Can I Make Toast in an Air Fryer

Learn how to make perfect air fryer toast in just a few minutes! All you need is an air fryer and your favorite bread for crispy, golden results every time. Plated Cravings

Ever wondered if you can ditch your toaster and still enjoy perfectly crispy toast? The answer is a resounding yes—you can make fantastic toast in an air fryer! I’ve been experimenting with my air fryer for a while now, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer for breakfast. Not only does it toast bread evenly, but it also gives you that golden crunch that’s hard to achieve with a traditional toaster. Plus, it’s versatile enough to handle everything from basic white bread to fancy sourdough or even bagels. Let’s dive into how to make toast in an air fryer, why it works so well, and some tips to get it just right.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Toast?

An air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food, which makes it ideal for toasting bread. Unlike a toaster, which can sometimes leave you with unevenly browned slices or burnt edges, an air fryer distributes heat more consistently. This means you get a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender. Another perk? You can toast multiple slices at once, depending on the size of your air fryer, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping breakfast in a hurry. And if you’re tight on counter space, like I am in my small apartment, you can skip the toaster altogether and free up some room!

What You’ll Need

Making toast in an air fryer is as simple as it gets. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bread: Any kind works—white, whole wheat, sourdough, rye, or even gluten-free. Thicker slices like Texas toast or baguette might need a bit more time.
• Butter or spread (optional): Butter adds flavor and enhances that golden-brown crisp. You can also use vegan butter, olive oil, or skip it entirely.
• Air fryer: Basket-style or oven-style both work, though basket-style may require a bit more attention to prevent bread from moving around.
• Toppings (optional): Think avocado, jam, peanut butter, or cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Air Fryer Toast

Here’s how to make toast that’ll rival your favorite diner’s. I’ve tested this method with both my basket-style Cosori air fryer and an oven-style model, and it works like a charm every time.

1. Prepare the Bread: Choose your bread and slice it to your preferred thickness. If it’s pre-sliced, you’re good to go. Lightly butter one or both sides for extra flavor and crispiness, but this is optional. If you’re making cinnamon toast, mix butter with cinnamon and sugar and spread it on before cooking for a melty, delicious result.
2. Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the bread in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray if you’re using an oven-style model. Avoid overlapping slices, as this can lead to uneven toasting. If you’re worried about lightweight bread (like thin white slices) flying around in a basket-style air fryer, stick a toothpick through two slices to weigh them down or place a metal rack on top.
3. Set the Temperature and Time: Set your air fryer to 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 204°C). I find 390°F works best for a balance of speed and even browning. Toast for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on how crispy you like it. Thinner slices might be done in 3 minutes, while thicker ones, like sourdough, could take up to the bread halfway through for even toasting, especially in a basket-style air fryer.
4. Check for Doneness: Peek at your toast around the 3-minute mark. If it’s not golden enough, add another minute or two. Air fryers vary, so it might take a couple of tries to nail the timing for your machine.
5. Add Toppings and Serve: Once it’s perfectly golden, remove the toast with tongs (it’ll be hot!) and add your favorite toppings. I love spreading on some mashed avocado with a sprinkle of feta or going classic with butter and jam. For a sweet treat, try cinnamon toast—it’s a nostalgic favorite.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Toast

After making countless batches of air fryer toast, here are my top tips to ensure you get it right every time:

• Don’t Skip the Flip: Flipping halfway ensures both sides get that perfect crunch, especially in basket-style air fryers where air circulation can be stronger on one side.
• Watch the Bread: Lightweight slices can get blown around by the air fryer’s fan. If this happens, it’s usually a sign the toast is nearly done, but you can prevent it by using toothpicks or a rack, as mentioned earlier.
• Adjust for Bread Type: Thicker breads like brioche or Texas toast may need an extra minute, while thinner slices like white bread toast faster. Frozen bread works too—just add an extra minute or two and flip halfway.
• Experiment with Toppings: Unlike a toaster, you can add toppings like cheese or cinnamon sugar before cooking, and they’ll melt beautifully. For cheese toast, pre-toast the bread for 2 minutes, add shredded cheddar, and air fry for another 2 minutes for a melty, crispy treat.
• No Preheating Needed (Usually): Most recipes don’t require preheating, but if your air fryer runs cool, a quick 2-minute preheat at 350°F can help with even toasting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

I’ve made a few oops moments while toasting bread in my air fryer, so here’s what to watch out for:

• Overcrowding: Piling slices on top of each other leads to soggy spots. Always go for a single layer, even if it means cooking in batches.
• Using Parchment Liners: Avoid liners when toasting bread, as they can get caught in the fan and cause a mess—or worse, a fire hazard.
• Ignoring Your Air Fryer’s Quirks: Every air fryer is a bit different. My friend’s Ninja Foodi toasts faster than my Cosori, so start with shorter times and adjust as needed.
• Overcooking: Check early to avoid burning. It’s easy to add more time, but you can’t un-burn toast!

Creative Ways to Use Air Fryer Toast

Once you’ve mastered basic toast, the air fryer opens up a world of possibilities. Here are a few ideas I’ve tried that my family loves:

• Avocado Toast: Toast your bread, then top with mashed avocado, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt or Everything Bagel seasoning.
• Cheese Toast: Pre-toast for 2 minutes, add a layer of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work great), and air fry for another 1-2 minutes until bubbly. Happy Veggie Kitchen has a great recipe for this.
• French Toast: Dip bread in a mixture of eggs, milk, and cinnamon, then air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway. It’s crispy outside, fluffy inside, and perfect for a weekend brunch.
• Breakfast Sandwich Base: Toast your bread, then layer with scrambled eggs, bacon, and a slice of cheese for a quick, diner-style sandwich.

Why I Ditched My Toaster

Honestly, I haven’t touched my toaster since I started making toast in my air fryer. It’s not just about the crispiness—it’s the versatility. I can toast four slices at once, add toppings before cooking, and even make fancy stuff like French toast or cheesy melts without turning on the oven. Plus, cleanup is a breeze; just wipe down the basket or tray, and you’re done. If you’re like me and love a kitchen gadget that can do it all, the air fryer is your new best friend.

FAQs About Air Fryer Toast

Can I toast frozen bread? Yes! Just add 1-2 minutes to the cooking time and flip halfway to ensure even toasting. No need to thaw first.

Will the bread stick to the basket? Nope, bread doesn’t typically stick, so you don’t need to grease the basket. If you’re worried, a light spray of cooking oil won’t hurt.

Can I make other things like bagels or English muffins? Absolutely! Slice them in half, air fry at 390°F for 3-4 minutes, and you’re good to go. Butter or cream cheese can be added before or after.

What’s the best temperature? Anywhere between 350°F and 400°F works, depending on your air fryer and how crispy you want your toast. I stick to 390°F for most breads.

Once you try air fryer toast, you may never go back to a regular toaster! It’s fast, easy, and delivers perfectly crispy, golden toast every time. Enjoy! Everyday Family Cooking