The moment the aroma of cinnamon and sugar fills the kitchen, memories of cozy family breakfasts come rushing back. One morning, while brainstorming ways to elevate my usual pancake recipe, I decided to give in to an unexpected idea: churro pancakes! I imagined the warm, fluffy texture of pancakes combined with the delightful sweetness and spice of churros. Adding fresh strawberries only amplifies the joy, creating a luscious topping that turns a simple breakfast into something truly special.
Whether you’re tired of the same old breakfast routine or just craving something indulgent yet surprisingly easy, these churro pancakes with strawberries are here to rescue your mornings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a plateful of joy that impresses both family and friends alike. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s destined to become your new brunch obsession!
Why love Churro Pancakes with Strawberries?
Indulgent flavors: The blend of cinnamon and sugar creates an irresistible sweetness that reminds you of your favorite churros.
Easy preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends.
Fresh strawberry goodness: Juicy, fresh strawberries elevate your breakfast beyond the ordinary, adding a burst of color and flavor.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress your family or guests with a dish that’s both familiar and uniquely delightful.
Versatile toppings: Whether you prefer maple syrup, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of nuts, customize it to satisfy your cravings.
Churro Pancakes with Strawberries Ingredients
For the Batter
• 4 oz cream cheese – adds a rich and creamy texture that makes these pancakes incredibly fluffy.
• ¾ cup cold heavy whipping cream – using cold cream yields lighter pancakes; you can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• ½ tsp vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor, making each bite memorable.
• 1 ¼ cup milk – regular milk works great, but almond milk can be a delicious alternative.
• 1 egg – brings everything together; a flax egg could be used for a vegan option.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – provides the structure needed for these delightful pancakes.
• 3 tsp baking powder – ensures fluffy pancakes; double-check your baking powder’s freshness for the best rise.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – sweetens the batter perfectly; you may reduce this for a less sweet pancake.
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
• 2 Tbsp ground cinnamon – infuses each pancake with that classic churro flavor that’s simply irresistible.
For Serving
• Maple syrup – drizzles beautifully over warm pancakes, complementing the flavors perfectly.
• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries – sliced strawberries add freshness and a pop of sweetness to your breakfast, enhancing the churro pancakes with strawberries goodness!
How to Make Churro Pancakes with Strawberries
-
Blend Together: In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until you achieve soft peaks. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the pancakes, keeping it fresh and airy.
-
Whisk Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk and the egg until well combined. This joyful blend is your pancake foundation, so give it your best effort!
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder into the milk and egg mixture. Stir gently until the batter is smooth—remember, a few lumps are perfectly okay; overmixing can lead to tough pancakes!
-
Cook the Pancakes: Spray a nonstick skillet with cooking spray, heating it over medium heat. Pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake and cook for 3-4 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until golden brown.
-
Add Cinnamon Sugar: In a shallow bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Once pancakes are cooked, toss each one in this delightful cinnamon-sugar mixture for that classic churro flavor.
-
Serve with Freshness: Stack the churro pancakes on a plate, and generously top with sliced strawberries. Drizzle with warm maple syrup and a dollop of your whipped cream cheese mixture for an indulgent finish.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar for an added touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Churro Pancakes with Strawberries are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor cozy breakfasts without the morning rush! You can mix the cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, and vanilla and keep this delicious whipped cream mixture refrigerated for up to 24 hours before serving. Additionally, you can prepare the pancake batter and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before cooking, as the ingredients may settle. When you’re ready to indulge, simply cook the pancakes as directed, toss them in cinnamon sugar, and top with fresh strawberries—your weekend brunch will be just as delightful with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Churro Pancakes with Strawberries?
Elevate your breakfast table with delightful pairings that enhance the warm, sweet flavors of churro pancakes.
-
Crispy Bacon: Adds a savory, salty element that perfectly balances the sweetness of the pancakes. The rich flavor contrasts beautifully.
-
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, complementing the rich pancakes while offering a refreshing crunch. It’s a vibrant addition that adds nutrients too.
-
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a luscious, creamy texture that enhances each bite of the churro pancakes. Perfect for those who love indulgent breakfasts!
-
Cinnamon-Spiced Apples: Sautéed apples with a hint of cinnamon offer a warm, spiced compliment that echoes the churro theme while introducing a delightful texture.
-
Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of your favorite brew enhances the entire experience, providing a comforting warmth that pairs nicely with the sweetness.
-
Maple-Glazed Sausages: These subtly sweet, savory sausages add a hearty component that embraces the flavors of your meal, making every forkful satisfying.
-
Chocolate Syrup: For those who love decadence, drizzling some chocolate syrup on top introduces a delightful sweetness that turns breakfast into dessert.
-
Orange Juice: A glass of bright, tangy orange juice adds a refreshing finish to the meal, cleansing the palate after each mouthful of deliciousness.
How to Store and Freeze Churro Pancakes with Strawberries
Room Temperature: Store leftover pancakes at room temperature for up to 2 hours; always cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm.
Fridge: Place cooled churro pancakes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pancakes in a single layer using parchment paper, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat frozen pancakes in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or in a toaster for a crispy finish. Serve warm with fresh strawberries on top!
Tips for the Best Churro Pancakes
-
Soft Peaks: Ensure your cream cheese and whipping cream mixture achieves soft peaks before chilling; this keeps your pancakes fluffy and light.
-
Don’t Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense churro pancakes, losing that delightful fluffiness.
-
Consistent Heat: Use medium heat when cooking; too high can burn the pancakes, while too low will leave them raw inside.
-
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Roll your warm pancakes in the cinnamon-sugar mix immediately after cooking. This will ensure the mixture sticks and enhances the churro flavor.
-
Fresh Strawberries: Using ripe strawberries will elevate the dish with their natural sweetness, providing a perfect balance to the churro pancakes.
Churro Pancakes with Strawberries Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize these pancakes to match your flavor cravings and dietary needs!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a blend of gluten-free flour to keep the pancakes fluffy and delicious.
-
Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese and heavy cream for vegan alternatives like cashew cream and coconut milk for allergen-friendly tastiness.
-
Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for an exotic flavor that dances on your taste buds. It’s a delightful surprise!
-
Chocolate Chip: Toss in a handful of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips right into the batter for an indulgent twist. Who can say no to chocolate?
-
Fruit Fusion: Replace strawberries with fresh blueberries or sliced bananas for a fruity variation that brings joy in every bite.
-
Maple Pecan: Stir chopped pecans into the batter for delightful crunch, and drizzle with maple syrup for that sweet, nutty goodness.
-
Cinnamon Roll Style: Roll up the pancakes with a filling of cinnamon and sugar before cooking for a fun, spiral effect that’ll make your breakfast even more inviting.
-
Heat It Up: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter to give your pancakes a surprising kick that brightens the morning!
Churro Pancakes with Strawberries Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right strawberries?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red and have a sweet fragrance. Avoid any with dark spots or bruises, as these may be overripe. Fresh strawberries should feel firm to the touch and have bright, green leaves for the best flavor.
How should I store leftover churro pancakes?
Place your cooled churro pancakes in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat for the best texture. Cover with a lid to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze churro pancakes?
Very! To freeze churro pancakes, first allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Once frozen, transfer the pancakes to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months!
What should I do if my pancake batter is too thick?
If your batter ends up a bit too thick, don’t fret! Simply whisk in a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, a few lumps are fine, but you want it pourable enough to yield those fluffy pancakes!
Are churro pancakes suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version of these churro pancakes. This will keep the taste and texture just as delightful!
How long do churro pancakes last in the fridge?
In the fridge, churro pancakes will last for about 3 days. Make sure they are in an airtight container. When reheating, do so slowly over low heat, ensuring they remain warm and keep that wonderful fluffy texture.
Irresistible Churro Pancakes with Strawberries for Blissful Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until soft peaks form and chill in the fridge.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined.
- Sift the flour and baking powder into the milk and egg mixture. Stir gently until the batter is smooth.
- Spray a nonstick skillet with cooking spray, heat over medium heat, pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake and cook until bubbles form. Flip and cook until golden.
- Combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Toss cooked pancakes in the mixture.
- Stack pancakes on a plate, top with sliced strawberries, and drizzle with maple syrup.