Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the coating: 1/2 cup sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Cooking spray (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, two tablespoons of sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the flour all at once using a wooden spoon. Return to low heat and stir constantly for about 1 minute until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Let the dough cool for 5 minutes.
- Once the dough has cooled slightly, add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat vigorously with a wooden spoon or an electric mixer until the egg is fully incorporated and the dough is glossy and smooth. Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. The star tip is essential for creating those ridges that get extra crispy in the air fryer.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Line the air fryer basket with a small piece of parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray. Pipe 3-inch strips of dough into the basket, using scissors to snip the ends. Leave space between each churro for air circulation. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the churros are a deep golden brown and firm to the touch.
- While the churros are cooking, mix your cinnamon and sugar in a shallow bowl. As soon as the churros come out of the air fryer, lightly mist them with a tiny bit of cooking spray or brush with a hint of melted butter, then roll them immediately in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Serve warm with chocolate sauce or caramel for dipping.
- Cook Time: 25 minutes