Sweet Air Fryer Churro Bites are a delightful twist on the classic churro. These bite-sized treats offer the same indulgent flavor and texture of traditional churros but are made in an air fryer, allowing for a lighter option without sacrificing deliciousness. Perfect for snacking or dessert, they are easy to make and an instant hit with family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

There are several compelling reasons to whip up these churro bites. Firstly, making them in the air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil used, making them a healthier choice compared to deep-fried alternatives. Moreover, the preparation is quick and straightforward, meaning you can enjoy fresh churros in no time. Lastly, their portability and size make them ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo while binge-watching your favorite shows.

How to Make Sweet Air Fryer Churro Bites

Ingredients:

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
1 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon powder

Directions:

In a pan, combine water, butter, salt, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and gradually add in the flour, stirring continuously until the dough comes together smoothly. Turn off the heat and remove the pan from the stove.
Transfer the dough from the pan into a large mixing bowl and let it cool down for about 4-5 minutes. Once slightly cooled, add in the egg and vanilla extract. Use an electric hand mixer to thoroughly combine the ingredients until a smooth mixture is achieved.
Transfer the churro dough into a piping bag. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the air fryer basket with a neutral nonstick cooking spray, such as coconut oil spray. Carefully pipe bite-sized churros into the basket, ensuring not to overcrowd them. For variation, you can also drop the dough by the spoonful into the basket.
Lightly brush some butter on top of the churros and cook them in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes until they turn golden brown. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in several batches to cook all the churros evenly.
In a shallow bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon powder. Once the churros are cooked, transfer them directly into the cinnamon sugar mixture. Toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated. If needed, brush the churros with some melted butter (or spray them with water or nonstick cooking spray) before rolling them in the cinnamon sugar to help the mixture adhere better.
Enjoy your churros warm, served alongside your choice of dips such as chocolate syrup, honey, or Nutella. These bite-sized churros are perfect for a sweet indulgent snack!

How to Serve Sweet Air Fryer Churro Bites

Serve these churro bites warm for the best flavor and texture. They pair beautifully with a variety of dips, including chocolate syrup, caramel, or even a simple fruit compote. You can also sprinkle some additional cinnamon sugar on top for added sweetness before serving.

How to Store

To store leftover churro bites, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week. For the best texture, reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving to restore their crispiness.

Tips to Make

Quality of Ingredients: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor. This will elevate the taste of your churros significantly.
Proper Cooling: Ensure the dough cools down a little before adding the egg to prevent cooking it prematurely.
Uniform Size: When piping the churros, try to make them uniform in size for even cooking and a consistent look.

Variation

Feel free to experiment with different flavors! You can add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate version or sprinkle some orange zest in the cinnamon sugar mix for a citrusy twist. Another great option is to incorporate fillings like Nutella or cream cheese into the churro dough before air frying.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option, but it may slightly change the texture and flavor.

2. How long can I store the churro dough before cooking?
The churro dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before piping.

3. Can I freeze cooked churro bites?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked churro bites for up to three months. Just be sure to allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the air fryer when ready to enjoy!