Churro Caramel Crunch Cupcakes Recipe

If you’re craving a treat that marries the warm, nostalgic flavor of churros with the rich indulgence of caramel and a delightful crunch, you are in for a real joy with this Churro Caramel Crunch Cupcakes Recipe. These cupcakes capture the magic of cinnamon-spiced churros in a moist, tender cake, topped with gooey caramel and a crispy cereal crumb finish that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or a special occasion, these cupcakes bring comfort and excitement all at once.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a crucial role. From the fluffy all-purpose flour to the aromatic cinnamon, every element promises that perfect balance of texture and flavor.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the soft, tender crumb of the cupcakes.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Adds the right lift for fluffy cupcakes.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure the perfect rise.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweetness and spices.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings that unmistakable churro warmth and aroma.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives richness and moistness to the batter.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes for that dessert-perfect balance.
• 2 large eggs: Bind and provide structure to the cupcakes.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and rounds out the flavors.
• ½ cup sour cream: Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender with a slight tang.
• ¼ cup milk: Helps achieve the right batter consistency.
• ½ cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling): Infuses that luscious caramel flavor that makes these cupcakes irresistible.
• ½ cup crushed cinnamon cereal (like Cinnamon Toast Crunch): Provides the signature crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.

How to Make Churro Caramel Crunch Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming, line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This simple step ensures your cupcakes bake evenly and come out easily without sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This combination lays the fragrant, flavorful foundation for your churro-inspired cupcakes.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Next, in a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process traps air, contributing to the cupcakes’ perfect rise and tender texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract; this will bring out all the warm flavors in the batter.

Step 5: Incorporate Sour Cream and Milk

Add the sour cream and milk to the wet mixture and stir until everything is well combined. The sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang while keeping the cupcakes wonderfully soft.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the cupcakes dense instead of light and fluffy.

Step 7: Fold in the Caramel Sauce

Gently fold in the caramel sauce, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. This step infuses the cupcakes with bursts of gooey caramel that perfectly complement the cinnamon flavor.

Step 8: Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly among your cupcake liners, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before the fun part.

Step 9: Add the Crunchy Topping

Once cooled, drizzle extra caramel sauce over each cupcake and then generously sprinkle crushed cinnamon cereal on top. This finishing touch delivers that addictive crunch and extra cinnamon kick reminiscent of your favorite churros.

How to Serve Churro Caramel Crunch Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

For an eye-catching presentation, consider adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream alongside the crunchy cereal topping. A small sprinkle of cinnamon or drizzle of warm caramel enhances both flavor and appearance, making these cupcakes look even more tempting.

Side Dishes

These cupcakes shine as a dessert on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of coffee or chai can elevate the entire experience. The mild bitterness of coffee beautifully cuts through the sweet richness, while ice cream adds a cool, creamy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these cupcakes on a rustic wooden board sprinkled with a dusting of cinnamon sugar for a themed party. Or place them in mini paper boxes tied with twine for an adorable gift idea. Their charming look and irresistible taste make them perfect for any gathering, casual or festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Churro Caramel Crunch Cupcakes Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If it’s warm or humid, keeping them in the fridge helps maintain freshness while preventing the cereal topping from becoming soggy.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these later, you can freeze them without the cereal crunch topping. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to two months. Add the crunchy cereal and caramel drizzle fresh after thawing.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked feel, warm the cupcake for about 15 seconds in the microwave or for 5 minutes in a 300°F (150°C) oven. Be sure to add fresh caramel and cereal toppings afterward for maximum crunch and gooey goodness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cereal for the crunch topping?

Absolutely! While cinnamon cereals like Cinnamon Toast Crunch work beautifully, feel free to experiment with your favorites. Just choose cereals that have a bit of cinnamon or sweetness and a sturdy texture to keep the crunch.

Is sour cream necessary in this recipe?

Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness, resulting in a tender crumb. If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt for similar results.

Can I make these cupcakes dairy-free?

Yes, by swapping unsalted butter with a dairy-free margarine and using a dairy-free milk alternative along with a plant-based caramel sauce, you can create a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.

Do I have to use caramel sauce inside the batter?

The caramel sauce folded into the batter is key to that rich caramel flavor throughout the cupcake. Omitting it would lose some of the unique character of this recipe, but you can adjust the amount if you prefer a subtler taste.

How do I prevent the cereal topping from getting soggy?

Adding the cereal topping right before serving is the trick to maintaining crunch. If you store cupcakes for later, keep the toppings separate and add just before enjoying.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way this Churro Caramel Crunch Cupcakes Recipe brings together familiar flavors with a playful twist. It’s like giving a warm churro a cozy cupcake hug wrapped in caramel and crunch. I can’t wait for you to try making and sharing these delightful treats—they’re sure to become a favorite that you’ll come back to again and again.

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