Air Fryer Toasting: Crispy Results?

Air fryers are a convenient alternative to toasters for making crispy toast. They are faster, crispier, and more versatile than traditional toasters. You can make toast in an air fryer by preheating it to a temperature between 370°F and 400°F, buttering your bread, and air-frying it for 3 to 6 minutes, flipping it halfway through. The air fryer's ability to cook thicker slices of bread and larger batches at once, along with its ease of cleaning, makes it a superior option for achieving the perfect golden-brown toast.

How to make toast in an air fryer

Air fryers are a great alternative to toasters, and they can make perfectly crispy toast. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make toast in an air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Firstly, select your favourite type of bread. Any kind of bread will work, including sourdough, baguette, white bread, whole wheat bread, gluten-free bread, and even pre-sliced bread. You can also slice the bread yourself to your desired thickness.

Step 2: Prepare the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to around 390-400°F. The time taken to preheat may vary depending on the model, so refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 3: Butter the Bread (Optional)

For extra flavour and a golden-brown colour, you can butter the bread before placing it in the air fryer. You can use regular butter or vegan butter, and it is recommended to only butter one side of the bread.

Step 4: Place Bread in the Air Fryer

Place the bread in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer and the bread, you may be able to toast 2-4 slices at once, allowing them to overlap slightly.

Step 5: Air Fry the Bread

Air fry the bread for around 3-6 minutes at 390-400°F. Keep an eye on the toast, as the time may vary depending on how crispy you like it and the thickness of the bread. For a softer toast, you can reduce the temperature to 375-390°F and air fry for a little longer.

Step 6: Flip the Bread Halfway Through (Optional)

For even toasting, you can flip the bread halfway through the cooking time. However, if you have buttered the bread, it is best not to flip it to allow the butter to melt into the bread.

Step 7: Add Toppings (Optional)

Once the toast is golden brown, remove it from the air fryer and add your favourite toppings. Some popular options include avocado, nut butter, jam, cinnamon and sugar, cream cheese, or garlic powder for a simple garlic toast.

Tips:

• There is no need to grease the air fryer basket as the bread is unlikely to stick.
• Toasting times may vary depending on the type of bread and your desired level of crispiness, so it is recommended to check the toast early and adjust the timing as needed.
• Air fryer toast is best served fresh, so only toast as many slices as you need.

Enjoy your perfectly crispy air-fried toast!

The best toppings for air fryer toast

Air fryer toast is a quick, easy, and convenient way to make toast with a great texture. It's a simple process that only requires one ingredient and one appliance. You can use any kind of sliced bread, and cook it according to your preference.

Smashed Avocado

Avocado on toast is a classic and a great option for a quick and easy lunch. You can add extra protein with a poached egg on top.

Banana and Almond Butter

This is a great option for kids or a quick snack. You can also try making your own almond or peanut butter.

Jam

Jam on toast is a childhood favourite. For a healthier version, try using a strawberry puree instead.

Nutella

For chocolate lovers, Nutella is always a good choice. You can also make your own healthy version.

Eggs

For a protein-packed breakfast, try eggs on toast. Scrambled, boiled, or fried eggs can be a delicious and nutritious addition to your air fryer toast.

Nut Butter

Peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter of your choice can be a great topping. You can also try making your own homemade nut butter.

Cinnamon and Sugar

A simple yet delicious combination is a spread of butter topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar.

Cream Cheese

Go sweet with a fruit-topped cream cheese or savoury with garden veggie or chive cream cheese.

Garlic

For a simple garlic toast, spread some butter on one side of the bread and sprinkle it with garlic powder or minced garlic before air frying.

So, there you have it! These are just a few ideas to make your air fryer toast even more enjoyable. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different toppings to find your favourite combinations.

How to prevent your toast from flying around in the air fryer

To prevent your toast from flying around in the air fryer, you can use toothpicks or a small baking rack to weigh down the toast as it cooks. If you are using an oven-style air fryer, place the bread in between trays or on the lower rack.

Additionally, you can use an air fryer rack to weigh down the toast and prevent it from flying around. This problem is not very common, so you may not need to take any extra precautions.

Why you should choose an air fryer over a toaster

If you're looking for the perfect, crispy slice of toast, you may want to consider using an air fryer instead of a toaster. Here are some reasons why an air fryer might be a better choice:

• Ease of Use: Many people find that making toast in an air fryer is even easier than using a traditional toaster. You simply need to set your air fryer to the desired temperature, place the bread inside, and let it cook for a few minutes. There's no need to worry about bread flying around, as you might with a toaster, and you can easily check on the toast's progress.
• Perfect Toasting: Air fryers are known for their ability to cook food evenly, resulting in a crispy texture that is ideal for toast. With an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect golden-brown colour and crispy texture all around your toast. No more dealing with unevenly cooked toast or worrying about burning your breakfast!
• Versatility: Air fryers offer much more versatility than a standard toaster. You can toast multiple slices at once, depending on the size of your air fryer, and they can accommodate thicker slices of bread. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough, baguette, white bread, or even gluten-free options.
• Customisability: With an air fryer, you have greater control over the toasting process. You can adjust the temperature and timing to suit your preferences and the type of bread you're using. This means you can have your toast just the way you like it—whether you prefer it slightly softer or extra crispy.
• Batch Cooking: If you need to make a large batch of toast, an air fryer can be a real timesaver. Depending on the model, you can toast multiple slices at once, and there's no need to worry about the toaster being occupied by others in your household. It's also handy if you're cooking for a crowd or want to make several slices for yourself.
• Multifunctionality: Air fryers are incredibly versatile appliances. In addition to making perfect toast, they can be used for a wide range of cooking tasks, such as crisping up bacon, baking, roasting vegetables, or even making desserts. This means you can save money, counter space, and time by using one appliance for multiple tasks.

So, if you're tired of unevenly toasted bread and want a more versatile and customisable option, an air fryer might just be the perfect addition to your kitchen. Say goodbye to your old toaster and hello to perfectly crispy toast, every time!

How to store air fryer toast

To store air fryer toast, it is important to note that toasted bread is best enjoyed fresh. If you have any leftover slices, you can store them for later, but the texture and taste may not be as optimal as when freshly made. Here are some tips to help you store air fryer toast:

Storing at Room Temperature

• Allow the toast to cool down completely before storing it. Storing hot bread can cause condensation, making the toast soggy and less crispy.
• Use airtight containers, such as bread boxes or resealable plastic bags, to store the toast. This helps prevent the bread from drying out and keeps it fresh.
• If you prefer a more eco-friendly option, you can use paper bags. Place the slices in the bag and roll down the top to seal it loosely, allowing some airflow while protecting the toast from excess moisture.
• Avoid leaving the toast exposed to air, as it can quickly become stale.
• Separate the slices before storing them to prevent sticking. You can use parchment or wax paper between the slices.
• Toasted bread is best consumed within 1-2 days of toasting for optimal freshness.

Storing in the Fridge

While storing toast in the fridge is not recommended as it can dry out the bread, you may need to do so if you live in a hot or humid climate to prevent mold growth. Here are some tips for fridge storage:

• Place the toast in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods.
• Consume the toast within 2-3 days to ensure freshness.
• Avoid storing the toast near strong-smelling foods like onions or garlic, as the toast can absorb these odors.

Freezing the Toast

If you have a large batch of toast or want to store it for a more extended period, freezing is a great option. Here's how to do it:

• Wait for the toast to cool down completely before freezing.
• Wrap each slice of toast tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air pockets and freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped slices in an airtight container or resealable freezer bag.
• Label the package with the date, and consume the frozen toast within three months for the best quality.
• When ready to eat, thaw the toast at room temperature or pop it into the toaster for a quick refresh.

Frequently asked questions