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Crispy Air Fryer Churro Bites

Churros, those delightful, deep-fried dough pastries coated in sugar and cinnamon, have long been a beloved treat across Spain and Latin America. However, in the modern kitchen, the air fryer has transformed this traditional recipe into a healthier yet equally delicious option. Enter crispy air fryer churro bites—bite-sized pieces of sweet indulgence that will impress your friends and family without the guilt.

The Allure of Air Frying

Using an air fryer significantly cuts down on the amount of oil typically required for deep frying, making it a fantastic alternative for health-conscious individuals looking to satisfy their sweet tooth. The warm, circulating air achieves a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender, replicating the classic churro experience with considerably less fat.

Ingredients

To create these scrumptious churro bites, you’ll need:

For the dough:

• 1 cup (125g) plain flour
• 1 tablespoon (15g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 3 tablespoons (45g) unsalted butter

For the coating:

• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• A light spray of cooking oil or melted butter (for crispiness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   Begin by combining the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the water, allowing it to come to a gentle boil. Once boiling, remove it from the heat and quickly stir in the dry ingredients until a smooth dough forms. Let the dough cool for a few minutes.

2. Shape the Churro Bites:
   Once the dough is cool enough to handle, transfer it to a piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle. Pipe small bite-sized pieces onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Aim for about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in length.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.

4. Cook the Churro Bites:
   Lightly spray the churro bites with cooking oil or brush them with melted butter for extra crispiness. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.

5. Coat with Sugar and Cinnamon:
   While the churro bites are cooking, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Once they are done, remove them from the air fryer and immediately toss them in the sugar-cinnamon mixture until well coated.

6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Churro bites are best served warm. Pair them with a rich chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delightful contrast of temperatures.

Tips for Success

• No Piping Bag?: If you don’t have a piping bag, a zip-lock bag with one corner snipped off can work just as effectively.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure enough space in the air fryer for air circulation to achieve that desirable crispiness.
• Experiment with Flavours: For a twist, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract or even a pinch of nutmeg to the dough.

Conclusion

Crispy air fryer churro bites are a fantastic fusion of traditional flavour and modern convenience. Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, they make for the perfect dessert or indulgent snack. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to something sweet, these churro bites will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. So grab your air fryer and get ready to indulge in this delightful twist on a timeless classic!

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