Name: Vegan Churro Cookies with Gooey Chocolate Surprise
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 133 min
Ingredients: 2 cups flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.); 2 teaspoons cinnamon (Ensure using ground cinnamon for best results.); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Check freshness before use.); 0.5 teaspoon baking soda (Check freshness before use.); 1 pinch salt (Can be omitted in low-sodium diets.); 0.5 cup dairy-free butter (Coconut oil can serve as a substitute.); 0.75 cup sugar (Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.); 0.5 cup non-dairy yogurt (Applesauce can be used as an alternative.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Consider using almond extract for variation.); 1 teaspoon espresso powder (Omit if a milder taste is preferred.); 4 oz chocolate bars (Choose your favorite non-dairy chocolate.); 0.25 cup sugar (Used for rolling the cookies.); 2 teaspoons cinnamon (Mix with sugar to add flavor.)

The aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafts through the air, instantly transporting me back to joyful family gatherings spent indulging in traditional churros. But what if I told you that you can savor that same nostalgic experience in a healthier, vegan form? Say hello to my Vegan Churro Cookies with Melted Chocolate Center! These delightful treats are not only egg-free and dairy-free but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for anyone tired of fast food shortcuts. With just a hint of spice and a gooey chocolate surprise, these cookies are bound to become a new favorite, whether enjoyed solo with a cup of coffee or shared with friends at your next get-together. Curious to unlock the secret to these delicious bites? Let’s dive in!

What Makes These Churro Cookies Unique?

Deliciously Vegan: These churro cookies are completely egg-free and dairy-free, making them a fantastic choice for anyone craving sweet treats without compromising on their dietary preferences.

Gooey Surprise: Each bite reveals a warm, melted chocolate center that elevates the experience, bringing back those beloved churro memories in a new, exciting way.

Easy to Make: You won’t need advanced baking skills here—just simple steps to achieve cookie perfection, giving you more time to enjoy them!

Versatile Options: Want to mix things up? Customize these treats by trying different fillings like caramel or even a nutty twist with chopped nuts.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, these cookies will impress even the toughest critics. Enjoy them with a warm beverage—just like enjoying traditional churros!

For another delightful vegan treat, check out my Chocolate Oat Cookies.

Churro Cookies Ingredients

• Discover the secret to making delicious churro cookies!

For the Cookie Dough

Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
Cinnamon – Adds warm spice and flavor; ensure using ground cinnamon for best results.
Baking powder & Baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and maintain a soft texture; check freshness before use.
Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; can be omitted in low-sodium diets.
Dairy-free butter – Acts as the fat that gives cookies their richness; coconut oil can serve as a substitute.
Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps achieve a crisp exterior; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Non-dairy yogurt – Acts as a binding agent and adds moisture; applesauce can be used as an alternative.
Vanilla extract – Provides additional flavor; consider using almond extract for variation.
Espresso powder – Enhances chocolate flavor; omit if a milder taste is preferred.

For the Chocolate Center

Chocolate bars – Provides the gooey center; choose your favorite non-dairy chocolate for the best churro cookies experience.

For Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Sugar – Used for rolling the cookies to create a sweet, crunchy exterior.
Cinnamon – Mix with sugar to add that classic churro flavor to the outer layer.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Churro Cookies with Melted Chocolate Center

Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of dairy-free butter and ¾ cup of sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually incorporate ½ cup of non-dairy yogurt, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the flavors, mixing until well combined and smooth.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt until thoroughly mixed. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined—aim for a moist dough that is not overmixed, to ensure your churro cookies remain soft.

Step 3: Chill the Dough
Once the dough is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough helps enhance the flavors and improves the texture, preventing over-spreading during baking. This important step is key for achieving those perfect vegan churro cookies!

Step 4: Prep Chocolate & Sugar
While the dough chills, chop 4 oz. of non-dairy chocolate bars into bite-sized squares and set them aside. In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon to create a sweet cinnamon sugar coating for rolling your cookies after baking.

Step 5: Shape Cookies
After chilling, scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten it into a cup shape in your hand. Place a chocolate square in the center, pinch the dough around the chocolate to seal it, and roll it gently into a ball. Finally, roll the ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well-coated, preparing it for the oven.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Arrange the shaped churro cookies on the baking tray, giving them space to spread. Bake for 13 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once done, let them cool on the tray for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Churro Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps—mixing the wet and dry ingredients, then chilling the dough in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop the chocolate for the centers and mix the cinnamon sugar coating ahead of time. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough, fill it with chocolate, roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture, and pop them in the oven. This advanced prep ensures that you’ll have warm, delicious churro cookies with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights feel a little sweeter!

Churro Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Customize your churro cookies to suit your taste buds and dietary needs with these fun, creative options!

Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour for gluten-free all-purpose flour to make these cookies suitable for those avoiding gluten. They’ll taste just as delicious!
Nuts: Add Chopped Nuts for a delightful crunch in your dough. Walnuts or pecans provide a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Different Filling: Try Caramel or Peanut Butter filling instead of chocolate for a fun twist on flavor. This swap brings a whole new experience to each bite!
Flavored Yogurt: Use Flavored Non-Dairy Yogurt to enhance taste. Strawberry or vanilla yogurts add a sweet fruity note to the cookies that dance on your palate.
Sugar Alternatives: For a healthier option, replace regular sugar with Coconut Sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia. You’ll achieve sweetness without the added calories!

For another delightful treat, consider checking out my Healthy Carrot Cookies, perfect for when you want something light and nutritious.

Extra Spice: Play with Spices like nutmeg or cardamom for an aromatic twist. A dash of these spices can bring warmth and complexities to the flavor profile.
Heat Level: Add a pinch of Cayenne Pepper to the cinnamon sugar for a spicy kick. The heat will contrast beautifully with the sweet chocolate center!
Chocolate Variations: Experiment with various types of Non-Dairy Chocolate; dark, milk, or even white chocolate can create unique taste sensations in these cookies.

Each of these variations opens a door to new flavors while keeping this delightful churro cookie base!

How to Store and Freeze Churro Cookies

Room Temperature: Store churro cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep them soft and flavorful.

Fridge: If you live in a warm climate or for longer freshness, refrigerate your cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze churro cookies for up to 2 months. Place parchment between each cookie to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat frozen cookies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, just until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Vegan Churro Cookies

Chill Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It enhances flavor and prevents over-spreading, ensuring your churro cookies maintain their shape.
Accurate Measurement: Use a kitchen scale when measuring flour for precise results; this helps to avoid dry or crumbly cookies.
Mixing Technique: Combine dry and wet ingredients just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle!
Baking Know-How: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake—remove them when edges are just golden to keep them soft and chewy inside.
Flavor Options: Feel free to switch up the chocolate filling with caramel or peanut butter for a delightful twist on these churro cookies.

What to Serve with Vegan Churro Cookies with Melted Chocolate Center

Indulging in these delightful churro cookies is just the beginning—pair them with complementary treats for a complete experience.

Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of rich hot chocolate enhances the cocoa flavors in the cookies and creates a cozy pairing.
Cinnamon Coffee: This warm beverage mimics the churro’s spice, making every bite feel like a comforting hug.
Vanilla Coconut Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy, vegan ice cream adds a velvety contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies. It’s an indulgent treat that cools the palate beautifully.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits lightens the dessert experience, balancing sweetness with natural tartness.
Chai Tea: This spiced drink complements the cinnamon sugar coating splendidly, bringing warmth to every enjoyable bite.
Nutty Oat Milk: A glass of this creamy, vegan milk not only pairs well with the cookies but adds a satisfying richness to each crumb.
Pecan Pie Bars: For a dessert spread, these bars have a sweet, nutty flavor that harmonizes wonderfully with churro cookies.
Coconut Whipped Cream: A dollop adds a luscious, creamy element, enhancing every bite while keeping it light and airy.
Brown Sugar Topped Biscuits: Their crumbly texture and hint of sweet contrast the chewy cookies, making for a delightful assortment.
Hazelnut Latte: This nutty latte echoes the flavors of the cookies and makes for a perfect mid-afternoon treat to energize your day.

Vegan Churro Cookies with Melted Chocolate Center Recipe FAQs

What kind of flour should I use for these churro cookies?
Absolutely! All-purpose flour works perfectly; however, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with gluten-free all-purpose flour. Just ensure it has a good binding agent included for optimal texture.

How can I store the churro cookies?
For best results, store your churro cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you live in a hot climate or want to ensure they stay fresh, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Make sure the container seals tightly to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze these churro cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your churro cookies, place a piece of parchment paper between each cookie to prevent sticking and then pack them into an airtight freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, and when you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

What if my dough is too dry or crumbly?
If your dough feels dry, try adding a tablespoon of non-dairy yogurt or a splash of plant-based milk to bring it together. Be careful not to overmix when combining wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to tougher cookies. Aim for a moist, cohesive dough to achieve that soft and chewy texture we all love!

Are there any allergy concerns with these ingredients?
These churro cookies are vegan and free of eggs and dairy, making them a delectable option for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. However, always check labels for allergens like gluten in the flour or cross-contamination in the chocolate. If you’re serving at gatherings, consider informing guests about the ingredients used.

Can I customize the filling for these churro cookies?
Very! While the chocolate filling is a delicious choice, feel free to experiment with other options. Caramel or nut butter can bring a delightful twist, or even a mix of chopped nuts can add a crunchy texture. The more the merrier when it comes to creativity in the kitchen!