Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Croutons Recipe
These air fryer croutons are incredibly simple to prepare and require only a handful of pantry ingredients. They cook quickly and evenly in the air fryer, producing perfectly crisp cubes without the need to heat up your oven.
You’ll also love how versatile this recipe is. Different types of bread can be used, and the seasoning can easily be customized to match your favorite dishes. Homemade croutons are fresher, more flavorful, and a great way to use up leftover bread instead of letting it go to waste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 cups cubed day old bread (French, Italian, or sourdough)
3 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried parsley
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
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Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
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In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper until the bread is evenly coated.
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Place the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
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Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
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Remove the croutons once they are golden and crispy. Allow them to cool completely before storing.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 3 servings.
Preparation time: about 10 minutes
Cooking time: 6 to 8 minutes
Total time: approximately 18 minutes
Variations
Cheesy croutons can be made by tossing the bread cubes with a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese before air frying. The cheese adds a rich, savory flavor.
For herb croutons, add dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil to the seasoning mixture. This works especially well for Italian-style salads and soups.
Spicy croutons are another delicious option. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to give them a subtle heat.
If you prefer buttery croutons, replace the olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
Whole grain croutons can be made using whole wheat or multigrain bread for a heartier texture and slightly nutty taste.
Storage/Reheating
Once the croutons have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crisp for up to one week.
If the croutons lose some of their crunch, you can refresh them by placing them back in the air fryer for 1 to 2 minutes at 350°F.
Avoid storing croutons while they are still warm, as trapped moisture can make them soft.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
Yes, you can use fresh bread, but day-old bread works best because it is slightly drier and crisps up more easily in the air fryer.
What type of bread works best for croutons?
French bread, Italian bread, and sourdough are excellent choices because they have a sturdy texture that holds up well during cooking.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating helps the croutons cook more evenly and achieve a crisp texture faster.
How do I keep croutons crispy?
Allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Moisture can make them lose their crunch.
Can I freeze croutons?
Yes, croutons can be frozen in an airtight container for up to two months. Reheat them briefly in the air fryer to restore crispness.
Why are my croutons not crispy?
This usually happens when the basket is overcrowded or the bread cubes are too fresh. Make sure the bread is slightly dry and cook in a single layer.
Can I add other seasonings?
Absolutely. You can experiment with paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or even lemon zest for different flavor profiles.
How big should the bread cubes be?
Bread cubes around ¾ to 1 inch work well. This size allows the croutons to crisp evenly without burning.
Can I make these croutons without oil?
Yes, but a small amount of oil helps the croutons brown and crisp better. Without oil, the texture may be slightly drier.
What dishes can I use croutons in?
Croutons are perfect for topping salads, creamy soups, Caesar salad, tomato soup, or even adding crunch to casseroles.
Conclusion
Air fryer croutons are a simple and delicious way to add crunch and flavor to many dishes. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, they are an easy homemade alternative to store-bought versions. Once you try making croutons in the air fryer, you may never go back to packaged ones again.
