Healthy Air Fryer Churro Bites are bite-sized treats that bring together the crispy crunch of churros with a lighter, better-for-you twist. Made in the air fryer, these little delights have a golden exterior dusted with cinnamon sugar and a soft, warm center that melts in your mouth. They’re the perfect snack when you want something sweet but don’t want to feel weighed down afterward.
I love making these because they come together quickly and don’t need a ton of oil like traditional churros. Air frying gives them that satisfying crunch that’s just right without the mess of deep-frying. Plus, I feel good knowing I’m enjoying a treat that’s a little healthier but still feels like a special indulgence. I often sprinkle a bit more cinnamon sugar on top as soon as they come out of the fryer for an extra cozy touch.
My favorite way to enjoy these churro bites is with a small bowl of melted chocolate or a thick caramel dip on the side. They’re great for sharing at parties or for a sweet snack that kids and adults both love. Whenever I make them, they disappear fast, and it always feels like I’ve created a little moment of joy that’s simple, tasty, and a bit lighter than your usual fried sweets.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and fiber, making these bites a bit healthier. If you prefer a lighter texture, all-purpose flour works well too.
Sugar: Coconut sugar is my go-to for a subtle caramel taste and lower glycemic index. Brown sugar is a fine substitute. For coating, regular sugar works perfectly to give that classic churro crunch.
Milk: I like using unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free option. You can swap in oat, soy, or regular milk if you prefer.
Spices: Cinnamon is the star here for that warm, classic churro flavor. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice in the coating mix lifts the taste with a cozy hint.
How Do You Get Churro Bites Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting that crispy outside and soft inside can feel tricky, but these tips help:
- Preheat the air fryer so it starts cooking at the right temperature immediately.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—air needs space to circulate for even crisping.
- Shake or gently toss the bites halfway through cooking to brown all sides.
- Toss the bites in cinnamon sugar while still warm so the coating sticks well and adds extra crispness.
Following these steps ensures you get the perfect crunchy, cinnamon-coated churro bites every time with less oil than frying!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I love it because it crisps up the bites without extra oil.
- Mixing bowls – for whisking the batter and cinnamon sugar coating.
- Small cookie scoop or teaspoon – helps portion out the batter evenly.
- Parchment paper or silicone mat – keeps the batter from sticking to the basket.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accuracy with ingredients.
- Small bowl – for cinnamon sugar coating.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Chocolate chips – fold into the batter for melty pockets of chocolate in each bite.
- Pumpkin or apple pie spice – swap with cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
- Use coconut sugar or maple sugar – for different natural sweeteners.
- Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or fruit compote – for extra flavor and moisture.
Healthy Air Fryer Churro Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Batter:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or melted butter (optional)
For The Coating:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: ½ teaspoon nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 7–9 minutes to cook in the air fryer. You might need a few extra minutes if you cook in batches. Overall, expect around 20 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then add the almond milk, vanilla extract, and coconut oil if using. Stir until the batter is thick and just combined.
2. Prepare Your Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Shape and Cook the Bites:
Use a teaspoon or small cookie scoop to drop small dollops of batter onto parchment paper or a silicone mat. Carefully transfer the batter balls into the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each for even cooking. Air fry the bites for 7–9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they puff up and turn golden brown. Cook in batches if necessary.
4. Coat and Serve:
While cooking, mix the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and optional spices in a shallow bowl. As soon as the churro bites come out of the air fryer, toss them gently in the cinnamon sugar mixture so it sticks to the warm bites. Let them cool slightly, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like dark chocolate or caramel.
Can I Use All-Purpose Flour Instead of Whole Wheat Flour?
Absolutely! All-purpose flour will give the churro bites a lighter texture, while whole wheat adds a bit more fiber and nuttiness. Both work well in this recipe.
How Should I Store Leftover Churro Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to crisp them up again.
Can I Make These Churro Bites Vegan?
Yes! Just be sure to use plant-based milk and coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. They’ll still turn out tasty and crispy.
Is It Okay to Use Regular Sugar Instead of Coconut Sugar?
Definitely! Regular granulated sugar works great for both the batter and coating if you don’t have coconut sugar on hand.