Churros

Introduction

Churros, the delightful Spanish delicacy, have gained global popularity due to their crispy exterior and soft, warm interior. Traditionally deep-fried, these tasty treats are now easier and healthier to make using an air fryer – perfect for those who love indulgence without the guilt. This easy-to-make churros recipe will transport you to a sunny Spanish plaza, all from the comfort of your UK kitchen.

Delicious Air Fryer Churros

Ingredients

  • 125ml of water
  • 60g of unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • A pinch of salt
  • 75g of plain flour
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 50g of caster sugar (for coating)
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • Cooking spray
Ingredients for Churros

Equipment Needed

  • Air fryer
  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Piping bag with a star tip nozzle
  • Baking paper
  • Mixing bowl

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a saucepan, combine 125ml water, the butter, sugar, and salt. Bring this to a boil over medium heat.
  2. Add the Flour: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the flour, stirring continuously until the mixture forms a ball of dough.
  3. Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla: Let the dough cool for a few minutes, then transfer it to a mixing bowl. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating well until smooth and slightly sticky.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C for a few minutes.
  5. Shape the Churros: Transfer the dough into the piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe strips of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with baking paper, cutting with a knife or scissors as needed.
  6. Air Fry the Churros: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Carefully place piped dough strips into the basket, leaving space between each to allow for expansion. Air fry in batches if necessary for 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown.
  7. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: Mix the caster sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Once churros are cooked, toss them in this mixture while they are still warm.
  8. Enjoy: Serve your air-fried churros immediately with chocolate sauce or dulce de leche for dipping.
Air Fried Churros Ready to Eat

Tips and Variations

For an extra indulgent touch, fill your churros with chocolate or caramel before air frying. Simply inject a little filling into the cooked churros using a small piping bag once they've cooled slightly. To create a crispier texture, consider brushing a small amount of melted butter over the churros before tossing them in cinnamon sugar.

Conclusion

This air fryer churros recipe offers a quick, easy, and healthier alternative to deep-fried versions, without compromising on flavour or texture. The air fryer achieves that quintessential crispiness that we all love, while keeping the process almost fuss-free. Whether as a delightful dessert or a tempting snack, these churros will surely become a favourite in your home.