Crunchy AF Churros (Printable Page)
# What You Need:
→ Dough
01 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
02 -
1 cup water
03 -
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 -
2 large eggs
08 -
Cooking spray
→ Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
09 -
1/2 cup granulated sugar
10 -
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
11 -
2 tablespoons melted butter
# How to Make It:
01 -
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a rolling boil where bubbles continuously break the surface.
02 -
Reduce heat to low and add all flour at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon for 2-3 minutes until the dough forms a smooth ball and a thin film forms on the bottom of the pan.
03 -
Transfer dough to a heat-safe bowl and allow to cool for 5-7 minutes until warm but not hot enough to cook eggs when added.
04 -
Add vanilla, then beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix until dough becomes smooth, glossy, and falls from the spoon in a thick ribbon.
05 -
Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe 1-inch bites onto a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving 1 inch between each. Cut dough with scissors for clean edges.
06 -
Place the tray in the freezer for exactly 10 minutes to help churros maintain their shape during cooking without freezing solid.
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Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
08 -
Place churro bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 8-10 minutes until puffed and golden brown. They should sound hollow when tapped.
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While still warm, brush each churro bite lightly with melted butter, then immediately toss in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat completely.
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Arrange on a serving plate and enjoy while still warm for the most authentic experience. Perfect on their own or with chocolate ganache or dulce de leche for dipping.
# Helpful Tips:
01 -
The dough can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator in a sealed piping bag.
02 -
For chocolate churros, try coating them in cocoa powder mixed with sugar instead of cinnamon.
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These churro bites contain roughly half the calories of traditional deep-fried versions.
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Freshly ground cinnamon makes a significant difference in the final flavor.