Churro Cruffins

Churro Cruffins are an irresistibly flaky and crispy fusion of two beloved pastries: the buttery layers of a cruffin with the classic cinnamon-sugar coating of a churro. Made with store-bought puff pastry and fried to golden perfection, these treats are delightfully crunchy on the outside and tender within. A playful, indulgent dessert or breakfast option, they’re perfect for both casual snacking and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Churro Cruffins are quick, simple, and require minimal ingredients, yet deliver maximum flavor and texture. They bring together the charm of bakery-style laminated dough with the nostalgic, sweet crunch of a churro—all without the need for complicated techniques. Ready in under 30 minutes, these pastries are the ideal treat when you’re craving something warm, flaky, and dusted with cinnamon sugar.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions

1. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Brush lightly with melted butter.
2. Roll the pastry tightly into a log, starting from the shorter side.
3. Slice the log into 8 equal rounds.
4. Using your fingers, gently fan out each round into a rosette shape by slightly loosening and spreading the layers, then tuck the edges underneath to form a firm base.
5. Heat 1–2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry the cruffins seam-side down in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain briefly on paper towels.
8. In a shallow bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon together.
9. While the cruffins are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
10. Serve immediately for the best crispness and flavor.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8 cruffins
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 260 kcal per cruffin

Variations

• Stuffed Cruffins: Add a small spoonful of Nutella, dulce de leche, or jam to the center before shaping for a filled version.
• Baked Option: Bake in a muffin tin at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes instead of frying for a lighter take.
• Chocolate Dipped: Dip the tops in melted chocolate and let set for an extra indulgent finish.
• Spiced Sugar Mix: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for a spiced twist.
• Savory Version: Omit the sugar and cinnamon, and fill with cheese or herbs before frying or baking.

storage/reheating

Churro Cruffins are best enjoyed fresh and warm for maximum crispness. However, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. To reheat, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy. For longer storage, freeze uncoated cruffins and reheat in the oven before tossing in cinnamon sugar.

FAQs

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes, homemade puff pastry will yield excellent results if you prefer a from-scratch approach.

Can these be baked instead of fried?

Absolutely. Bake in a muffin tin at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown.

Do I need to let the dough rise?

No, puff pastry does not require rising, making this a fast and easy pastry option.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as canola or vegetable oil.

How do I keep them crispy?

Serve them fresh and avoid covering them while still warm, which traps steam and softens the exterior.

Can I add fillings to the cruffins?

Yes, fillings like chocolate, jam, or sweet cream cheese can be added before rolling and shaping.

How do I shape the rosettes properly?

Gently spread the layers apart after slicing and pinch the bottom edges underneath to help them hold their shape while frying.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, they’re fun, sweet, and kid-friendly—just be cautious around the hot oil during preparation.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use more puff pastry sheets and adjust the frying batches accordingly.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Use dairy-free puff pastry and substitute plant-based butter or oil for brushing.

Conclusion

Churro Cruffins are a delightful cross between two pastry favorites, delivering crispy, golden layers and irresistible cinnamon-sugar sweetness in every bite. Quick to make and endlessly adaptable, they’re a playful treat that brings bakery-level charm to your home kitchen. Whether served for brunch, dessert, or a special snack, these cruffins are sure to become a repeat favorite.

Churro Cruffins

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A delightful hybrid of churros and cruffins: layers of flaky, laminated dough shaped like a muffin and fried until golden, then rolled in cinnamon sugar for a crispy, cinnamony bite.

• Author: Mari
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 8 cruffins 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Fusion
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Vegetable oil, for frying

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Instructions

1. Unfold thawed puff pastry and brush lightly with melted butter.
2. Roll the pastry sheet into a log, then slice into 8 equal rounds.
3. Using your fingers, gently fan out each round into a rosette shape, tucking edges under.
4. Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry cruffins in batches, seam-side down, for 2–3 minutes per side until puffed and golden.
6. Drain on paper towels briefly.
7. In a shallow bowl, whisk together sugar and cinnamon.
8. Roll warm cruffins in cinnamon sugar until evenly coated.
9. Serve immediately for best crispness.

Notes

• Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
• Use a thermometer to maintain consistent frying temperature.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying—work in batches.
• Can be filled with cream or chocolate for variation.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cruffin
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 105mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg