Classic Healthy Air Fryer Churro Bites
These classic churro bites are made healthier in an air fryer for a crispy, delightful treat. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Medium bowl
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Piping bag
- Large star tip (Wilton 1M or 21)
- Air fryer
- Serving platter
Ingredients
Churro Dough
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar for dough
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar for coating
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon for coating
Other
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Optional: Chocolate sauce, caramel dip, or dulce de leche for dipping
Instructions
Churro Dough Preparation
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, salt, and 1 teaspoon sugar; bring to a rolling boil over medium heat, stirring until the butter melts.
- Remove the saucepan from heat, add all the flour at once, and stir vigorously until a smooth dough ball forms.
- Return the saucepan to low heat and stir the dough for 1-2 minutes to dry it out slightly.
- Transfer the dough to a medium bowl, let it cool for 5-10 minutes, then add the large egg and beat until fully incorporated and the dough is smooth and glossy.
- Transfer the finished dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
Air Frying
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray the basket with non-stick cooking spray.
- Pipe 1-inch to 2-inch lengths of dough into the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece, and lightly spray the tops of the churro bites with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 8-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy; gently shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Finishing Touches
- While churro bites are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture (1/4 cup granulated sugar + 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon) until fully coated.
- Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Dipping sauces like chocolate sauce or caramel elevate the churro experience, but they are delicious on their own too!