Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros are a delicious twist on the traditional churro, combining the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices, perfectly cooked in the convenient air fryer. These churros offer a delightful crunch on the outside while staying soft and flavorful on the inside. Easy to make and even easier to gobble up, they will surely make your fall gatherings memorable.
Why Make This Recipe
Why not enjoy a seasonal favorite with a fun twist? Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros are not only delicious but also healthier than their deep-fried counterparts. The air fryer allows you to achieve that golden-brown exterior without excessive oil, making these treats a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, they are simple to prepare and can be served warm for an extra touch of comfort. Prepare to impress your friends and family with these delightful treats that celebrate the beauty of fall!
How to Make Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros
Making Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros is an enjoyable process that results in a sweet, satisfying snack. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to making these delicious treats.
Ingredients :
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon clove
- ½ teaspoon ginger
- ¼ cup butter (room temperature)
- 2 oz shortening
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 to 5 cups powdered sugar
Directions :
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Begin by bringing the water, butter, pumpkin puree, and salt to a boil in a saucepan. Stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients.
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Once boiling, turn off the heat and whisk in the flour until you create a very thick dough. This part is crucial for achieving the right churro texture.
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Working quickly, add the egg to the mixture. Vigorously mix to combine thoroughly. This step may be a bit tricky as the mixture can get clumpy, but don’t worry! A sturdy whisk can help ensure even mixing and avoid a scrambled egg texture.
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Prepare a pastry bag fitted with a large star or round tip. If you don’t have a pastry bag, a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off will work just fine.
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Preheat your air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 10 minutes.
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Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pipe the churro batter into your desired shapes directly into the basket.
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Air fry the churros for approximately 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; depending on the size and shape you create, cooking times may vary.
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While your churros are cooking, prepare the sugar coating by mixing the granulated sugar with cinnamon, clove, and ginger in a bowl or on a plate.
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Once the churros are golden and cooked, toss them in the sugar mixture while they are still hot. Be generous in coating them, allowing that delicious sweetness to cling to every surface.
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Set your coated churros aside to cool slightly. They are best enjoyed warm, but you can also store them in an airtight container for later snacking.
Pro Tips for Success Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros
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Ensure Quick Mixing: The key to avoiding an eggy taste in your churros is to mix in the egg quickly. Aim for a vigorous whisking motion to achieve a homogenous batter.
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Watch Your Sizes: Different sizes will cook at different rates, so for your first batch, keep a close eye to prevent overcooking.
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Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, opt for freshly ground spices when making the sugar coating. They infuse a vibrant aroma and taste!
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Cool Tactics: If you’d like to add more flavors, think about tossing them in flavored powdered sugar or even a drizzle of chocolate for an extra twist.
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Practice Patience: Letting churros sit for a couple of minutes after coating allows the sugar to adhere better and gives you a delightful crunch!
Flavor Variations Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros
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Chocolate Dip: Serve your churros with a warm chocolate dipping sauce for an indulgent treat.
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Maple Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with maple syrup for a sweet glaze that perfectly complements the pumpkin flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts to the sugar coating for a little crunch and added richness.
Serving Suggestions Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros
These delightful churros are perfect for a variety of occasions. Serve them at family gatherings, potlucks, or even casual afternoons with friends. Pair them with a warm cup of cider or pumpkin spice latte for a cozy fall experience. You can also present them on a dessert platter with a variety of dips, turning your churros into a festive centerpiece.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but if you’re looking to prolong their life, consider freezing them. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, sealing it tightly. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the air fryer until crispy, and toss in more sugar for that fresh-out-of-the-fryer taste!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
FAQ About Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Make sure to cook and puree it until smooth before adding it to your dough. Drain off any excess moisture for the best texture.
Are Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros vegan-friendly?
To make this recipe vegan, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and replace the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil.
What should I do if my batter is too thick or too thin?
If your batter is too thick, you can add a small amount of water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it is too thin, slowly add a bit more flour until it thickens.
How do I know when my churros are done cooking?
Churros are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through. Keep an eye on their color as cooking times may vary depending on the shape you create.
Can I customize the spices in the sugar coating?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices in the sugar coating. You can even experiment with flavors like pumpkin pie spice, cardamom, or nutmeg for various flavor profiles.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros are an exciting and delicious way to celebrate the flavors of autumn while enjoying a healthier version of this classic treat. They’re quick to prepare, fun to make, and even better to share with loved ones. Whether you’re sipping cider on a chilly evening or celebrating a festive gathering, these churros are bound to leave a lasting impression. Enjoy your homemade indulgence, and happy cooking!
Print
Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious twist on traditional churros, these Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros combine warm pumpkin and spices, cooked to perfection for a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon clove
- ½ teaspoon ginger
- ¼ cup butter (room temperature)
- 2 oz shortening
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 to 5 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Bring the water, butter, pumpkin puree, and salt to a boil in a saucepan while stirring to combine.
- Once boiling, turn off the heat and whisk in the flour until a thick dough forms.
- Add the egg and mix vigorously until fully combined.
- Prepare a pastry bag with a star or round tip, or use a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off.
- Preheat the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil or line it with parchment paper.
- Pipe the churro batter into desired shapes into the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 15-20 minutes until golden brown, monitoring closely to prevent overcooking.
- Prepare the sugar coating by mixing granulated sugar with cinnamon, clove, and ginger.
- Toss the hot churros in the sugar mixture to coat well.
- Allow churros to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For best flavor, use fresh spices in the sugar coating. Enjoy warm and consider serving with a chocolate dip or maple glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
