Air Fryer Churros are a lighter, quicker twist on the classic Spanish and Mexican dessert that’s loved for its crisp exterior and soft, tender center. Traditionally deep-fried, churros can feel indulgent and messy to make at home. This air fryer version delivers the same irresistible texture and cinnamon-sugar flavor with far less oil and fuss. Perfect for dessert, parties, or a sweet snack, these churros come together easily and satisfy cravings without compromising on taste.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it makes homemade churros accessible to everyone. There’s no pot of hot oil to manage, no lingering fried smell, and the results are consistently delicious. The air fryer gives the churros a beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside soft and airy. It’s a stress-free way to enjoy a bakery-style treat at home.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
This is a must-try dish because it transforms a traditionally deep-fried dessert into a healthier, beginner-friendly recipe. Air Fryer Churros are quick to prepare, fun to make, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this recipe delivers classic flavor with modern convenience.
Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Approximate Calories: 220–260 calories per serving
Course: Dessert / Snack
Cuisine: Spanish / Mexican
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
For Coating:
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional for Serving:
- Chocolate sauce
- Caramel sauce
Cooking Directions
Prepare a simple choux-style dough, pipe into churro shapes, air fry until golden, then coat in cinnamon sugar while warm.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 2: Reduce heat to low and add flour all at once, stirring constantly until a smooth dough forms and pulls away from the sides.
Step 3: Remove from heat and let the dough cool for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in vanilla extract, then add the egg and mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
Step 5: Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
Step 6: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper and pipe churro strips directly onto it.
Step 7: Lightly spray churros with cooking spray.
Step 8: Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 10–12 minutes, until golden and crisp.
Step 9: Mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
Step 10: Roll warm churros in the cinnamon sugar coating and serve immediately.
How to Serve This Recipe
Serve Air Fryer Churros warm for the best texture and flavor. Pair them with chocolate sauce, dulce de leche, or caramel for dipping. They’re perfect as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet snack with coffee or hot chocolate.
Recipe Tips
- Use a star-shaped piping tip to create classic ridges that crisp beautifully.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
- Spray churros lightly with oil to help achieve a golden color.
- Coat churros in cinnamon sugar while they are still warm so it sticks well.
Variations
Chocolate-Filled Churros: Pipe churros thicker, cook, then inject chocolate sauce using a piping tip.
Pumpkin Spice Churros: Replace cinnamon with pumpkin spice seasoning in the sugar coating.
Orange Cinnamon Churros: Add orange zest to the dough for a citrus twist.
Vegan Churros: Use plant-based butter and replace the egg with a flax egg.
Mini Churro Bites: Pipe shorter pieces for bite-sized treats, reducing cook time slightly.
Freezing and Storage Time
Refrigerator Storage: Store cooked churros in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer Storage: Freeze cooked, uncoated churros for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 170°C (340°F) for 3–4 minutes, then coat with cinnamon sugar.
Special Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Saucepan
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Piping bag with star tip
- Air fryer parchment liner
Conclusion
Air Fryer Churros are a delightful way to enjoy a classic dessert with less oil and less effort. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated in warm cinnamon sugar, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat that’s easy to make at home. This recipe is proof that indulgent desserts can be both simple and satisfying when made with modern cooking methods.
Air Fryer Churros
Air Fryer Churros are a lighter, quicker twist on the classic Spanish and Mexican dessert that’s loved for its crisp exterior and soft, tender center. Traditionally deep-fried, churros can feel indulgent and messy to make at home.
Ingredients
For Coating:
Optional for Serving:
Instructions
-
Step 1: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil.
-
Step 2: Reduce heat to low and add flour all at once, stirring constantly until a smooth dough forms and pulls away from the sides.
-
Step 3: Remove from heat and let the dough cool for 5 minutes.
-
Step 4: Stir in vanilla extract, then add the egg and mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
-
Step 5: Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
-
Step 6: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper and pipe churro strips directly onto it.
-
Step 7: Lightly spray churros with cooking spray.
-
Step 8: Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 10–12 minutes, until golden and crisp.
-
Step 9: Mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
-
Step 10: Roll warm churros in the cinnamon sugar coating and serve immediately.
