Air Fryer Churros with Cinnamon Sugar and Homemade Chocolate Dip
Air fryer churros bring a crispy, sweet treat to your kitchen without the hassle of deep frying. This recipe uses simple ingredients to make golden churros coated in cinnamon sugar, paired with a rich homemade chocolate dip.
Perfect for dessert or a snack, these air fryer treats save time and reduce oil use. If you love Mexican desserts like traditional churros, this version offers the same flavor with less mess.
Why Choose Air Fryer Churros?
Air fryer churros offer a healthier twist on the classic Spanish-Mexican snack. Traditional churros require hot oil for frying, which can be tricky and messy. With an air fryer, hot air circulates to crisp the outside while keeping the inside soft and airy. This method cuts down on calories from oil, making it a smart choice for family treats.
The cinnamon sugar coating gives that signature sweet crunch, and the homemade chocolate dip adds a creamy contrast. These churros pair well with coffee or hot chocolate, ideal for parties or movie nights. Plus, the recipe takes under 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy days.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Churros
Gather these basic pantry items for the churro dough. This recipe serves 4 people and makes about 20 churros.
Churro Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Homemade Chocolate Dip Ingredients
- 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients ensure a light dough that pipes easily and a smooth dip that melts in your mouth. Use fresh eggs and high-quality chocolate for the best taste.
Equipment Needed
You will need an air fryer for this recipe, but no special tools beyond basics. A piping bag with a star tip helps shape the churros, but a plastic bag with the corner cut works too.
Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking. A medium saucepan cooks the dough, and a small bowl melts the chocolate dip.
Keep your air fryer preheated to 375°F for even cooking. This setup makes the process quick and cleanup easy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these clear steps to make air fryer churros. Start with the dough, then coat and cook. Make the dip while the churros air fry.
Step 1: Prepare the Churro Dough
Boil the water, butter, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts completely.
Add the flour all at once. Stir quickly with a wooden spoon to form a ball of dough. Cook for 1 minute while stirring to dry out the dough. It should pull away from the sides of the pan.
Remove from heat. Let the dough cool for 5 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract. The dough will be thick and pipeable.
Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. If using a plastic bag, fill it and snip off a corner to make a 1/2-inch opening.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer and Pipe the Churros
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes. Line the basket with parchment paper cut to fit. Spray lightly with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
Pipe 4-inch strips of dough directly onto the parchment in the air fryer basket. Leave space between each for air flow. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if needed.
Step 3: Air Fry the Churros
Air fry the churros for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Flip them halfway through with tongs for even cooking. They should puff up and feel firm outside.
Remove from the air fryer and place on a wire rack to cool for 2 minutes. Work in batches to keep the temperature steady.
Step 4: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
While the churros are warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Press gently to coat all sides. The heat helps the sugar stick well.
Set aside on a plate. Repeat for all batches.
Step 5: Make the Homemade Chocolate Dip
Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat until it simmers. Do not boil.
Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
Mix in the butter and vanilla extract. Stir until the butter melts. The dip should be glossy and thick.
Pour into a small serving bowl. Keep warm by placing over a pot of hot water if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve air fryer churros warm right after coating for the best texture. Dip them into the homemade chocolate sauce for a decadent bite. Add a sprinkle of sea salt to the dip for a sweet-salty twist.
Pair with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat, or serve alongside fresh strawberries. These churros make great finger food for gatherings. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2 minutes to crisp them up.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Churros
Use room temperature eggs for smoother dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, but do not overdo it. Pipe consistent lengths for even cooking time.
Check your air fryer model; some may need 1-2 minutes less time. Spray the piped dough lightly with oil before air frying for extra golden color.
For the chocolate dip, use dark chocolate if you like less sweetness. Stir constantly while melting to avoid lumps. This recipe works with gluten-free flour too, just adjust the liquid if needed.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of 5 churros (without dip) has about 250 calories, 12g fat, 30g carbs, and 4g protein. The chocolate dip adds 150 calories per 2 tablespoons. This makes it a moderate indulgence compared to fried versions.
Air frying reduces oil, so these churros fit into balanced meal plans. Track portions for dietary needs.
FAQs
Can I make air fryer churros without a piping bag?
Yes, use a sturdy plastic storage bag. Fill it with dough, seal, and cut a small corner. This works for basic shapes, though a star tip gives the classic ridged look.
How do I store leftover churros and chocolate dip?
Store churros in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. Reheat in the air fryer. Keep the dip in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove or microwave in short bursts.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
The basic dough uses butter, but you can swap for vegan butter. For the dip, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free chocolate. Check labels for allergens.
Why are my churros not crispy?
Ensure the air fryer is fully preheated and do not overcrowd the basket. Cook until deeply golden, and coat in sugar while hot. Humidity can affect crispiness, so store in a dry place.
Can I bake churros in the oven instead?
Yes, but results differ. Pipe onto a lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. They will be softer than air fried ones.
What if my chocolate dip is too thick?
Add a splash of warm milk or cream while stirring. Heat gently to thin it out without seizing the chocolate.
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