Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Sweet Air Fryer Churro Bites are a game-changer for churro lovers! Not only do they have the classic, crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior that makes churros so irresistible, but they’re also healthier than traditional deep-fried churros. The air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed while still delivering that perfect crunch and sweet, cinnamony goodness. Plus, they’re quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family treat, a quick snack, or a fun dessert for a party.

Sweet Air Fryer Churro Bites Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup water
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
1 tsp cinnamon (for coating)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture comes to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the flour. Mix until a dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Remove the dough from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Then, add the vanilla extract and cinnamon, stirring until fully incorporated.
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Roll the dough into small bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them in the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket to ensure they cook evenly.
Air fry the churro bites for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
While the churro bites are cooking, mix the sugar and cinnamon together in a shallow bowl.
Once the churro bites are done, remove them from the air fryer and immediately toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Total Time: 20-25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra indulgence, drizzle the churro bites with melted chocolate or serve with a chocolate dipping sauce.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these churro bites gluten-free.
Spicy Cinnamon: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon-sugar coating for a spicy twist on the classic churro flavor.
Mini Churro Bites: For a more delicate treat, roll the dough into smaller pieces before air frying to create mini churro bites.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover churro bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the churro bites back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their crispy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 10-15 seconds, though they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Can I make these churro bites ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to make the churro bites, simply roll them and air fry them as directed.

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

Yes, you can bake the churro bites at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Can I freeze the churro dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the churro dough for up to 1 month. When ready to cook, let the dough thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling and air frying.

What can I serve these churro bites with?

These churro bites pair perfectly with chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or even vanilla ice cream. You can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream for a fun dessert.

Can I make the churro bites larger?

Yes, if you prefer larger churros, you can form the dough into longer pieces. Just keep in mind that they may need a longer cooking time, so check them frequently while air frying.

How can I make the churro bites extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, lightly spray the churro bites with cooking spray before air frying. This will help them brown evenly and get extra crisp on the outside.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe if you prefer a dairy-free option.

How can I make the cinnamon sugar coating stick better?

To make the cinnamon-sugar coating stick better, toss the churro bites in the coating while they are still hot from the air fryer. This will help the sugar adhere more easily.

Are these churro bites vegan?

To make these churro bites vegan, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or coconut oil. Use a plant-based milk for the dough if needed.

Can I add fillings to these churro bites?

While traditional churros are filled with chocolate or cream, these air fryer churro bites are not filled. However, you could pipe a filling into the dough before cooking or serve with a filling on the side.

Conclusion

These Sweet Air Fryer Churro Bites are the perfect treat when you want something quick, delicious, and a little lighter than traditional fried churros. With their crispy exterior, soft center, and sweet cinnamon sugar coating, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your snack rotation. Whether you’re making them for a family treat or a party, these churro bites will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy!