How to Air Fry Churros

Combine 1 cup water, 1/2 cup butter, 1 tablespoon sugar, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup flour until a dough forms. Beat in 2 eggs one at a time. Pipe through a star-tipped piping bag or ziplock bag with the corner cut into 4-inch strips onto parchment.

Freeze piped churros for 15 minutes before air frying — this firms them up and prevents them from sticking to the basket or falling apart when moved. Spray the basket and the churros with cooking spray. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, turning carefully once at 5 minutes with tongs. They are done when deep golden and firm to the touch.

Prepare the coating before the churros come out: mix 1/2 cup sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a wide bowl. As soon as the churros come out of the air fryer, while still hot, drop them one by one into the cinnamon sugar and roll to coat. The heat makes the sugar adhere perfectly.

A classic churro dipping sauce is warm melted chocolate. Heat 1/2 cup heavy cream until just simmering, pour over 4 oz of chopped dark chocolate, let sit 1 minute, then stir until smooth. For a Mexican-chocolate variation, add a pinch of cinnamon and a drop of vanilla.

What temperature for air fryer churros?

Air fry churros at 375°F (190°C). This temperature cooks the choux-like dough through while forming a golden, slightly crispy exterior. Too high a temperature sets the outside before the inside is done; too low leaves them pale and soft.

How long to cook churros in air fryer?

Air fryer churros take 10–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Turn them at the halfway point for even browning on all sides. They are done when deep golden brown all over. Let them cool slightly before rolling in cinnamon sugar — they hold the coating better when not piping hot.

Tips for air fryer churros?

Pipe the churro dough onto a piece of parchment paper first, then refrigerate for 15 minutes before cooking — this firms the dough and helps them hold their shape. Roll immediately in cinnamon sugar while still warm. Serve with chocolate dipping sauce.