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Easy Air Fryer Churro Bites

These air fryer churro bites offer a crispy exterior and soft interior without deep-frying. This recipe uses a pâte à choux dough and air frying technique to create a healthier, easier version of the classic treat. Enjoy these delightful bites warm, coated in cinnamon sugar.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil spray
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • wooden spoon
  • stand mixer or hand mixer
  • Piping bag
  • Large star tip or round tip
  • Kitchen shears
  • Air Fryer
  • shallow dish

Method
 

  1. Make the Dough: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, salt, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the butter is melted.
  2. Add Flour: Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until a smooth dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
  3. Incorporate Eggs: Transfer the dough to a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or use a hand mixer). Beat on medium speed for about 1 minute to cool the dough slightly. With the mixer running, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The dough should be smooth and glossy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Prepare for Air Frying: Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip (or a round tip if you prefer).
  5. Pipe and Cut: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with vegetable oil spray. Pipe the dough into 1-2 inch lengths directly into the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each bite. Use kitchen shears to cut the dough at the tip as you pipe.
  6. Air Fry: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the churro bites are golden brown and crispy. Check them halfway through and shake the basket gently for even browning.
  7. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: While the churro bites are air frying, combine the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish.
  8. Coat and Serve: Immediately after removing the churro bites from the air fryer, toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Ensure the pâte à choux dough is cooked properly on the stovetop to reduce excess moisture. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for at least 5 minutes. Lightly spray the churro bites with vegetable oil spray before air frying to promote even browning. Toss the hot churro bites in cinnamon sugar immediately after removing them from the air fryer. Store leftover churro bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a minute or two to restore crispness.