Chocolate Stuffed Churro Pancakes

This churro-inspired chocolate-stuffed pancake recipe transforms ordinary breakfast into an extraordinary treat, combining the crispy cinnamon-sugar exterior of a churro with fluffy pancakes hiding melted chocolate centers. Perfect for weekend brunches or dessert, these pancakes bring the beloved Spanish street food to your kitchen table in a new, delightful form.

The first time I made these for my family's Sunday brunch, everyone fell silent as they took their first bites. Now they've become our special occasion breakfast tradition, requested for birthdays and holidays when we want something decadent yet homemade.

• Self-raising flour: Creates the perfect fluffy texture while making the recipe foolproof
• Baking powder: Provides extra lift for the lightest pancakes
• Sugar: Balances the warmth of cinnamon without overwhelming sweetness
• Ground cinnamon: Gives that authentic churro flavor both in the batter and coating
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create those golden edges
• Egg: Acts as a binder creating structure in your pancakes
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and complements the chocolate
• Milk: Keeps the batter smooth and pourable
• Chocolate chips or buttons: Create the molten center surprise
• Cinnamon sugar coating: Transforms ordinary pancakes into churro-inspired treats

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Batter:

Whisk together all dry ingredients in a large bowl creating a well in the center. Pour in the wet ingredients starting with melted butter followed by egg, vanilla, and milk. Whisk gently until smooth but avoid overmixing which can make pancakes tough. Let the batter rest while you prepare your pan.

Heat the Pan:

Melt a small amount of butter in a nonstick pan over low-medium heat. The perfect temperature is crucial here as too hot will burn the outside before the inside cooks, while too cool will create pale, soggy pancakes. The butter should sizzle slightly but not smoke.

Create the First Layer:

Pour less than 1/4 cup of batter onto the heated pan, using the back of your ladle to spread it gently into a circle about 4 inches across. Keep the layer relatively thin as you will be adding another layer on top.

Add the Chocolate Center:

Quickly place several chocolate chips or buttons in the center of your pancake batter, keeping them concentrated in the middle. The heat from the cooking pancake will begin melting them, creating your molten center.

Add the Top Layer:

Gently pour a small amount of batter over the chocolate chips, just enough to cover them completely. This seals in the chocolate and creates the stuffed effect. Avoid pouring too much or the pancake will be too thick to cook properly.

Cook to Golden Perfection:

Watch the edges of the pancake closely. Unlike regular pancakes, these won't form bubbles on top to signal when to flip. Instead, peek underneath after about 2 minutes to check for a golden brown color. Flip gently to avoid chocolate spillage.

Coat While Warm:

Immediately after removing from the pan, place each pancake into your prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture. The residual heat and slight moisture help the coating stick. Flip to coat both sides evenly, creating that signature churro exterior.

Serve Immediately:

Arrange your coated pancakes on a serving plate while still warm to enjoy the melted chocolate center at its best. Add optional toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, or ice cream if desired.

Cinnamon is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I keep several types in my pantry but find Ceylon cinnamon works best here with its sweet, delicate flavor that doesn't overpower. My daughter now recognizes the aroma immediately and comes running to the kitchen saying "Churro pancakes!" before I even call everyone to breakfast.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These pancakes can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes until warmed through. The microwave works in a pinch but may make them slightly soggy.

For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They'll keep for up to a month. Reheat from frozen in a toaster or oven without thawing first to maintain their texture.

The cinnamon sugar coating can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in a sealed container at room temperature, ready for your next pancake morning.

Creative Variations

While the classic chocolate filling is hard to beat, these pancakes welcome creative adaptations. Try using white chocolate chips with a few fresh raspberries for a fruity twist. Butterscotch chips create a caramel-like center that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon exterior.

For a grown-up version, add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the chocolate before stuffing, or mix a tablespoon of orange zest into your batter for a subtle citrus note that complements the chocolate wonderfully.

During fall, try adding a pinch of nutmeg and cloves to the batter and filling with pumpkin-spiced chocolate chips for a seasonal variation that smells as good as it tastes.

Serving Suggestions

These pancakes shine as the star of a special brunch when paired with fresh fruits that cut through the richness. Strawberries or sliced bananas make especially good companions.

For a dessert presentation, stack three pancakes, dust with powdered sugar, and drizzle with warm chocolate sauce. A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside transforms them into a sophisticated plated dessert.

On weekday mornings, serve with a protein-rich side like Greek yogurt topped with a drizzle of honey and chopped nuts to create a more balanced breakfast that will keep everyone satisfied until lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you make the pancakes fluffy?

The combination of self-raising flour and baking powder ensures light and fluffy pancakes. Make sure not to overmix the batter.

→ What type of chocolate works best for the stuffing?

Chocolate chips or buttons are ideal because of their size and melting properties. You can use milk, dark, or even white chocolate to suit your taste.

→ Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

These pancakes are best served fresh for the warm and gooey chocolate center. You can however reheat them gently in a microwave or oven if needed.

→ How do you prevent the pancakes from sticking?

Use a nonstick pan and a small amount of melted butter to grease it. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.

→ What can I serve as toppings or sides?

These pancakes pair wonderfully with whipped cream, fresh fruit like strawberries, or even a dollop of ice cream for an indulgent experience.