Churro waffles combine the best of two beloved treats—crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated churros, and fluffy, golden waffles. This recipe is the perfect solution if you’ve ever found yourself torn between a warm plate of waffles or a crunchy, sugary churro. Not only are they easy to make, but they also bring a delightful contrast of textures and flavors in every bite.

This recipe is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Whether you’re making a special weekend treat for your family or looking to impress guests, these churro waffles will quickly become a favorite. Plus, they require simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a lot to love about churro waffles, and once you try them, you’ll see why they’re so irresistible. Here are a few reasons why this recipe stands out:

Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside – These waffles give you the satisfying crunch of a churro with the soft, airy texture of a waffle.
Perfect balance of cinnamon and sugar – Each waffle is generously coated in a sweet and aromatic cinnamon-sugar mixture, making every bite extra indulgent.
Versatile and customizable – Enjoy them plain, drizzle them with chocolate or caramel sauce, or serve them with fresh fruit and whipped cream.
Quick and easy to make – You can whip up a batch in no time with just a few pantry staples.
A fun twist on a classic – If you love waffles and churros, this recipe offers the best of both worlds uniquely and deliciously.

Detailed Ingredients and Instructions

To make the best churro waffles, it’s important to get the right balance of ingredients and follow the steps carefully. Here’s everything you need to know:

Ingredients

The base of these waffles is similar to a classic waffle batter, but the key difference lies in how they’re finished—with a generous coating of cinnamon sugar and optional dipping sauces.

For the Waffles:

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon
Eggs
Milk (whole or buttermilk for extra richness)
Vanilla extract
Unsalted butter, melted

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon
Melted butter (for brushing)

For Toppings and Dipping (Optional):

Chocolate sauce
Caramel sauce
Whipped cream
Fresh berries

Instructions

Prepare the Batter
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and cinnamon in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the waffles light and fluffy.
Cook the Waffles
- Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with non-stick spray or butter.
- Pour the batter into the waffle iron, following your machine’s recommended measurements.
- Cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp on the edges.
Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
- In a shallow dish, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- Brush the warm waffles with melted butter, then coat them generously in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately with your favorite toppings or dipping sauces. Enjoy while warm!

Tips, Variations, and Storage Options

One of the best things about churro waffles is how easy they are to customize. If you want to add extra flavors, make them healthier, or store leftovers for later, here are some helpful tips and variations.

Tips for Perfect Churro Waffles

Use room-temperature ingredients – Bringing eggs and milk to room temperature before mixing helps create a smoother batter, leading to fluffier waffles.
Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing can make the waffles dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix just until combined.
Grease the waffle iron well – To prevent sticking, always lightly grease your waffle iron with butter or non-stick spray before cooking.
Keep waffles warm – If you’re making multiple batches, place cooked waffles on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven to keep them warm and crisp while you finish cooking.
Coat while warm – Brush the waffles with melted butter and roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture so the coating sticks properly.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Churro Waffles – Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a subtle chocolate flavor. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top for extra indulgence.
Pumpkin Spice Churro Waffles – Replace the cinnamon with a pumpkin spice blend for a warm, fall-inspired twist.
Gluten-Free Churro Waffles – Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure the flour includes xanthan gum for better texture.
Dairy-Free Option – Substitute the milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk and use dairy-free butter.
Extra Crispy Waffles – Let the batter sit for 5 minutes before cooking for an extra crunchy texture. This activates the baking powder, creating air pockets that make the waffles crispier.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers or want to make churro waffles ahead of time, here’s how to store and reheat them properly.

Refrigeration – Store leftover waffles in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing – Allow waffles to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
Reheating – Warm refrigerated or frozen waffles in a toaster, oven (350°F for 5–7 minutes), or air fryer to restore their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soft instead of crisp.

Equipment Needed

You’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to make the best churro waffles. Here are the must-haves:

Waffle Iron – A standard or Belgian-style waffle maker works best for this recipe. Belgian waffle makers create deeper pockets, which hold more cinnamon-sugar coating.
Mixing Bowls – You’ll need at least two: one for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients.
Whisk or Hand Mixer – A whisk works fine, but a hand mixer can combine ingredients faster and more easily.
Pastry Brush – This makes it easy to evenly coat the waffles with melted butter before adding the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Shallow Dish – A shallow plate or bowl is perfect for rolling the waffles in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

If you love churro waffles, you might enjoy these other delicious and creative breakfast and dessert recipes. Each brings unique flavors and textures that pair well with this sweet and crispy treat.

Classic Belgian Waffles – Light, airy, and crispy, these waffles serve as a perfect base for any topping, from fresh fruit to maple syrup.
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast – A classic French toast recipe with cinnamon sugar, giving it a churro-like crunch.
Churro Donuts – Baked or fried donuts with the same irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating as churro waffles.
Homemade Churros – If you want to try the original treat, making homemade churros is a fun and rewarding experience.
Mexican Hot Chocolate Pancakes – These rich, spiced pancakes have hints of cinnamon and chocolate, making them a cozy pairing for churro waffles.

Pairing/Serving Suggestions

Churro waffles are delicious, but pairing them with the right sides and drinks can elevate the experience. Here are some ideas for serving them in creative and tasty ways.

Best Toppings

Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle warm melted chocolate or chocolate ganache over the waffles for extra indulgence.
Caramel Sauce – A rich, buttery caramel sauce pairs beautifully with the cinnamon sugar coating.
Whipped Cream – A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the crispy waffles.
Fresh Berries – Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries bring a refreshing burst of tartness that balances the sweetness.
Ice Cream – Turn your churro waffles into a dessert by topping them with vanilla, cinnamon, or dulce de leche ice cream.

Drinks to Pair with Churro Waffles

Mexican Hot Chocolate – The warm, spiced flavors of Mexican hot chocolate enhance the cinnamon in the waffles.
Latte or Cappuccino – A frothy coffee drink adds a rich, creamy balance to the sweetness of the waffles.
Chai Tea – With its cinnamon and spice notes, chai tea perfectly matches churro waffles.
Fresh Orange Juice – The natural citrusy sweetness of fresh-squeezed orange juice provides a bright and refreshing contrast.

How to Make Churro Waffles Healthier

If you love churro waffles but want to make them a bit healthier, here are some simple swaps and modifications:

Use whole wheat flour – Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to add fiber and nutrients.
Reduce the sugar – Cut down on the sugar in the batter and use a lighter dusting of cinnamon sugar.
Bake instead of frying – Instead of brushing with butter and rolling in sugar, lightly sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top for a less calorie-dense version.
Use Greek yogurt instead of butter – Adding a bit to the batter keeps it moist while reducing fat.
Try natural sweeteners – Use coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup instead of refined sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making churro waffles, you’re not alone! Here are some common questions and answers to help you achieve the best results.

Can I make churro waffles without a waffle iron?

Yes! Use a grill pan or stovetop waffle mold if you don’t have a waffle iron. Alternatively, you can cook the batter like pancakes in a skillet, though they won’t have the same crispy texture.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to make the batter fresh, but you can prepare it up to a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. If the batter thickens, add a splash of milk to loosen it before cooking.

How do I make the waffles extra crispy?

For crispier waffles, use a Belgian waffle iron and cook the waffles for an extra minute. Letting the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking also helps create a crispier texture.

Can I bake these in the oven instead of using a waffle maker?

While a waffle iron is best for texture, you can bake the batter in a well-greased waffle mold at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

How do I prevent waffles from getting soggy?

Place waffles on a wire rack instead of stacking them on a plate to keep them crisp. If making multiple batches, keep them warm in a 200°F oven while you finish cooking.

Nutrition Information

If you’re curious about the nutritional breakdown of churro waffles, here’s an approximate estimate per serving (without toppings):

Calories: ~250
Protein: ~5g
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Fats: ~10g
Sugar: ~15g

Note: The nutritional values will vary depending on the ingredients and toppings used. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can reduce the cinnamon-sugar coating or use a sugar substitute.

Seasonal and Occasion Variations

Churro waffles are perfect year-round, but you can easily customize them to fit different seasons, holidays, and special occasions. Here are some fun ways to adapt the recipe:

Fall & Winter

Add pumpkin spice or gingerbread seasoning for a cozy, holiday-inspired flavor.
Serve with warm apple compote or spiced pear syrup for a festive touch.
Pair with a hot pumpkin spice latte or eggnog for the ultimate holiday breakfast.

Spring & Summer

Top with fresh strawberries and honey for a light, refreshing twist.
Serve with a scoop of lemon sorbet or coconut ice cream for a summery dessert.
Pair with iced coffee, cold brew, or fresh fruit smoothies for a warm-weather brunch.

Special Occasions

Top the waffles with sprinkles and a drizzle of white chocolate for birthdays.
Make a romantic Valentine’s Day version by cutting waffles into heart shapes and serving with strawberries and chocolate sauce.
Serve a churro waffle breakfast board with different toppings and sauces for brunch gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though churro waffles are easy to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Using Cold Ingredients

If your eggs or milk are too cold, they won’t mix properly into the batter. Let them come to room temperature before using.

2. Overmixing the Batter

Mixing too much can develop too much gluten, making the waffles dense instead of fluffy. Stir just until combined.

3. Not Preheating the Waffle Iron

A cold waffle iron won’t give you crispy edges. Make sure it’s fully heated before adding the batter.

4. Not Greasing the Waffle Iron Enough

Even if your waffle maker is non-stick, a light layer of butter or oil helps ensure easy removal and crispier edges.

5. Waiting Too Long to Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

The cinnamon sugar won’t stick well if the waffles cool too much before adding the coating. Brush with butter and coat immediately while they’re warm.

My Recipe Tips

Want to take your churro waffles to the next level? Here are some expert tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time.

Use buttermilk instead of regular milk – This adds richness and makes the waffles extra fluffy.
Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes – This allows the ingredients to hydrate and results in a better texture.
Brush butter before coating in cinnamon sugar – This helps the coating stick and adds more flavor.
Try flavored sugars – Mix in a little vanilla bean powder or orange zest with the cinnamon sugar for extra depth.
Don’t overcrowd the waffle maker – Cooking too much batter at once can lead to uneven waffles.

Conclusion

Churro waffles are the perfect combination of crispy, sugary churros, and soft, fluffy waffles, making them a treat worth trying. Whether you’re making them for a special breakfast, a fun brunch, or even dessert, they’re guaranteed to impress. This recipe will quickly become a favorite with simple ingredients, easy customization options, and plenty of serving ideas.

Now that you’ve mastered this delicious recipe, why not explore more creative waffle ideas? Try different toppings, pair them with your favorite drinks, and experiment with seasonal variations. However you enjoy them, these churro waffles will bring extra sweetness to your day!