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Light and airy cake churro bites have been the MVP at every birthday party in my house crunch on the outside melt-in-your-mouth in the center and ridiculously easy to whip up These are that sweet treat you pull together on a whim and they disappear just as fast
I still remember the first time I made these for my kids using leftover cake Their friends started requesting them for playdates and now it is kind of my signature party treat
Ingredients
- Angel food cake: Use fresh or day-old store-bought or homemade cake Choose one that feels springy and smells sweet
- Unsalted butter: Melted provides the rich coating needed for the cinnamon sugar to stick Go for real butter with a golden hue for best flavor
- Granulated sugar: Makes that classic churro crust Choose superfine for even coating
- Ground cinnamon: Totally essential for the churro vibe Opt for fresh aromatic cinnamon for the best taste
- Angel food cake tips: Selecting a good angel food cake is key Look for cakes without soggy spots and that bounce back when gently pressed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier
- Cut the Cake:
- Slice the angel food cake into bite-sized one-inch cubes Use a serrated knife for clean edges and minimal crumbs
- Mix the Cinnamon Sugar:
- Combine granulated sugar with ground cinnamon in a small bowl Stir until the color is even and fragrant
- Butter the Cubes:
- Using a pastry brush coat each cake cube with melted butter on all sides A light layer is plenty for crisp edges
- Coat in Cinnamon Sugar:
- Toss the buttered cubes in the cinnamon sugar mixture until every surface sparkles and smells delicious
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Spread out the coated cubes in a single layer on your lined baking sheet Keep space between each to ensure even crispiness
- Bake to Perfection:
- Pop the tray in the oven and bake for eight to ten minutes Watch closely after the eight-minute mark as the edges turn golden brown
- Cool and Serve:
- Let cool for a few minutes so they set up Serve warm or at room temperature for the best texture
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My favorite part to prep is the cinnamon sugar coating The kitchen smells sugary and spicy and it always reminds me of making cinnamon toast with my grandmother after school She would let me sneak the first warm bite before sharing with anyone
Storage Tips
Let the churro bites cool completely before storing Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to twenty-four hours You can crisp them in the oven for a few minutes if needed after storing
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need a dairy-free version swap in melted coconut oil for butter It gives a hint of coconut flavor but will still help the cinnamon sugar stick Gluten-free angel food cake works wonderfully for those with wheat sensitivities
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bites with small bowls of chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping They are also fun alongside ice cream vanilla or cinnamon flavors are perfect for an extra treat
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Cultural Context
Inspired by classic churros but without the hassle of deep-frying this recipe borrows the cinnamon-sugar finish and gives it a light American cake twist Just like street churros everyone can grab a handful and eat with their fingers
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use homemade angel food cake?
Absolutely, either store-bought or homemade angel food cake works beautifully for these bites.
- → How do I keep the bites crispy?
Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet and enjoy soon after baking for the best texture.
- → Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, substitute coconut oil for butter to make these bites dairy-free and still achieve great flavor.
- → What dipping sauces go well?
Chocolate or caramel sauce are delicious choices, adding another layer of sweetness and richness.
- → Can I prepare these ahead?
These bites are best enjoyed the day they are made for maximum crispness and freshness.