Discover the Perfect Sweet Treat
If you’re on the hunt for a delightful dessert that combines the best of churros and doughnuts, look no further! These crispy Air Fryer Churro Doughnut Holes are a game-changer. Imagine bite-sized treats that are wonderfully crispy on the outside, fluffy and soft on the inside, and coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture. They offer all the indulgence of traditional fried treats without the added oil and guilt. Perfect for any occasion—from family movie nights to festive gatherings—these delightful morsels are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, these doughnut holes come together in a flash.
- Healthier Option: Using an air fryer means you can enjoy these treats with less oil, making them a lighter choice compared to traditional frying.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the flavors or toppings to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Sharing: These bite-sized treats are great for gatherings, ensuring there’s enough for everyone to enjoy.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love these sweet treats, making them a hit for family fun or playdates.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Doughnut Holes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until well mixed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Shape the Doughnut Holes: Using your hands, take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Doughnut Holes: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the doughnut holes in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar: While the doughnut holes are cooking, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Coat the Doughnut Holes: Once cooked, remove the doughnut holes from the air fryer and immediately roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the doughnut holes to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!
Serving Suggestions
These Air Fryer Churro Doughnut Holes are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience even further. Consider serving them with:
- Chocolate Sauce: A rich, warm chocolate sauce for dipping adds an extra layer of indulgence.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream can complement the sweetness of the churro doughnut holes.
- Fruit Compote: A berry compote or caramelized apples can provide a fruity contrast to the cinnamon sugar coating.
- Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, serve these warm doughnut holes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Air Fryer Churro Doughnut Holes turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough doughnut holes.
- Temperature Check: Make sure your air fryer is preheated properly to achieve that crispy exterior.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add vanilla extract or almond extract to the dough for a hint of extra flavor.
Variations
There are plenty of ways to customize these delightful treats! Here are some fun variations to try:
- Chocolate Churro Doughnut Holes: Add cocoa powder to the dough mixture for a chocolatey twist!
- Nutty Flavor: Incorporate finely chopped nuts into the dough for added texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.