Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros bring a delightful twist to a classic favorite. These warm, crispy treats are infused with the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices, making them perfect for any autumn gathering or a special family dessert.
Why Make This Recipe
Churros are a beloved snack in many cultures, serving as a sweet treat that’s often enjoyed at fairs or carnivals. With the advent of the air fryer, creating this traditionally fried dessert has never been easier or healthier. By using an air fryer, you reduce the amount of oil used while still achieving that crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. Plus, incorporating pumpkin not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional benefits. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the cozy flavors of fall while treating yourself and your family to something special.
How to Make Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros
Making Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros is a straightforward process that will impress your friends and family. Follow these easy steps to whip up a batch of these delectable pastries!
Ingredients:
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon clove
- ½ teaspoon ginger
- ¼ cup butter, room temperature
- 2 oz shortening
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 to 5 cups powdered sugar
Directions:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water, butter, pumpkin puree, and salt to a boil, stirring to combine.
- Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and immediately mix in the flour until the mixture becomes very thick.
- Working quickly, add in the egg and mix vigorously until fully combined. It’s crucial to work quickly to prevent the egg from scrambling—use a sturdy whisk to help blend the mixture together.
- Transfer the churro batter into a pastry bag fitted with a large star or round tip. If you don’t have a pastry bag, a zip-top bag with one corner snipped off works well too.
- Preheat your air fryer at 375°F for about 5-10 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil or line it with parchment paper. Pipe the churro batter into your desired shapes and sizes.
- Air fry the churros for approximately 15-20 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on the size and shape, so keep an eye on the first batch to ensure they don’t overcook.
- While the churros are cooking, prepare the sugar mixture by combining sugar and spices in a bowl or on a plate.
- After air frying, toss the hot churros in the sugar mixture until well coated. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture, or store them in an airtight container for later.
Pro Tips for Success with Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros
- Beat the Egg Well: When mixing in the egg, make sure to beat it vigorously to avoid any "eggy" flavor in your churros.
- Watch the Cooking Time: The size of your churros will affect cooking time, so keep an eye on them after the 15-minute mark.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your butter, cream cheese, and shortening to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Experiment with Shapes: Don’t hesitate to pipe your churros into different shapes or sizes for a fun presentation.
- Serve Fresh: These churros taste best when served right after coating in the sugar mixture. The warm churros and cold sugar create a perfect contrast.
Flavor Variations for Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the churros for a rich, decadent treat.
- Maple Glaze: Create a maple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with maple syrup for a deliciously sweet topping.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) to the sugar mixture for added crunch and flavor.
- Spiced Sugar: Enhance your sugar mixture with other spices such as nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
- Stuffed Churros: Experiment with filling churros with caramel, chocolate, or cream cheese for an extra indulgent dessert.
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros
Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros are perfect for a variety of occasions! Serve them warm with a side of hot chocolate or coffee for a delightful dessert experience. You can also present them as part of a fall-themed dessert table alongside other pumpkin treats like pumpkin pie or pumpkin spice cupcakes. For a fun twist, pair the churros with vanilla ice cream for a delectable sundae.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
To keep your Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the churros. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, air fry them at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
FAQ About Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros
Can I make these churros gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a brand that is suitable for baking to achieve the best texture.
How do I know when the churros are done cooking?
Keep a close eye on your churros as they cook. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can check them after 15 minutes, and if they need more time, continue cooking in 2-minute increments.
Can I use a different type of puree?
Absolutely! While pumpkin gives these churros their distinct flavor, you can try using butternut squash puree or sweet potato puree for a different twist.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the churro dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours before piping and cooking. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before air frying for the best results.
What should I do if my churro batter is too runny?
If your batter seems too runny, you can add a small amount of flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a thicker consistency. The dough should be thick enough to hold its shape when piped.
Are these churros suitable for kids?
Definitely! They are a fun and tasty treat for kids to enjoy. Just keep in mind that they can be hot when straight out of the air fryer, so ensure they cool for a few minutes before serving.
Final Thoughts
Making Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall and treat your loved ones to something special. With their warm, fluffy interiors and crisp exterior, these churros are sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, the convenience of the air fryer allows you to indulge without the guilt of deep frying. So gather your ingredients, get your family involved in the kitchen, and enjoy this sweet seasonal treat together!
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Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Air Fryer Pumpkin Churros bring a delightful twist to a classic favorite with warm, crispy treats infused with pumpkin and spices.
Ingredients
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon clove
- ½ teaspoon ginger
- ¼ cup butter, room temperature
- 2 oz shortening
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 to 5 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water, butter, pumpkin puree, and salt to a boil, stirring to combine.
- Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and immediately mix in the flour until very thick.
- Working quickly, add in the egg and mix vigorously until fully combined.
- Transfer the churro batter into a pastry bag fitted with a large star or round tip.
- Preheat your air fryer at 375°F for about 5-10 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil or line it with parchment paper. Pipe the churro batter into desired shapes.
- Air fry the churros for approximately 15-20 minutes, keeping an eye on the first batch.
- While the churros are cooking, prepare the sugar mixture by combining sugar and spices.
- After air frying, toss the hot churros in the sugar mixture until well coated. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
For best flavor, serve churros immediately after coating in sugar mixture. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American