Go Back

Air Fryer Churro Bites

Delicious warm bites coated in cinnamon sugar, easy to make in an air fryer for a quick sweet treat.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Spanish
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 1 cup Water Base of the dough. Can use half milk for a richer flavor.
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter Adds flavor and tenderness. Dairy-free butter works too.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar A little in the dough; most is used in the coating.
  • 1 pinch Salt Balances sweetness.
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour Regular flour gives the best puff; a gluten-free blend can work.
  • 2 large Eggs For structure and lift; room temperature is best.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Adds warm aroma; almond extract can also be used.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar Main component for coating.
  • 2-3 teaspoons Cinnamon Fresh for best flavor; adjust ratio for more or less spice.
  • 1 pinch Salt Enhances flavors.
For Frying
  • as needed spray Neutral oil spray Helps the bites crisp and holds the sugar coating.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup water, 4 tablespoons butter, 1 tablespoon sugar, and a pinch of salt to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in 1 cup all-purpose flour all at once. Cook and stir over medium heat until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls from the sides, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  4. Transfer dough to a bowl and let it cool for 5 minutes.
  5. Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, then add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until glossy and thick.
  6. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup sugar with 2 to 3 teaspoons cinnamon and a small pinch of salt. Set aside.
Cooking
  1. Scoop small balls of dough, about 1 tablespoon each, onto the prepared air fryer basket. Leave space between bites.
  2. Lightly spray the tops with oil.
  3. Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, or until puffed and golden. Flip and cook 1 to 2 minutes more if needed for color.
  4. While hot, spray lightly with oil again and toss in the cinnamon sugar until well coated.
  5. Repeat with remaining dough, working in batches so the bites stay airy and do not steam.
  6. For extra crispness, let them sit in the turned-off air fryer for 1 minute with the basket cracked open.

Video

Notes

These bites can be frozen without sugar; warm and toss in fresh coating just before serving. Try different coatings like citrus sugar or powdered sugar for variety.