1-Preheat your oven: preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two muffin tins with about 16 paper liners to set the stage for success. This prep keeps things organized and ensures your cupcakes bake evenly from the get-go.

2-Prepare the cake mix: prepare the cake mix according to the package directions in a large bowl, then stir in the dry vanilla pudding mix and ground cinnamon until everything blends smoothly. This step adds that extra moisture and flavor that makes these cupcakes stand out. Portion the batter evenly among the liners, filling each about three-quarters full, so they rise just right without spilling over.

3-Bake the cupcakes: Bake for approximately 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs, then let them cool completely on a rack.

4-Prepare the frosting: cream together the softened butter, vanilla, and ground cinnamon in a bowl until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, until the frosting thickens up nicely, using the milk to adjust the consistency if it gets too thick.

5-Frost and garnish: Pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes and garnish each one with a piece of baked churro and a dusting of cinnamon sugar for that final wow factor.