Save A fun, savory-sweet fusion treat combining cheesy pancake pops with crunchy pretzels, tangy buffalo ranch, and a touch of churro-inspired cinnamon sugar. These Cheesy Pretzel Buffalo Ranch Churro Cake Pancake Pops are perfect for snacks or appetizers, and they're vegetarian-friendly.
The first time I baked this quirky hybrid, my friends couldn't believe how a sweet churro twist could work with cheesy pancake pops and buffalo ranch. Their surprised faces and delighted crunch made it a staple at every game night after.
Ingredients
- Pancake Batter: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 cup buttermilk, 2 large eggs, 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- Cheesy Filling: 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- Churro Coating: 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- Crunchy Topping: 1 cup crushed pretzels, 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional)
- Buffalo Ranch Drizzle: 1/3 cup ranch dressing, 2 tbsp buffalo sauce
Instructions
- Prep & Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a cake pop or mini muffin pan.
- Pancake Batter:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. Add wet to dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Cheesy Filling Mix:
- Fold in cheddar cheese and cream cheese until evenly distributed.
- Fill & Bake:
- Spoon batter into the prepared pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden and set. Let cool 5 minutes before unmolding.
- Churro Coating:
- Mix sugar and cinnamon for the churro coating. Brush each pop with melted butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar.
- Buffalo Ranch Drizzle:
- Mix ranch dressing and buffalo sauce for the drizzle. Set aside.
- Pretzel Coating & Serve:
- Roll each pop in crushed pretzels to coat the bottom half. Sprinkle with chives if desired. Insert sticks into each pop. Drizzle with buffalo ranch sauce just before serving.
Save This recipe sparked laughter and requests from my family, especially after my nephew declared it the "best weird snack ever" at our weekend get-together.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, cake pop or mini muffin pan, pastry brush, measuring cups and spoons, sticks/skewers
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 180, Total Fat 10 g, Carbohydrates 16 g, Protein 5 g
Ingredient Swaps
Try swapping cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for a different cheesy twist
Save Finish with a generous buffalo ranch drizzle and serve immediately for the ultimate flavor and crunch combo. These pops will disappear fast at any party.
Common Questions
- → Can I use a different cheese blend?
Yes, swap cheddar for gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.
- → How do I keep pops crunchy?
Roll them in fresh crushed pretzels just before serving for best texture.
- → Can I make these ahead?
Prepare pops, refrigerate, then reheat at 300°F for five minutes to refresh flavor and texture.
- → Is this snack suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all listed ingredients are vegetarian-friendly, including the cheeses and ranch sauce.
- → How spicy are the buffalo pops?
The buffalo sauce adds moderate heat; add cayenne for extra kick or omit for milder flavor.
- → Can I omit the cinnamon sugar coating?
Skip for a savory-only version; or mix cinnamon with sugar for a sweeter finish.