If you’re looking for a dessert that truly captivates the senses, look no further than this delightful Churro Cake. This heavenly treat for dessert lovers brilliantly marries the rich, warm flavors of cinnamon with a moist, tender cake that’s simply irresistible. Each bite of this three-layer confection reveals not only the delicious taste but also the unmistakable charm of churros and sweet frosting. It’s a cake that quickly becomes the star of any gathering, evoking memories of your favorite bakery treats while being surprisingly easy to create at home.

With its soft texture and creamy cinnamon sugar buttercream frosting, this Churro Cake is a joy for any occasion, from birthdays and holidays to dinner parties and casual family gatherings. The appealing presentation, complemented by crunchy churros and cinnamon cereal crumbs on top, makes it look like something you’d find in a gourmet bakery. Plus, the comforting flavors of cinnamon will surely warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this show-stopping dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Churro Cake

Here are just a few reasons why this Churro Cake stands out:

Flavor-packed delight: The combination of cinnamon-spiced cake and creamy frosting creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
Textural contrast: Enjoy the soft layers of cake with a crunchy churro topping and a hint of cereal for added dimension.
Beautiful presentation: A cake that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious, perfect for celebrations.
Easy to assemble: With straightforward steps, this cake can be made by bakers of all skill levels.
Customizable: There are endless opportunities to modify this recipe to suit your taste preferences.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this delightful baking adventure, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C). Next, you will need three 8-inch cake pans for even baking. Line each pan with parchment paper and lightly grease them to prevent any sticking.

For mixing the ingredients, have on hand a large mixing bowl, a whisk for dry ingredients, and an electric mixer for combining the wet and dry ingredients thoroughly. Make sure to also have a rubber spatula for scraping down the sides of your bowl and distributing the cake batter evenly. It’s always a good idea to have a cooling rack ready for your cakes to cool completely after baking. With these tools at the ready, you’ll streamline the process, ensuring a smooth baking experience.

Ingredients

This Churro Cake is not only delicious but also features a simple list of ingredients available at your local grocery store.

2 1/2 cups (325g) all-purpose flour
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup (168g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups (310g) granulated sugar
1 tbsp vanilla extract
4 large eggs
1 1/4 cups (300ml) 2% milk
2 1/2 cups (560g) unsalted butter (for frosting), room temperature
10 cups (1150g) powdered sugar
2 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for frosting)
8 tbsp (60–75ml) heavy cream or milk
1/4 tsp salt
Churros and cinnamon sugar cereal crumbs for decorating

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans

Start your baking journey by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C). While the oven heats, prepare your three 8-inch cake pans. Cut parchment paper into circles to fit the bottom of each pan, then grease the pans lightly. This simple step prevents any sticky mishaps while allowing your cakes to come out perfectly shaped.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk them together thoroughly to ensure all the leavening agents are evenly distributed. This step is vital as it enhances the rise and texture of your cake, ensuring a delightful softness in the final product.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, begin beating the room-temperature unsalted butter with granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3–4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. The air incorporated here is crucial for a light cake that rises beautifully.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs

Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This gradual mixing ensures that each egg is well combined, promoting a uniform texture in your batter.

Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk

Next, take half of your pre-mixed dry ingredients and gently fold them into the wet mixture. Once combined, pour in the milk and continue mixing until well blended. Add the remaining dry ingredients and mix just until smooth; be careful not to overmix as this might affect the fluffiness of your cake.

Step 6: Divide and Bake

Once your batter is ready, evenly distribute it into the prepared cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 22–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process is essential for proper frosting application!

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting

While your cakes cool, you can prepare the delicious frosting. Begin by beating the room-temperature butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add half of the powdered sugar, mixing well until combined. Then, add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and half of the heavy cream or milk. Mix until the frosting achieves a smooth consistency. Continue adding the remaining powdered sugar and more cream as needed until you reach your desired texture for spreading.

Step 8: Frost the Cake

Once the cake layers are completely cool, it’s time to assemble! Start by trimming the tops of the cakes if necessary to ensure they are even. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread about one cup of frosting on top. Repeat this process for the second layer, and finally, place the third layer on top. Use the remaining frosting to frost the entire cake, making sure to cover all sides for a beautiful finish.

Step 9: Add the Finishing Touches

To elevate your cake’s aesthetic, pipe some decorative swirls of frosting on top for added dimension. Finally, adorn your cake with crunchy churros and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar cereal crumbs. This not only adds an appealing look but also an exciting texture that will surely delight anyone who takes a slice.

Variations

Protein: Consider adding a layer of meat like spiced caramelized apples for a savory twist on this traditionally sweet dessert.
Vegetables: Incorporate pureed pumpkin into the batter for a seasonal variation, enhancing both flavor and moisture.
Spices: Feel free to switch up the spices; adding nutmeg or cardamom can create a delightful aromatic profile.

Cooking Notes

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for an easier mixing process and better cake texture.
If you can, let the cakes cool completely before frosting them; this prevents the frosting from melting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of churro cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delightful contrast.
Pair pieces with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a wonderful afternoon treat.

Tips

Use a cake leveler to trim the tops of the cakes evenly for a more professional look.
Store leftover cake in an airtight container to maintain its freshness; it can be enjoyed for several days.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 37 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 550 (approx per slice)
Protein: 6.2g
Sodium: 220mg

FAQs

Can I make this churro cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes in advance; just wrap them well and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to frost and serve.

How do I store leftover churro cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container or covered tightly. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week, or you can freeze it for longer storage.

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes! If you want a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend can be used, but adjustments in the baking time may be required.

What can I use instead of eggs?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water, commercial egg replacements, or applesauce. Each of these alternatives will help provide moisture and binding to the cake.

Conclusion

This Churro Cake is an absolute must-try for anyone who has a soft spot for sweet, cinnamon-spiced desserts. Its layers are moist and light, while the creamy frosting elevates the entire experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a fresh-made dessert, this cake will surely impress everyone at the table. So gather your ingredients, get baking, and don’t hesitate to share your take on this recipe with family and friends. Feel free to explore variations and make it your own, and be sure to leave a comment on how it turned out for you!