Air Fryer Churro Bites

These Sweet Air Fryer Churro Bites bring the fun and flavor of a fairground right to your kitchen—without the mess of deep frying. Golden and crispy on the outside, soft and warm inside, and coated in a cinnamon-sugar blend, these bite-sized treats are incredibly easy to make and perfect for sharing. Made with basic ingredients, they’re ideal for a fun family snack, party dessert, or indulgent weekend treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No deep frying required—just your trusty air fryer
• Made with simple pantry staples
• Crispy, golden texture with a soft interior
• Bite-sized = perfect portion control
• A fun recipe for kids to help with
• Ready in under 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 1 cup plain flour
• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
• 1 large egg

coating:

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon powder

Directions

Prepare the Dough

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, salt, and sugar.
2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the flour all at once.
4. Continue stirring vigorously until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a smooth ball.
5. Remove the pan from heat and let it sit for 4–5 minutes to cool slightly.

Add the Egg and Flavoring

6. Transfer the warm dough to a mixing bowl.
7. Add the vanilla essence and egg.
8. Using a hand mixer (or stand mixer), beat until the egg is fully incorporated and the dough becomes smooth and pipeable.

Pipe the Churros

9. Spoon the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
10. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
11. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray.
12. Pipe small 1- to 2-inch sections directly into the basket, leaving room between each bite for airflow.
13. Alternatively, you can use a spoon to drop dough portions into the basket.

Air Fry

14. Lightly brush the tops of the piped churros with melted butter (optional) for extra crispness.
15. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
16. Work in batches as needed—avoid overcrowding.

Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

17. While the churros are still warm (but not hot), mix together the white sugar and cinnamon powder in a shallow bowl.
18. Toss each churro bite in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
19. If needed, lightly mist the churros with spray oil or melted butter so the coating sticks better.

Serve

20. Serve the churro bites warm with chocolate sauce, dulce de leche, Nutella, or even whipped cream.
21. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor!

Pro Tips and Variations

• Don’t skip cooling the dough before adding the egg—it prevents scrambling.
• For best texture, don’t overcrowd your air fryer basket.
• If the dough is too thick to pipe, add a teaspoon of water at a time to adjust.
• Swap cinnamon-sugar for cocoa sugar or a pumpkin spice blend for seasonal flair.
• Vanilla extract can be used in place of vanilla essence.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm chocolate ganache or dipping sauces
• Top with whipped cream or drizzle with caramel
• Pair with coffee or Mexican hot chocolate
• Add to a dessert board with fresh fruit and cookies

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
• To reheat, air fry at 350°F for 1–2 minutes to regain crispness
• Re-roll in cinnamon sugar after reheating for fresh flavor
• You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate for 24 hours

FAQs

Can I freeze the dough?
Not recommended, as the texture changes. Refrigeration is best.

Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, though they may be slightly softer.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just work in batches when frying or coating.

Can I skip the cinnamon sugar?
You can, but it’s the signature churro flavor! Try powdered sugar instead.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Churro Bites are the ultimate shortcut to churro perfection—crispy, sweet, and simple. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a cozy dessert, this easy recipe brings a touch of carnival magic to your kitchen, minus the oil splatter.

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