These air-fried churros are a healthier twist on the classic treat, paired with a luscious cinnamon-date caramel sauce. The churros are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated in a delightful cinnamon-sugar mixture. The caramel sauce adds a naturally sweet and creamy touch, making this dessert irresistible. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt!
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In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt.
Bring to a slight simmer, then turn off the heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract and the flour until a dough forms. Keep stirring until it pulls away from the sides
Let the dough cool for 5 minutes, then mix in the egg until smooth.
Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe strips onto a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 15 minutes.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Place churros in a single layer, lightly spray with oil, and air-fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Adjust times as needed until golden brown.
Mix sugar and cinnamon in a flat dish. Brush churros with melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Blend dates, warm milk, cinnamon, vanilla, and sea salt until smooth and creamy. If too thick, add more milk gradually.
Make sure the dough is not too hot when adding the egg, as it could cook the egg.
Freezing the piped churros helps them hold their shape during air frying.
Adjust the air fryer time based on the size of your churros and the specific model of your air fryer.
For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use almond milk for the caramel sauce.
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, but you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends if needed. The texture may vary slightly.
Can I bake the churros instead of air frying?
Yes, you can bake the churros in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I store leftover churros?
Store leftover churros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and pipe the churros onto a tray. Freeze them and air fry when ready to serve.
Can I use a different sweetener for the caramel sauce?
Yes, you can experiment with other natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
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