Introduction
The Churro Cinnamon Sugar Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that brings the sweet, warm flavors of traditional churros into a soft, moist cake form. This easy-to-make recipe provides a unique twist on the classic poke cake by infusing it with sweetened condensed milk and topping it with a delicious cinnamon sugar blend. The combination of textures and flavors creates a snack that is both comforting and indulgent, making it a perfect companion for afternoon tea or a quick treat after dinner.
Drawing inspiration from the beloved churro, this poke cake encapsulates the nostalgic elements of this favorite fairground treat, such as the delightful cinnamon and sugar coating. Each bite offers a tender exterior and a moist interior, enhanced by the gooey sweetness of the condensed milk that fills the poke holes. This dessert is not only visually appealing but is designed for single servings, allowing everyone to enjoy their slice of cake without the fuss of slicing a larger cake.
Ideal for celebrations or casual gatherings, the Churro Cinnamon Sugar Poke Cake is sure to impress with its simplicity and unforgettable flavor combination. Serve it at a birthday party, a cozy family gathering, or simply as a sweet indulgence to brighten your day.
Recipe Overview
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Baking Time: 18-20 minutes
– Yield/Servings: 4 squares
– Difficulty: Not specified in the recipe
Ingredients
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk (for poking)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
– Whipped cream or frosting (optional, for serving)
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour is a crucial ingredient that provides the structure needed for the Churro Cinnamon Sugar Poke Cake. It acts as the primary component in the batter, allowing the cake to rise properly during baking. The gluten formed from the flour gives the cake its tender and soft texture while ensuring it holds together well when cut into squares.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda
These leavening agents work together to create a light and airy cake. Baking powder releases carbon dioxide when activated by moisture and heat, helping the batter to rise. Baking soda, on the other hand, needs an acid (in this case, the buttermilk) to activate and will also contribute to the cake’s overall lift and fluffiness. Together, they help achieve the perfect cake texture.
Salt
Though often overlooked, salt plays a significant role in enhancing the flavors of the cake. It not only balances the sweetness of the sugar but also amplifies the overall taste experience by bringing out the other flavors present in the batter. A pinch of salt can make a world of difference in baked goods, ensuring a well-rounded flavor profile.
Unsalted Butter
Using unsalted butter adds richness and moisture to the cake while allowing control over the salt content. Melting the butter before incorporating it into the batter adds an extra layer of moistness, ensuring that the cake is soft and tender. The buttery flavor also complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Granulated Sugar
Granulated sugar serves multiple purposes in the cake, primarily contributing sweetness. It plays a vital role in the texture of the cake, promoting browning during the baking process leading to a desirable golden crust. Additionally, sugar helps retain moisture, which keeps the cake from drying out.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract adds a warm and aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cake. It’s a classic ingredient in many desserts and works well to deepen the sweetness of the batter. In this poke cake, the vanilla complements the cinnamon and sugar topping, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk adds tenderness to the cake and infuses it with a subtle tang that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. The acidity of buttermilk interacts with the baking soda to create a light and fluffy texture, while moisture from the buttermilk ensures that the cake remains soft even after baking.
Ground Cinnamon
Ground cinnamon is essential to the churro-inspired flavor of this poke cake. It is present in both the cake batter and the cinnamon sugar topping, imparting a warm and spicy aroma that is synonymous with churros. The cinnamon not only enhances the flavor but lends itself to the overall appeal of the dessert, making each bite reminiscent of the popular treat.
Sweetened Condensed Milk
The sweetened condensed milk is integral in delivering the poke aspect of the cake. When drizzled over the holes poked in the cake, it seeps in to create a rich, moist interior that echoes the essence of a churro. This addition provides a sweetness level that perfectly complements the cinnamon sugar topping.
Whipped Cream or Frosting
While optional, whipped cream or frosting can elevate the Churro Cinnamon Sugar Poke Cake, enhancing its visual appeal and adding additional creaminess. A dollop of whipped cream can provide a light contrast to the cake’s moist texture, while frosting adds a sweeter element, making it an indulgent treat.
Preparation Steps
Preparation of the Churro Cinnamon Sugar Poke Cake is straightforward and manageable, even for novice bakers.
Preheating the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper oven temperature is crucial for ensuring an even bake. A baking dish measuring approximately 6×6 inches should be prepared by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This method allows for easy removal of the baked cake without risk of sticking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly combined. This step ensures there are no clumps in the dry ingredients, which leads to a uniform texture throughout the cake. Proper mixing techniques are essential for a well-integrated batter that rises correctly during baking.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This step is crucial as it not only combines flavor but also incorporates air into the mixture, contributing to the overall lightness of the cake batter. Mix until just emulsified to prevent overworking the batter, which can lead to a denser texture.
Instructions for Achieving a Uniform Wet Mixture
To ensure that your wet ingredients blend smoothly, it’s essential to start with room temperature ingredients. This means allowing the melted butter to cool slightly before adding it to the other wet components. Whisking the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and buttermilk together vigorously breaks down any sugar granules and integrates the flavors thoroughly. The key here is to achieve a homogeneous mixture before adding it to the dry ingredients; any lumps left in the mixture can result in an uneven batter and inconsistent texture in your final cake.
Incorporating Mixtures
When it comes time to combine the dry and wet mixtures, the technique is crucial to maintaining the light, fluffy texture of the cake. First, pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to make gentle folds through the batter, rather than vigorous stirring. The goal is to mix until just combined, with some visible flour remaining. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to a denser cake. Remember, a few small flour pockets are acceptable; they will typically absorb moisture as the cake bakes.
Baking the Cake
Baking temperature and time play a pivotal role in achieving the perfect Churro Cinnamon Sugar Poke Cake. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and keep a close eye on the baking time, which should be between 18 to 20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, but no wet batter. If the toothpick comes out sticky, return the cake to the oven for additional 2-3 minute intervals until fully baked. Additionally, avoid opening the oven door repeatedly as it can cause temperature fluctuations, leading to uneven baking.
Poking the Cake
Poking the cake is not merely a decorative touch; it is a crucial step that introduces the sweetened condensed milk into the cake’s interior, enhancing its moisture and flavor. To poke holes effectively, use the end of a wooden spoon or a skewer—this not only creates uniformly sized holes but also prevents damaging the overall cake structure. Space the holes about an inch apart all over the surface to allow for even absorption of the sweetened condensed milk, transforming each slice into a moist treat.
Drizzling with Sweetened Condensed Milk
Evenly distributing sweetened condensed milk is fundamental to achieving the desired flavor throughout the cake. After poking the holes, gently drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the surface of the cake. It may help to pour it into a small squeeze bottle or use a spoon for more controlled dispensing. Allow a moment for the milk to seep into those holes; this moisture will not only sweeten the cake but also give it a delightful, gooey texture underneath the crunchy cinnamon sugar topping.
Preparing Cinnamon Sugar
Creating the cinnamon sugar topping might seem straightforward, but the right balance of ingredients will determine its success. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar with ground cinnamon, ensuring that the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar. A good starting point is a ratio of 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar to ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon—this provides a lovely, spicy kick without overpowering the sweetness. Mix thoroughly using a fork or whisk to break up any clumps and allow for a consistent flavor profile.
Adhering Topping to Cake
Maximizing the flavor of your topping requires that it adheres properly to the warm cake. Immediately after sprinkling the cinnamon sugar mixture over the freshly baked cake, press down lightly with your hand or a spatula. This action creates a bond between the sugar topping and the cake crust, ensuring that each bite is infused with that delicious churro cinnamon flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Presenting your Churro Cinnamon Sugar Poke Cake can elevate the dessert experience. Cut the cake into squares, and for a delightful aesthetic, arrange these squares on a decorative plate. You might consider placing a dollop of whipped cream next to each slice or using a turquoise-colored frosting to complement the warm tones of the cake. For an extra luxurious touch, provide a drizzle of caramel sauce over the whipped cream or even melted chocolate to create a striking contrast in flavors.
Plate Presentation
To make your churro cake visually inviting, choose a decorative plate that enhances the cake’s golden crust. Consider adding some sprigs of mint or a dusting of additional cinnamon sugar around the edge of the plate for additional color and interest. Using a cake stand can elevate the dessert, literally and figuratively, allowing its charming family-friendly presentation to shine.
Garnishes
Enhancing your dessert doesn’t stop at cream; a cinnamon stick or a thinly sliced candied orange can be a beautiful garnish to create an eye-catching display. Also, consider chocolate curls or shavings as an added decoration around the plate or sprinkled on the top of the cake for a luxurious finish.
Flavor Profile
The Churro Cinnamon Sugar Poke Cake presents a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The warm, fragrant notes of cinnamon blend seamlessly with the sweetness of the sugar, creating a dessert that’s comforting yet indulgent. Each bite reveals a charming juxtaposition of moist cake soaked in sweetened condensed milk against a crisp sugar topping that evokes the flavor profile of churros.
Cake Texture
One of the notable aspects of this cake is its incredible moistness, attributed to both the sweetened condensed milk and buttermilk. The cake has a tender crumb, ensuring it isn’t dry or crumbly. The contrast between the soft interior and the crispy topping offers a satisfying textural experience that makes this cake stand out.
Sweetness Levels
The sweetness in the Churro Cinnamon Sugar Poke Cake strikes an excellent balance. While the added sugar and sweetened condensed milk ensure a rich sweetness, the cinnamon’s warmth prevents it from being overwhelmingly sweet. Each flavor complements the other, creating a dessert that is rich yet perfectly palatable.
Timing and Yield
This recipe is efficient and designed for those looking for a quick yet impressive dessert. The preparation time is around 15 minutes, and after baking, the overall time required is under an hour, making it perfect for impromptu gatherings or quiet evenings at home.
Preparation and Bake Time
From mixing the ingredients to enjoying a slice, the complete process takes around 45 minutes, which includes roughly 20 minutes for baking. This exceptionally short prep time means you can satisfy a sweet craving or impress guests with minimal effort.
Yield
This recipe yields four generous squares, making it ideal for small gatherings or an indulgent treat for one. The single-serve squares allow for easy sharing or simply enjoying a decadent slice at your leisure.
In summary, the Churro Cinnamon Sugar Poke Cake combines a delectable moist texture with the warm flavors of cinnamon and sweetness, making it a perfect quick dessert option. The straightforward preparation and delightful presentation ensure that this cake will satisfy any sweet tooth. Its rich taste profile, balanced sweetness, and creamy interior make it an inviting treat any time of day.
Churro Cinnamon Sugar Poke Cake Recipe
Ingredients Â
- ÂĽ cup all-purpose flour
- ÂĽ teaspoon baking powder
- â…› teaspoon baking soda
- â…› teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ÂĽ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ÂĽ cup buttermilk
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Whipped cream or frosting optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a small baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix melted butter, sugar, vanilla, and buttermilk until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring gently until combined.
- Pour batter into the baking dish and bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Poke holes in the cake and drizzle sweetened condensed milk over the top.
- Mix sugar and cinnamon in a bowl and sprinkle over the warm cake.
- Let the cake cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Serve with whipped cream or frosting if desired.