Begin by boiling 1 cup of water, 1/3 cup of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the butter is melted, then reduce the heat to low. Gradually add 1 cup of plain flour, stirring until the mixture forms a smooth dough that pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 2–3 minutes.

Transfer the hot dough into a mixing bowl and allow it to cool for 4-5 minutes. Once slightly cooled, incorporate 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence into the dough, mixing thoroughly until smooth.

Prepare a piping bag fitted with a large star tip and spoon the churro dough into it. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) while preparing the basket.

Carefully pipe bite-sized churro shapes into the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Brush the tops with melted butter and cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

While your churro bites are cooking, prepare a coating by mixing 1 cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Toss the warm churros in the cinnamon-sugar mixture after cooking.

Serve your churro bites warm, on their own or with delicious dips such as chocolate syrup, honey, or Nutella.