Easy Homemade Air Fryer Churro Bites
These Fluffy Air Fryer Churro Bites are my go-to when the kids are begging for a treat but I’m not in the mood to deal with a heavy pot of bubbling oil. They have that signature golden, crisp exterior that shatters slightly when you bite into it, giving way to a center that is incredibly light and pillowy.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1.5 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp melted butter optional, for extra stickiness
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low and add the flour all at once. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon until a dough ball forms and a thin film appears on the bottom of the pan (about 1-2 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat vigorously until the egg is fully incorporated and the dough is smooth.
- Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
- Pipe 1-inch pieces of dough into the air fryer basket, cutting with scissors. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and firm.
- While churros cook, mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
- Toss the hot churro bites in the cinnamon sugar immediately after removing from the air fryer. Serve warm.