Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bars

If you adore the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar, these Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bars are about to become your new favorite treat. Inspired by the classic churro, these bars combine a soft, chewy texture with that irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating. They’re perfect for a cozy afternoon snack, an easy dessert, or even brunch with friends. Plus, with a simple list of ingredients and a straightforward process, making these bars is a breeze—even if you’re new to baking.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples come together to create a delicious churro-inspired bar.
• Quick to prepare: No complicated steps or long chill times, perfect for a last-minute treat.
• Versatile: Great on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauces like chocolate or caramel.
• Texture with a twist: Optional turkey bacon bits add a fun crunch and a hint of savory contrast.
• Perfectly spiced: The cinnamon flavor is well-balanced, not overpowering, complementing the sweet sugar coating.

What’s in the Bowl

• 1 cup all-purpose flour – the base for our soft churro bars.
• 1/4 cup sugar – sweetens the dough just right.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – for a light, tender crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – adds richness and moisture.
• 1/2 cup water – hydrates the dough, creating that chewy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – gives the bars their signature warm spice.
• 1/2 cup sugar (for coating) – to toss the bars in after baking for that classic churro crunch.
• Turkey bacon bits (optional) – adds a surprising texture and savory kick.

Equipment at a Glance

• Baking pan (8×8 inches recommended) – to bake your churro bars evenly.
• Mixing bowls – for combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Whisk and spatula – to mix and fold ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts.
• Cooling rack – to cool the bars before coating them in cinnamon sugar.
• Knife or bench scraper – for cutting the bars into perfect squares.

Cooking Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bars: The Process

Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare your pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your bars come out cleanly without sticking.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. This cinnamon-infused dry mix forms the flavor base of your bars.

Step 3: Combine wet ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1/2 cup water, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot, or it could cook the batter prematurely.

Step 4: Bring it together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold with a spatula until just combined. If you’re adding turkey bacon bits, fold them in now to evenly distribute the texture throughout.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges will be lightly golden, and the center set but soft.

Step 6: Cool and coat

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. While still slightly warm, toss the bars in the 1/2 cup sugar reserved for coating. This step gives them the signature crispy, sweet exterior reminiscent of classic churros.

Step 7: Slice and serve

Once fully cooled, cut into squares or rectangles. Serve as is or pair with a dipping sauce like chocolate or caramel for an indulgent treat.

Quick Replacement Ideas

• Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Swap water for almond or oat milk to add creaminess.
• Replace turkey bacon bits with chopped nuts or toasted coconut flakes for texture.
• Try maple syrup or honey instead of sugar in the batter for a natural sweetness.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If your bars turn out dry, try reducing the flour slightly or adding a splash more water next time.
• For a gooier texture, underbake by a few minutes but watch closely to avoid raw batter.
• If the cinnamon sugar coating isn’t sticking well, lightly brush the bars with melted butter before tossing.
• Want more cinnamon flavor? Sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar on top immediately after baking.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

You can store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy after freezing, thaw at room temperature and warm slightly in the oven or microwave for that fresh churro feel.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure to check your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

Are the turkey bacon bits necessary?

Nope! They’re optional and used to add a unique texture and subtle savory contrast. Feel free to omit them or swap with other crunchy mix-ins like nuts or seeds.

How do I keep the bars from sticking to the pan?

Using parchment paper or greasing the pan well will help your bars release easily. Letting the bars cool slightly before removing also reduces sticking.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a larger baking pan (such as 9×13 inches) and increase baking time by 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Try Cinnamon Sugar Stuffed Baked Apples for another cinnamon-sugar inspired treat with a fruity twist.
• For a nutty, buttery bar, check out Brown Butter Pear Crumble Bars that bring a sophisticated flavor profile.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve mastered these Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bars, why not experiment with adding a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt? These simple tweaks can elevate your bars to a whole new level. Hosting a brunch or casual get-together? These bars pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating some citrus zest into the batter for a fresh twist on this classic flavor combo.

Whether you keep them classic or customize, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a comforting favorite in your kitchen rotation.

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