Air Fryer Toasted Bread: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Making toast in an air fryer is a simple and convenient way to achieve the perfect, golden-brown crunch. It's a great option for those who don't own a toaster or are looking to declutter their kitchen countertops. With an air fryer, you can make toast for a crowd, as it can accommodate up to four slices at once, depending on the model. The process is straightforward: simply set your air fryer to 390-400°F, place the bread slices inside, and let them cook for 3-6 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. You can also experiment with toppings, such as butter, jam, or even smashed avocado, to elevate your toast. So, if you're looking for a new way to make this breakfast staple, give your air fryer a try!

Choosing the right bread

The great thing about making toast in an air fryer is that you can use any bread you like. Whether it's white, brown, sourdough, Italian, French, gluten-free, or even homemade, the air fryer will deliver that perfect, golden crispness.

If you're making avocado toast, a slightly thicker slice of bread works best. You can either buy pre-sliced bread or cut it yourself to your desired thickness.

For a softer toast, you can lower the temperature to somewhere between 375°F and 390°F. For a darker toast, increase the temperature to 400°F and cook for an additional 30 seconds to one minute.

If you're making a sandwich, you might want to butter only one side of the bread and avoid flipping it halfway through. This will give you a crispy outside and a softer inside, perfect for a toasty sandwich.

You can also experiment with different types of bread to find your perfect degree of toast. So, go ahead and grab your favourite loaf and get ready to enjoy the perfect slice of toast, made just the way you like it!

Adding toppings

Once you've made your toast in the air fryer, it's time to add your toppings. The great thing about toast is that it's versatile and can be dressed up or down. Here are some topping ideas to get you started:

Butter and Spreads

A thin spread of butter can add flavour and give your toast a delicious golden-brown colour. You can also try other spreads like nut butter, cream cheese, or homemade healthy Nutella. For a sweeter option, try cinnamon and sugar, or honey.

Fruits and Jams

Add some smashed avocado and keep it simple with salt and pepper, or add sliced cherry tomatoes, sautéed greens, or a poached egg on top for a more substantial meal. You can also add sliced banana and almond butter, or go for a classic with some jam. If you want a healthier option, try a fruit puree.

Eggs

For a protein-packed breakfast, eggs on toast are a great option. Try scrambled eggs, a poached egg, or even a fried egg on top of your avocado toast.

Savoury Options

For a savoury breakfast or snack, add some smashed eggs, arugula, Canadian bacon or ham, and cheese. You can also make a simple garlic toast by spreading butter on the bread and sprinkling it with garlic powder or minced garlic before air frying. If you're feeling indulgent, try an air fryer garlic bread.

Sweet Treats

For a sweet breakfast or dessert, try spreading some Nutella on your toast, or make a strawberry puree to satisfy your sweet tooth.

The options for toppings are endless, so feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations. Enjoy your air fryer toast!

Air fryer settings

To make toast in an air fryer, you will need to adjust the settings on your air fryer to ensure your bread is toasted to your liking.

First, select the temperature. Most sources recommend a temperature setting between 375 and 400° Fahrenheit. However, if you prefer your toast on the softer side, you can go for a lower temperature of 375°F, and if you like your toast darker, you can increase the temperature to 400°F.

Next, you will need to decide on the cooking time. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your bread and how crispy you like your toast. A good starting point is to air fry your bread for around 3-4 minutes at 400°F. If you are air frying at a lower temperature, you may need to increase the cooking time, and vice versa. It is recommended to keep an eye on your toast and adjust the cooking time as needed, as different air fryers and bread types will affect the outcome.

If you are using butter, it is best to add it before placing the bread in the air fryer. This will allow the butter to melt into the bread as it toasts. You can also add toppings after air frying, such as nut butter, jam, or cinnamon and sugar.

Finally, consider whether you want to flip your bread halfway through the cooking time. Flipping the bread will ensure that both sides are toasted evenly. However, if you are making a sandwich and want the inside of the bread to be softer, you may choose not to flip the bread.

Avoiding toast flying around

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

It's also important not to overcrowd the basket with bread. If you are toasting multiple slices, make sure they are placed in a single layer with space between them.

Additionally, stay close by the first time you toast a new type of bread to ensure it doesn't get so light that it starts flying around. If you hear funny noises, like something blowing around in the basket, stop the air fryer.

Storing toast

Air Exposure

Avoid leaving your toast exposed to air, as this can lead to moisture loss and staleness. Store your toast in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to create a barrier against air exposure. Bread boxes are also a great option, as they regulate moisture and air circulation while keeping your toast fresh.

Temperature

The ideal temperature for storing toast is room temperature. Refrigeration can cause the bread to dry out faster, but if you live in a hot or humid climate, refrigeration may be necessary to prevent mould growth.

Moisture

Striking a balance with moisture is crucial. Too much moisture will make the bread soggy, while a very dry environment can make it hard and stale. To maintain the optimal texture, find a cool, dry place to store your toast.

Odour Protection

Toasted bread can easily absorb odours from its surroundings, so keep it away from strong-smelling substances like onions or garlic. Use a separate container or bread box to isolate your toast and prevent unwanted odours from seeping in.

Slice Separation

Before storing, separate the slices by placing a small piece of parchment or wax paper between each slice. This prevents the slices from sticking together and makes it easier to grab individual slices without disturbing the rest.

Storage Time

Toasted bread is best enjoyed fresh, ideally within 1-2 days of toasting. For longer storage, consider freezing your toast. Wrap cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and label them with the date. Frozen toast can be stored for up to three months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Leaving bread exposed to air, which can lead to staleness.
• Storing toast in the fridge, as this can dry out the bread.
• Storing toast near strong odours, which can affect its flavour.
• Not slicing the bread before storing, making it difficult to retrieve individual slices.
• Using improper freezing techniques, such as not wrapping tightly or not labelling with the date.
• Storing toast in humid environments, which can make it soggy.
• Not checking for mould before consumption.
• Stacking slices of toast without cooling them first, causing them to stick together.
• Not using freshly sliced bread, which affects the toasting quality.
• Not consuming within a reasonable timeframe, as even stored toast is best eaten fresh.

Frequently asked questions