Make your next celebration unforgettable with this Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cake, a delightful twist on classic birthday cake ideas. This easy-to-follow recipe brings all the warmth and spice of churros into a fun, festive cake perfect for any occasion. You’ll love creating this unique treat that’s sure to impress your guests.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- All-Purpose Flour: For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
- Granulated Sugar: Can be replaced with coconut sugar for a slightly less refined sweetness.
- Cinnamon: Essential for that classic churro flavor; do not substitute.
- Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best frosting consistency.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (optional, for thinning)
Optional Garnish:
- Extra cinnamon sugar
- Churro-style sprinkles
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Servings: 12-16 slices
- Tools Needed: 9×13 inch baking pan, electric mixer, mixing bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your cake won’t stick.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined. Set this bowl aside for later.
3. Cream Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl with an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
5. Create the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the ¼ cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. This will be the delicious churro layer in your cake.
6. Assemble and Bake the Cake
Pour half of the cake batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle about half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter. Carefully spoon the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon sugar layer and spread it gently to cover. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of the batter. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes. After that, you can carefully invert it onto the wire rack to cool completely. Cooling completely is crucial before frosting.
8. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake cools, prepare your frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract. If your frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
9. Frost and Garnish
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. If desired, sprinkle with extra cinnamon sugar or churro-style sprinkles for a festive finish. Slice and serve this amazing birthday cake idea!
Variation Ideas
- Mini Cakes: Bake in a cupcake tin for individual churro cake bites, adjusting baking time.
- Add Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the frosted cake for a mocha churro twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon sugar swirl for added texture.
- Caramel Drizzle: Add a store-bought or homemade caramel drizzle after frosting for extra decadence.
Storage Instructions
Store your Cinnamon Sugar Churro Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days due to the cream cheese frosting. Allow refrigerated cake to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature, unfrosted and tightly covered. Frost it just before serving.
Q: Why is my cake dry?
A: A dry cake often results from overmixing the batter or overbaking. Ensure you mix just until combined and check for doneness with a wooden skewer.
Q: Can I use oil instead of butter?
A: While possible, butter provides a richer flavor and texture. If you use oil, the cake might be slightly denser.
Q: How do I prevent the cinnamon sugar from sinking?
A: Ensure your batter is not too thin. You can also lightly dust the cinnamon sugar with a tiny bit of flour before sprinkling to help it suspend.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for a beginner baker?
A: Absolutely! This recipe uses straightforward steps and common ingredients, making it an excellent birthday cake idea for beginners.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: You can freeze the unfrosted cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting.