Healthy Air Fryer Churro Bites
Deliciously crispy, tender churro bites made healthier in the air fryer, dusted with cinnamon sugar for a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup Whole wheat pastry flour (or all-purpose flour) For a healthier texture.
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder Helps the bites puff slightly.
- 1/4 teaspoon Fine sea salt Balances the sweetness.
- 1 large Egg Binds and gives tenderness.
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full fat or 2%) Adds moisture and a slight tang; swap sour cream if you like.
- 2 tablespoons Honey or maple syrup Natural sweetener; use erythritol or coconut sugar for lower sugar.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Flavor anchor.
- 1 tablespoon Melted coconut oil or neutral oil Helps the exterior crisp; a quick spray of oil also works.
- 1/2 cup Applesauce (unsweetened) Optional for extra moisture and fewer calories.
Coating
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar (or coconut sugar) Mixed with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon.
Other
- as needed Cooking spray For the air fryer basket.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and sea salt until evenly combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg with the Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla, melted oil, and applesauce (if using) until smooth.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry until a soft dough forms. If it's sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls, about 18-22 bites.
Cooking
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the dough balls in a single layer.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, then gently turn each bite and cook another 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
- While still warm, toss the bites in a bowl with the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, or keep warm in a low oven (170°F / 75°C) for up to 10 minutes.
Notes
Use gluten-free flour blend 1:1 for gluten-free guests. For dairy-free, choose coconut yogurt and omit the egg.