Description
Crispy and light Air Fryer Churros made with butter, flour, eggs — no deep frying! A quick, healthier treat you’ll love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon sugar (plus more for coating)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil spray (neutral oil like canola or avocado)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, unsalted butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the butter is melted and ingredients are fully combined.
- Add the Flour: Once boiling, reduce heat to low and quickly stir in the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Cool the Dough: Remove from heat and let the dough cool for about 5–10 minutes. This step is crucial to avoid scrambling the eggs when they’re added.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.
- Transfer to Piping Bag: Spoon the dough into a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped tip (like a Wilton 1M) to mimic classic churro ridges.
- Pipe onto Parchment Paper: Pipe 4–5-inch lengths of dough onto a parchment-lined tray or board. Freeze for 15 minutes to help the churros hold their shape.
- Preheat and Prepare Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil spray.
- Air Fry the Churros: Place churros into the basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Lightly spray the tops with oil spray. Air fry for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
- Coat with Sugar: While still warm, roll the churros in granulated sugar or cinnamon sugar (optional) for that traditional touch.
Notes
Let the dough cool slightly before adding eggs to prevent curdling.
If the dough feels too thick to pipe, add 1–2 teaspoons of water.
Avoid overfilling the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping.
Freeze extras before air frying for easy prep next time.