Air Fryer Croutons – Crispy Homemade Recipe
If you love crunchy croutons on salads or soups but don’t want to rely on store-bought bags that go stale too quickly, making croutons in an air fryer is the perfect solution. These homemade air fryer croutons come out golden, crispy, and flavorful every time. Plus, they take less than 10 minutes to prepare, making them quicker and more reliable than oven-baked croutons.
Why Make Croutons in the Air Fryer?
Croutons in an air fryer are:
- Quick – Ready in minutes.
- Crispy – Perfect texture without burning.
- Customizable – Add your favorite seasonings.
- Fresh – Homemade tastes better than packaged croutons.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Only 5)
- 4 slices of bread (white, sourdough, or whole wheat), cut into cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or parsley flakes)
- ½ teaspoon salt
How to Make Croutons in the Air Fryer
Step 1: Preheat
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cube the bread.
Cut into bite-sized pieces about ½ to 1 inch thick.
Step 3: Season the bread.
In a bowl, whisk olive oil (or butter) with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
Step 4: Coat the cubes.
Toss the bread cubes in the mixture until evenly coated.
Step 5: Air fry.
Place cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Tips & Variations
- Olive oil vs. butter: Olive oil makes lighter croutons, while butter adds a richer flavor.
- Bread options: French bread, sourdough, or rustic sandwich bread work well.
- Flavor twist: Add parmesan, smoked paprika, or chili flakes for variety.
- Storage: Store in an airtight jar for up to 5 days.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 6g
- Carbs: 8g
- Protein: 1g
FAQs – People Also Ask
1. How do you make croutons in an air fryer?
Simply cube bread, season with oil and spices, and air fry for 5–7 minutes until golden brown.
2. Can you make croutons in an air fryer without oil?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. A light coating of olive oil gives the best texture and flavor.
3. What type of bread is best for croutons?
Sourdough and French baguette work best, but any leftover bread can be used.
4. How long do homemade croutons last?
They stay fresh for about 5 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze and reheat.
5. Are air fryer croutons healthier than store-bought?
Yes! You control the ingredients, reduce sodium, and skip preservatives.
Conclusion
Making croutons in the air fryer is quick, easy, and much tastier than buying pre-packaged ones. With just five simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of crispy, golden croutons in minutes. Perfect for topping salads, soups, or even enjoying as a snack, this recipe proves that homemade is always better. Next time you wonder how to make croutons in the air fryer, this recipe will be your go-to.
