Air Fryer Toasts: A Quick Breakfast Hack

Air fryers are a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for toasting bread. While some people prefer using a traditional toaster or oven, air fryers offer a convenient and quick way to make toast with a crispy, golden-brown colour. The circulating hot air in the air fryer cooks the bread evenly, and it only takes a few minutes to get perfect toast. However, one common issue with using an air fryer for toasting is that the bread can sometimes fly around inside the fryer, but this can be prevented by weighing it down with a wire rack or trivet.

How to make toast in an air fryer

Making toast in an air fryer is a straightforward process and can even be easier than using a toaster. It usually takes less than 5 minutes from start to finish. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make toast in an air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer

First, clean the air fryer to ensure there is no residual grease or food particles left in it. This is important as it can affect the flavour of the toast. Next, check how many slices of bread fit in the air fryer basket or on the rack. Typically, an air fryer basket holds up to 4 slices of bread, while a metal rack can hold 5 or 6 slices. Knowing this will help you determine how many batches you need to make.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to around 350°F to 400°F for about 2 to 5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and is especially important when toasting bread.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread

Place your desired number of bread slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the rack. Make sure the slices do not overlap to ensure even toasting and air circulation. You can use any type of bread, such as white, whole wheat, sourdough, gluten-free, or even homemade bread. Thicker slices of bread, such as challah, Texas toast, or sourdough, tend to toast better in an air fryer as they are less likely to burn.

You can also apply butter or cooking spray to the bread before toasting if you want a crispier finish or to prevent the bread from drying out.

Step 4: Air Fry the Bread

Air fry the bread for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. For more even browning, especially in basket-style air fryers, flip the slices halfway through the cooking time. Keep a close eye on the bread to prevent over-browning and adjust the timing as needed.

Step 5: Serve the Toast

Once the toast is golden and crispy, remove it from the air fryer and serve with your favourite toppings.

Tips and Troubleshooting:

• Weigh down the bread with a wire rack or trivet to prevent it from flying around in the air fryer.
• Experiment with different temperature settings and types of bread to find your preferred level of doneness.
• If your toast is drying out, try using a lower temperature setting or buttering the bread before toasting.
• For crispy Texas toast or French toast, consider browning the bread in a toaster oven first for a couple of minutes.

Popular Toppings for Air Fryer Toast:

• Nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter)
• Avocado spread
• Butter and cinnamon sugar
• Cream cheese (plain, chive, garden veggie)
• Honey and walnuts
• Nutella with sliced strawberries
• Cream cheese with chives or smoked salmon

Tips for making toast in an air fryer

Air fryers are a great alternative to toasters and ovens for making toast. Here are some tips to help you make the perfect toast in an air fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F-400°F and preheat for 2-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and better results.
• Prepare the bread: Place 1-4 slices of bread in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the rack. Avoid overlapping slices to ensure even toasting. Thicker slices of bread, such as challah, Texas toast, or sourdough, work better as they are less likely to burn.
• Butter the bread (optional): Adding butter will enhance the flavor and give your toast a golden-brown color. You can also experiment with different toppings, such as garlic powder or cinnamon sugar.
• Air fry: Depending on your air fryer model and the type of bread, cook the bread for 3-5 minutes. Flip the slices halfway through for more even browning, especially if using a basket-style air fryer.
• Check for doneness: If you prefer crispier toast, add an additional 1-2 minutes of cooking time. Keep a close eye on the bread to prevent over-browning.
• Serve: Remove the toast from the air fryer and serve with your favorite toppings, such as butter, peanut butter, or avocado.

Some additional tips:

• There is no need to grease the air fryer basket as bread is unlikely to stick.
• Keep an eye on the bread while it is cooking, especially if using a basket-style air fryer, to ensure it doesn't fly around and get stuck in the heating element.
• If using thinner slices of bread, you may want to spray them with cooking oil or butter before toasting to prevent them from drying out.
• If your bread is very thin and light, you may need to weigh it down to prevent it from flying around. You can use a wire rack, a trivet, or toothpicks to connect multiple slices.

How long to toast bread in an air fryer

Yes, you can put toast in an air fryer! It's a great alternative to using a toaster, and you can even add toppings to your toast and put it back in the air fryer to warm them up.

The time it takes to toast bread in an air fryer depends on how well done you like your toast, and the type of air fryer you have. It also depends on the type of bread you are using. For example, thicker slices of bread may need a lower temperature but for a longer duration, whereas thinner slices may need a higher temperature for a shorter time.

As a general rule, toasting bread in an air fryer takes between 3 and 5 minutes at 390-400°F (180°C). You may need to experiment with the temperature and timing to find your perfect degree of toastiness!

Tips for making toast in an air fryer

• You don't need to grease the air fryer basket or spray it with oil before adding the bread.
• If you want to add butter, it's best to do so before putting the bread in the air fryer.
• Place the bread in a single layer in the basket, but the slices can overlap slightly if needed.
• For even browning, flip the bread halfway through the cooking time.
• Keep an eye on your toast to make sure it doesn't burn.
• If you are making toast for a sandwich, try buttering only one side and not flipping the bread. This will give you a crispy outside and a softer inside.
• You can make as many slices as will fit in a single layer in the basket.

Storing toast

It's best to eat your toast straight away, but if you do have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for a day or two. To serve again, air fry for 1-2 minutes to warm through.

Best types of bread for air fryer toast

Air fryers are a great alternative to toasters and can cook toast faster and more evenly. They can also toast multiple slices at once, making them ideal for larger groups.

While any type of bread can be toasted in an air fryer, here are some of the best options:

• Sourdough: This bread has a tangy flavour and a chewy texture, making it a popular choice for toast.
• French or Italian Bread: These breads have a crispy crust and a soft interior, perfect for a crunchy yet fluffy toast.
• White or Wheat Bread: Basic white or wheat bread is a versatile option for toast and can be topped with sweet or savoury toppings.
• Rye Bread: Rye bread has a distinct flavour and is often denser than other types of bread, making it a hearty choice for toast.
• Brioche: Brioche bread is slightly sweet and has a rich, buttery flavour, making it a delicious option for French toast or regular toast.
• Baguette: Sliced baguette makes for a great crunchy toast, especially when topped with butter or jam.
• Gluten-Free Bread: Air fryers are also suitable for gluten-free bread, allowing those with gluten intolerance to enjoy perfectly toasted bread.

When toasting bread in an air fryer, it is recommended to cook at around 390-400°F for 3-5 minutes, depending on the desired level of browning and the thickness of the bread. It is also a good idea to flip the bread halfway through for even toasting.

Air fryer toast toppings

Now that you've made your toast in the air fryer, it's time to top it! Here are some ideas for delicious toppings to take your toast to the next level:

Butter

A classic choice, butter adds flavour and gives the toast a golden-brown colour. You can use regular butter or vegan butter, and it's best to only butter one side of the toast without flipping it.

Nut Butter

If you're looking for something a little different, try peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter, or Nutella. These spreads add a delicious creaminess to your toast.

Avocado

Avocado toast is a popular choice for a reason! Keep it simple with just avocado, salt, and pepper, or add some sliced cherry tomatoes, sautéed greens, or other toppings.

Jam

For a sweet and fruity option, top your toast with your favourite jam or preserve.

Cinnamon and Sugar

This topping is a simple yet delicious combination. Spread some butter on your toast and sprinkle on a mix of cinnamon and sugar.

Cream Cheese

Go sweet or savoury with cream cheese! Try topping your toast with a sweeter variety of cream cheese and sliced fruit, or go savoury with garden veggie or chive cream cheese.

Garlic

For a simple garlic toast, spread some butter on your toast and sprinkle on some garlic powder or minced garlic before air frying. Don't flip the bread!

Peanut Butter and Banana

This classic combination is a favourite for a reason. Try it with some cream cheese and everything bagel seasoning for an extra twist.

Butter, Salt, and Smoked Salmon

A savoury and indulgent option, this combination is perfect for a fancy breakfast or brunch.

Avocado, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

A more sophisticated take on avocado toast, this combination is sure to impress. Add some sliced or mashed avocado, a sprinkle of feta cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Frequently asked questions