real surprise is inside—a smooth, melted chocolate center that oozes out when you take a bite. These cookies are soft and chewy on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor—just like your favorite fairground treat.
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cookies with Chocolate Filling
There’s a lot to love about these cookies, but here are the top three reasons why they’re completely irresistible:
First, the flavor explosion. These cookies taste just like a fresh churro, thanks to the warm cinnamon, brown sugar, and buttery richness in the dough. The cinnamon-sugar coating adds just the right amount of sweetness, and the melty chocolate center makes every bite even more indulgent.
Then, there’s the texture contrast. You get slightly crisp edges, a soft and pillowy middle, and a gooey chocolate filling that oozes out when you break them open. It’s the ultimate combination of chewy, melty, and crunchy—just like a churro dipped in warm chocolate sauce!
And finally, they’re fun and easy to make. Unlike traditional churros, which require deep frying, these cookies are baked in the oven—making them much simpler and less messy to prepare. Plus, they can be made ahead and stored, so you can enjoy that fresh churro flavor any time.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cookies with Chocolate Filling
For the Cookies:
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
For the Chocolate Filling:
- ½ cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons heavy cream
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cookies with Chocolate Filling
Step 1: Make the Chocolate Filling
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and heavy cream in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Let it cool slightly, then refrigerate for 15 minutes to thicken. This will make it easier to stuff inside the cookies later.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to work with and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Take about 1 ½ tablespoons of dough, flatten it slightly, and place a small spoonful of chilled chocolate filling in the center. Gently fold the dough around the chocolate and roll it into a smooth ball, sealing the edges completely.
Step 5: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and cinnamon. Roll each cookie dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly puffed. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the cookies warm for the ultimate gooey chocolate filling experience! If desired, drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of decadence.
Ingredient Background
Each ingredient in these Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cookies with Chocolate Filling plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor.
1. Cinnamon and Sugar – The Signature Churro Coating
What makes these cookies taste like real churros? The classic cinnamon-sugar coating! The granulated sugar creates a slight crunch, while the cinnamon adds warmth and depth. Rolling the dough in this mixture before baking mimics the crispy, caramelized exterior of fried churros.
2. Butter and Brown Sugar – The Secret to Softness
The combination of butter and brown sugar ensures the cookies stay soft and chewy on the inside, with a slight crispiness on the edges. Brown sugar also adds a subtle molasses-like richness, making these cookies extra flavorful and moist.
3. Chocolate Filling – The Ultimate Surprise Center
The chocolate filling takes these cookies over the top! Instead of dipping churros in chocolate sauce, the rich, melted chocolate is baked right inside. Using semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips ensures a deep, intense chocolate flavor that balances the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar coating.
4. Baking Powder and Baking Soda – The Perfect Rise
A mix of baking powder and baking soda gives these cookies their soft, slightly puffed shape, keeping them light and airy rather than dense. This combination ensures they bake up beautifully without spreading too much.
Technique Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cookies with Chocolate Filling
To make sure your cookies turn out soft, gooey, and full of flavor, follow these expert baking tips:
1. Chill the Chocolate Filling First
- Why? If the chocolate is too soft, it will melt into the dough instead of staying as a gooey center.
- Tip: Refrigerate the melted chocolate for at least 15 minutes before filling the cookies.
2. Seal the Cookie Dough Tightly
- Why? If the edges of the cookie dough aren’t properly sealed, the chocolate will leak out during baking.
- Tip: Gently pinch the dough together after adding the chocolate, then roll it into a smooth ball.
3. Don’t Overbake
- Why? Overbaking will make the cookies dry instead of soft and gooey.
- Tip: Take them out when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underdone—they will continue baking as they cool!
4. Roll the Cookies in Cinnamon Sugar Twice
- Why? Double rolling ensures an extra-crispy, churro-like exterior.
- Tip: Roll them before baking and again while still warm for maximum flavor and texture.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
While these cookies are already perfect as-is, here are some fun ways to elevate their presentation and serving style:
1. Drizzle with Chocolate or Caramel
- Melt extra chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an extra indulgent touch.
- Try a dulce de leche or caramel drizzle for a caramelized, buttery contrast to the cinnamon sugar.
2. Serve with Ice Cream
- These cookies pair perfectly with vanilla, cinnamon, or chocolate ice cream.
- Sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two cookies for an epic churro-inspired ice cream sandwich!
3. Dip in Hot Chocolate or Coffee
- These cookies are amazing dunked into warm hot chocolate, just like traditional churros.
- Pair them with a strong espresso or cinnamon-spiced coffee for a cozy treat.
Freezing and Storing Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cookies
These cookies are perfect for making ahead, and they store well for later enjoyment.
Storing at Room Temperature
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
Refrigerating the Dough
- The dough can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
- Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling into balls.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the unbaked cookies:
- Shape the dough into balls and fill with chocolate.
- Freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag.
- Bake straight from frozen—just add an extra 2 minutes to the baking time.
To freeze baked cookies:
- Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes to restore their warm, fresh taste.
Healthier Twist Ideas
Want to enjoy Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cookies with a healthier twist? Try these easy swaps!
1. Use Whole Wheat Flour
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber and nutrients.
2. Reduce the Sugar
- Use ½ cup of coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a less refined option.
- Reduce the cinnamon sugar coating by rolling them only once instead of twice.
3. Make Them Dairy-Free
- Use plant-based butter and coconut milk instead of regular butter and milk.
- Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream for the chocolate filling.
Serving Suggestions for Events
These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking them for a holiday gathering, a party, or just because you love churros!
1. Holiday Cookie Exchange
- Pack these cookies in festive holiday tins with a ribbon and gift tag.
- Add a small container of extra cinnamon sugar so recipients can refresh the coating before eating!
2. Churro-Themed Dessert Board
- Arrange these cookies on a board with hot chocolate, caramel dip, and fresh fruit.
- Include mini churros, chocolate sauce, and cinnamon-dusted whipped cream for an indulgent dessert spread.
3. Birthday Party Treats
- Serve these cookies with mini cups of Mexican hot chocolate for a fun, interactive dessert.
- For an extra special touch, insert lollipop sticks before baking to create churro cookie pops!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use Nutella instead of melted chocolate?
Yes! You can swap the chocolate filling for Nutella, but freeze small scoops of Nutella first so it doesn’t spread too much during baking.
2. Can I make these cookies without chocolate filling?
Absolutely! You can bake them as plain cinnamon sugar churro cookies without the chocolate for a simpler version.
3. What’s the best chocolate for the filling?
Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a rich, gooey center. Milk chocolate is sweeter but works if you prefer a milder taste.
4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Just replace the flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend for a gluten-free version.
5. How do I keep the cookies fresh longer?
Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain softness.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cookies with Chocolate Filling are the ultimate indulgence—soft, chewy, cinnamon-sugar coated, and bursting with melty chocolate! They bring all the flavors of classic churros into a delicious homemade cookie, perfect for any occasion.
So, what are you waiting for? Get baking, roll those cookies in cinnamon sugar, and take a bite of churro-inspired heaven!