Description
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these bite-sized churros are made in an air fryer for a quick, less messy, and healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried churros.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)
- 2–3 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing)
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds until boiling and butter is melted. Stir well.
- Remove from microwave and immediately add flour. Stir vigorously until a thick dough ball forms and pulls away from the sides. Let cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Add vanilla extract, whole egg, and extra yolk. Stir hard until the dough is smooth, glossy, and holds its shape.
- Preheat air fryer to 370°F (190°C). Scoop small portions of dough and roll into balls, then stretch into short cylinders (about 2 inches long). Flatten slightly.
- Lightly spray air fryer basket with oil. Place churro bites in a single layer without overcrowding. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and firm.
- While churros cook, mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl.
- Remove churros from air fryer. While still hot, brush lightly with melted butter and immediately roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Serve immediately while warm and crispy.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and crispiness. If the dough is too wet, add a bit more flour. If undercooked in the middle, lower temperature to 350°F. For a double coating, brush with butter, roll in sugar, brush again, and roll in sugar again.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites per serving
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 2
Keywords: air fryer, churro bites, cinnamon sugar, quick dessert, easy snack, gluten-free option, dairy-free option