Description
These Air Fryer Churro Bites are a simple and delicious treat that delivers crispy perfection with minimal oil. Made from a smooth choux-style dough, these bite-sized churros are air fried to golden brown and then coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, they come together easily and are best served warm with your favorite dipping sauce such as chocolate or caramel.
Ingredients
Scale
Churro Dough
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Dipping Sauce (Optional)
- Chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce
Instructions
- Combine Water, Butter, and Salt: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, and salt. Heat over medium until the mixture reaches a rolling boil and the butter has fully melted.
- Add the Flour: Remove from heat and immediately add all the flour at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon or sturdy spatula until a smooth dough forms that pulls away from the sides.
- Cool the Dough Slightly: Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and allow it to cool for 5 to 10 minutes to avoid cooking the eggs when added.
- Add the Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Though the dough might look curdled initially, continue mixing until it becomes smooth and glossy.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly until evenly combined.
- Transfer to Piping Bag: Place the dough in a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Alternatively, use a large zip-top bag with a corner cut off.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Pipe the Churro Bites: Pipe small 1-2 inch pieces of dough directly into the air fryer basket, leaving space between each to prevent sticking. Work in batches if needed.
- Air Fry: Cook for 6 to 8 minutes or until the bites turn golden brown and are cooked through, checking for doneness by cutting one open if necessary.
- Remove and Repeat: Carefully remove cooked bites and place on a wire rack to cool slightly. Repeat until all dough is used.
- Combine Sugar and Cinnamon: Mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl until evenly blended.
- Coat the Churro Bites: While still warm, gently toss the churro bites in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the bites warm and crispy with your favorite dipping sauce for best flavor.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook churro bites in batches for even crisping.
- Allow the dough to cool before adding eggs to avoid scrambling them.
- Use a large star piping tip to get the classic churro ridged texture.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest texture, as they can become soggy upon cooling.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer for best results.
