Name: Air Fryer Churro Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup water; 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

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Air Fryer Churro Bites are a delightful treat that brings a little sweetness to any occasion. These crispy, golden-brown bites are easy to make and provide the perfect blend of flavors thanks to their coating of cinnamon and sugar. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of the air fryer, you can whip up a batch of these tasty snacks that will surely impress family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Air Fryer Churro Bites is a great addition to your dessert repertoire for several reasons. Firstly, they are healthier than traditional fried churros since they are made in the air fryer, which requires less oil. Secondly, they are incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for novice cooks or anyone looking for a quick dessert option. Additionally, these churro bites are versatile; you can enjoy them on their own or pair them with dips like chocolate syrup, honey, or Nutella for an added flavor kick. They also make for a fantastic party treat or a fun family snack.

How to Make Air Fryer Churro Bites

Creating these irresistible Air Fryer Churro Bites is a straightforward process that involves a few simple steps. Below, you’ll find everything you need to get started, including the ingredients and directions.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup water
1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Directions

In a pan, combine the water, butter, salt, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough comes together. Switch off the flame.
Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and allow it to cool for 4-5 minutes.
After cooling, add the egg and vanilla extract to the dough. Mix with an electric hand mixer until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a piping bag. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and spray the basket with cooking spray.
Pipe bite-sized churros carefully into the air fryer basket, ensuring there’s some space between each.
Brush the churro bites with melted butter.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
In a bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Once the churros are done, coat them in this mixture.
If the coating doesn’t stick, brush the churros with more melted butter and then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Serve warm with your choice of chocolate syrup, honey, or Nutella for dipping.

Pro Tips for Success with Air Fryer Churro Bites

Piping Technique: Use a large star tip for your piping bag to create the classic churro shape. This will enhance the overall texture and presentation of your churro bites.
Watch the Temperature: Keep a close eye on the air fryer while the churros are cooking. Every air fryer is different, and cooking times may vary slightly.
Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure there’s space between the churro bites in the air fryer. Crowding can prevent even cooking and may lead to uneven crispiness.
Experiment with Dipping Sauces: Don’t hesitate to try different dipping sauces! Beyond chocolate syrup, consider caramel, or even a fruity dip to complement the cinnamon flavor.

Flavor Variations for Air Fryer Churro Bites

Chocolate Filled: Fill your churro bites with a small amount of chocolate ganache before cooking for a delicious surprise inside.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy combination.
Lemon Zest: Incorporate some grated lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing citrusy flavor.
Nutty Flavor: Mix in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the dough for added crunch and flavor.
Coconut Flakes: Coat the churros in shredded coconut along with the cinnamon sugar for a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Churro Bites

Air Fryer Churro Bites are perfect for any gathering or casual snack time. Here are some suggestions to elevate your serving experience:

Party Platter: Arrange churro bites on a large platter alongside a variety of dipping sauces for guests to enjoy. It adds an element of fun and encourages sharing.
After Dinner Treat: Serve churro bites as a dessert option after a family meal or dinner party. Their sweet flavor complements a variety of dishes.
Movie Night Snack: Pair your churro bites with popcorn and soda for a cozy movie night at home.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Air Fryer Churro Bites

To maintain the freshness of your churro bites, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you wish to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze your churro bites. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once they are fully frozen. They can be stored this way for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes for that crispy texture again.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 150
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 150mg

FAQ About Air Fryer Churro Bites

Can I make the churro dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the churro dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to make the churro bites, just let the dough come to room temperature before transferring it to the piping bag.

Can I bake these churro bites instead of using the air fryer?

You can! If you prefer baking, shape the churro dough into bite-sized pieces and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake at 375°F for approximately 15-20 minutes or until golden. However, the texture might not be as crispy as when cooked in the air fryer.

What should I do if my churros are not crispy?

If you find that your churro bites are not crispy, consider cooking them for a few additional minutes in the air fryer. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket for the best air circulation, which helps achieve that delightful crispiness.

How do I reheat leftover churro bites?

To reheat leftover churro bites, place them in the air fryer at 350°F for about 4-5 minutes. This method will restore their original texture and warmth. You can also reheat in a conventional oven if you don’t have an air fryer.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

While you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, it may change the texture slightly, making the churros denser. Using a combination of both flours is a great compromise if you want a healthier option without sacrificing texture.

Are Air Fryer Churro Bites suitable for gluten-free diets?

To make this recipe gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture. The results may vary slightly, but they should still be delicious!

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