Name: Air Fryer Churros Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 2 cups water; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; ½ cup unsalted butter (melted); 2 cups granulated sugar (for coating); 2 tablespoons cinnamon

Churros are a beloved treat, often found at fairs and carnivals, but with this Air Fryer Churros Recipe, you can whip them up in the comfort of your own kitchen! Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these churros are coated with a delightful cinnamon-sugar mixture, making them the perfect snack or dessert. The best part? You can achieve that golden-brown perfection without the guilt of deep frying. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe!

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of this Air Fryer Churros Recipe lies in its simplicity and the science behind it. By using an air fryer, you get that crunchy exterior and soft interior without submerging the churros in oil. The combination of flour, eggs, and butter creates a dough that puffs up beautifully in the air fryer, while the cinnamon-sugar coating adds an irresistible sweetness. Plus, with the air fryer’s efficient heat circulation, you’ll have churros ready in no time!

What Goes Into Air Fryer Churros Recipe

2 cups (474ml) water – Provides the base for the dough.
2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness to the dough.
2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the churros.
2 large eggs – Binds the dough and adds richness.
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted – For brushing the churros before coating.
2 cups granulated sugar – The main ingredient for the sugar coating.
2 tablespoons cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor to the sugar.

Essential Tools for Success

Air Fryer – The star of the show, ensuring a crispy result without frying.
Mixing Bowls – For combining the ingredients smoothly.
Whisk – To beat the eggs and mix the wet ingredients.
Piping Bag with Star Tip – For shaping the churros into perfect swirls.
Baking Sheet – To hold the churros before cooking.

Cook Air Fryer Churros Recipe Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the water, softened butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.

Step 2: Add the Flour

Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately add the all-purpose flour and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs

Allow the dough to cool for about 5 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the churros.

Step 5: Pipe the Churros

Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pipe long strips of dough onto the parchment, about 6 inches in length.

Step 6: Brush with Melted Butter

Brush the churros lightly with melted butter before placing them in the air fryer.

Step 7: Air Fry Them

Place the churros in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning them halfway through for even cooking.

Step 8: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

While the churros are cooking, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Once the churros are done, remove them from the air fryer and immediately coat them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Variations for Dietary Needs

Gluten-Free – Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Dairy-Free – Use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk in place of regular butter.
Lower Sugar – Reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and coating or use a sugar substitute.
Spiced Churros – Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon-sugar for added flavor.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

This Air Fryer Churros Recipe is not only easy to make but also a fun activity for the whole family. Feel free to experiment with different flavorings in the dough, like orange zest or almond extract, for a unique twist. Remember, the dough should be thick but pipeable; if it seems too runny, add a touch more flour.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

These churros are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to regain their crispiness before serving.

Common Questions

Can I freeze churros?

Yes! You can freeze uncooked churros. Pipe them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to a month. Cook from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I make the churros extra crunchy?

For extra crunch, consider air frying them for an additional 1-2 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Coating them in the cinnamon sugar while they are still hot will also help create a delightful crust.

Can I use a different type of oil for brushing the churros?

Absolutely! You can use coconut oil, vegetable oil, or any other oil of your preference for brushing the churros before air frying.

What can I serve with churros?

Churros are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with chocolate sauce, caramel, or dulce de leche for dipping. You can also serve them with whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to create your very own batch of Air Fryer Churros! This delightful treat is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for celebrations or a cozy night in. The process is straightforward, and the results are simply irresistible. Enjoy the deliciousness of churros without the mess or guilt of frying. Gather your ingredients, preheat that air fryer, and let the churro-making magic begin!