Air Fryer Oven: Perfect Toast, Every Time

Making toast in an air fryer is an easy and effective way to achieve the perfect slice of toast. It is even easier than using a toaster and results in toast that is crispy and golden every time. To make toast in a power air fryer oven, simply set the temperature to between 375 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit, place the bread inside, and cook for 3 to 6 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispness.

Choosing the right bread

When making toast in an air fryer, you can use any type of bread. Here are some tips to help you choose the right bread for your needs:

• Bread Type: The type of bread you choose depends on your personal preference and the desired outcome. Common options include sourdough, French bread, Italian bread, white bread, wheat bread, brioche bread, gluten-free bread, and Texas Toast.
• Slice Thickness: If you are slicing the bread yourself, consider cutting it slightly thicker than store-bought bread, especially if you plan to make avocado toast or other toppings. Thicker slices may require a lower temperature and longer cooking time to ensure even toasting.
• Bread Freshness: Fresh, frozen, or stale bread can be used in an air fryer. However, frozen bread may require adjustments in temperature and cooking time. Experiment to find the ideal settings for your desired outcome.
• Dietary Restrictions: Air fryer toasting is versatile and can accommodate various dietary needs. For gluten-free or low-carb/keto diets, use gluten-free or keto bread. For dairy-free options, consider toppings such as olive oil, coconut oil, vegan butter, or ghee.
• Toppings: Consider the toppings you plan to use and how they will complement your bread choice. For example, avocado toast works well with thicker slices, while certain toppings like Nutella or peanut butter can be added to any type of bread.
• Slice Size: If you have a basket-style air fryer, the size of the bread slices is important to ensure they fit properly without overlapping too much. You may need to adjust the number of slices or their arrangement for optimal toasting.

Remember, the beauty of using an air fryer for toast is its versatility. Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of bread and toppings to find your perfect combination.

Using butter

If you want to add butter, start by spreading a thin layer on one or both sides of your bread slices. Then, place the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Set the temperature to between 375 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit and the cook time for 3 to 6 minutes, depending on how dark you like your toast. Keep an eye on the bread to prevent burning, as air fryers tend to cook quickly. If you're using butter, you may want to flip the bread halfway through the cooking time to ensure even toasting on both sides.

Once the bread reaches your desired level of crispiness and colour, remove it from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Serve the toast immediately while it's still warm and crispy, and feel free to add more butter on top!

Avoiding flying toast

When making toast in an air fryer, it's important to take some precautions to avoid the bread from flying around in the air fryer basket. Here are some tips to prevent this from happening:

• Use toothpicks: Stick toothpicks into the crusty bottom of one slice of bread, then slide the other half into another slice to tether them together. This adds weight to the bread and prevents it from flying around.
• Metal rack or trivet: Place a small metal rack or trivet on top of the toast to weigh it down as it air fries.
• Baking rack: If you have an oven-style air fryer, place the bread on the lower rack or in between the trays to prevent it from flying into the fan.
• Wire rack: Lay a wire rack on top of the bread to hold it down and prevent it from flying around.
• Avoid overcrowding: Make sure you aren't completely blocking airflow in the air fryer. Give the toast enough space to cook evenly without being blown around.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your perfectly toasted bread without worrying about it flying away in your air fryer.

Getting the right temperature

The temperature you choose will also depend on the type of bread you are using. Different types of bread, such as sourdough, white bread, wheat bread, or gluten-free bread, may require slight adjustments in temperature and cooking time. Thicker slices of bread may benefit from a lower temperature setting and a longer cooking time, while thinner slices can be cooked at a higher temperature for a shorter duration.

Additionally, the desired level of browning can be achieved by adjusting the cooking time. For a lighter toast, you may want to reduce the cooking time, while a darker, crispier toast can be achieved by increasing the time in the air fryer. It is always a good idea to keep a close eye on your toast as it cooks and adjust the temperature or time as needed to prevent overcooking or burning.

Remember that the temperature settings may vary slightly depending on the model of your air fryer oven, so it is essential to refer to your specific model's instructions and make adjustments accordingly. By finding the right temperature and time combination, you'll be able to make delicious, golden toast in your air fryer oven every time.

Adding toppings

Now that you've made your toast in the air fryer, it's time to add toppings. Here are some ideas to elevate your toast:

Butter

Butter is a classic option that 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 bread without flipping it.

Avocado

Avocado toast is a popular choice. Keep it simple with just avocado, or add some salt and pepper for flavour. If you want to get more creative, try adding sliced cherry tomatoes, sautéed greens, or other toppings of your choice.

Nut Butter

Peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter, and Nutella are all delicious options for spreading on your toast.

Jam

Any type of fruity jam or preserve will work great and add a sweet touch to your toast.

Cinnamon and Sugar

For a simple yet tasty treat, spread some butter on your toast and sprinkle it with cinnamon and sugar.

Cream Cheese

Go for a sweeter option with cream cheese topped with sliced fruit, or choose a savoury route with garden veggie or chive cream cheese.

Garlic

For a quick and easy garlic toast, spread some butter on one side of the bread and sprinkle it with garlic powder or minced garlic before air frying. Don't flip the bread!

Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations of toppings to find your favourite!

Frequently asked questions