Total Time: 20–25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
If you’re craving something sweet, warm, and coated in cinnamon sugar—but don’t want the mess of deep-frying—these Crispy Air Fryer Churro Bites are pure magic. They’re golden, crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and rolled in that irresistible cinnamon-sugar mixture that makes every bite feel like a carnival treat.
With the air fryer doing most of the work, you’ll get that classic churro crunch with just a fraction of the oil. The aroma alone—vanilla pastry puffing up in the air fryer and cinnamon sugar in the bowl—turns your kitchen into a mini dessert shop. Each bite delivers warm, nostalgic comfort, usually around 80–110 calories per piece depending on size.
Perfect for quick desserts, parties, date nights, kids’ treats, or anytime your sweet tooth taps you on the shoulder.
Key Ingredients
Few-ingredient desserts shine when every component pulls its weight:
Refrigerated Biscuit Dough (or Puff Pastry Dough) – The shortcut hero that creates airy, tender churro bites without mixing batter.
Butter (melted) – Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere and adds rich flavor.
Granulated Sugar – Classic sweetness and crisp exterior coating.
Cinnamon – Warm, aromatic spice that defines the churro experience.
Vanilla Extract – Optional, but adds bakery-style aroma.
Nonstick Spray or Light Oil – Ensures even crisping in the air fryer.
Optional but amazing add-ons:
Chocolate Sauce, Dulce de Leche, Caramel Dip – For dunking perfection.
Powdered Sugar – For an extra sweet dusting.
Nutmeg – A tiny pinch for warmth.
How to Make It (Step-by-Step Method)
1. Prep the Dough
Cut refrigerated biscuit dough (or puff pastry) into bite-sized pieces—about 1 to 1½ inches.
Lightly spritz with oil so they crisp evenly.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
Heat to 375°F (190°C) for best results.
3. Air Fry the Bites
- Arrange dough pieces in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
- Air fry 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Bites should be golden, puffed, and crisp on the exterior.
4. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
In a bowl, mix:
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
Brush bites with melted butter, then roll immediately in the cinnamon sugar.
The warmth helps everything adhere beautifully.
5. Optional Finishing Touches
Drizzle with caramel or chocolate, or dip into dulce de leche for pure churro bliss.
Serving Suggestions
- Churro Snack Cups: Serve bites in small paper cones or cups carnival-style.
- Dessert Platter: Add chocolate, caramel, and berry sauces for dipping.
- Ice Cream Pour-Over: Scatter warm churro bites on top of vanilla ice cream.
- Party Skewers: Thread onto toothpicks for cute mini desserts.
- Breakfast Treat: Enjoy alongside coffee, hot chocolate, or cinnamon tea.
Storage + Meal Prep
Refrigerate:
Store leftover churro bites (uncoated or coated) for up to 3 days.
Reheat:
Air fry at 350°F for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezing:
Freeze uncoated bites after cooking for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the air fryer and coat fresh.
Refresh next day:
Warm briefly, brush with butter again, and re-roll in cinnamon sugar for that just-made flavor.
Conclusion
Crispy Air Fryer Churro Bites are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create pure joy. They’re quick, adaptable, and incredibly fun to make—especially when you’re craving something sweet without the fuss. Whether you serve them for a movie night or whip up a batch for guests, these little bites of cinnamon-sugar goodness never disappoint.
Make them your own with dips, flavored sugars, or different doughs—the versatility is endless. Happy air-frying, and don’t forget to save a few for yourself!
