Easy and Crispy Air Fryer Croutons Recipe – Perfect Homemade

Croutons are a delightful way to elevate any salad, soup, or even pasta dish with a touch of crunch and flavor. While traditional methods of making croutons involve baking or frying, an air fryer simplifies the process, making it faster and healthier. This Air Fryer Croutons Recipe will show you how to transform stale or fresh bread into golden, crispy croutons with minimal effort and just a few pantry staples. Whether you’re topping a Caesar salad, garnishing a bowl of creamy soup, or simply snacking, these homemade croutons will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American, European
• Course: Side Dish, Topping, Snack
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: ~80 kcal

Timing:

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Active Time (Air Frying): 8-10 minutes
• Resting Time: None
• Total Time: 15 minutes

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 80 kcal
• Protein: 2 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fat: 4 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Sugar: <1 g

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Equipment

• Air Fryer (any model with a basket or tray will work)
• Mixing Bowl
• Knife and Cutting Board
• Measuring Spoons

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Ingredients

To make these crispy and flavorful croutons, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

1. Bread (4 slices) – Use stale or day-old bread for the best texture. Any type, such as sourdough, French baguette, or whole grain, works great.
2. Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – Adds richness and helps the croutons crisp up beautifully.
3. Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon) – For a subtle garlicky flavor.
4. Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon) – A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for added aroma.
5. Salt (1/4 teaspoon) – Adjust to taste.
6. Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon) – Optional, for a hint of spice.
7. Grated Parmesan Cheese (2 tablespoons) – Optional but adds an extra layer of flavor.

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread

• Cut your bread slices into even-sized cubes, approximately 1-inch pieces. Uniform sizing ensures even cooking.
• If your bread is very fresh, let the cubes sit out for about 15 minutes to slightly dry out. This helps achieve a better crunch.

2. Season the Bread

• In a large mixing bowl, add the bread cubes.
• Drizzle olive oil over the bread. Toss gently to coat the bread evenly.
• Sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Toss again to ensure each cube is well-seasoned.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 2 minutes. While preheating is optional for some air fryer models, it helps ensure the croutons cook evenly and crisp up perfectly.

4. Air Fry the Croutons

• Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper airflow.
• Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
• Check for doneness. The croutons should be golden brown and crispy. If they’re not crunchy enough, air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.

5. Cool and Serve

• Once done, transfer the croutons to a plate or bowl and let them cool for a few minutes. They’ll crisp up further as they cool.
• Serve immediately over soups, salads, or any dish that needs a flavorful crunch.

6. Storage Tips

• Store leftover croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Avoid refrigeration as it can make them chewy. To re-crisp, simply pop them back into the air fryer for 2-3 minutes.

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Tips and Variations

1. Bread Options: Experiment with different types of bread for varied textures and flavors. Rye bread adds a tangy flavor, while brioche offers a hint of sweetness.
2. Seasoning Variations: Add paprika, smoked paprika, or chili flakes for a spicy kick. Swap Italian seasoning for a curry powder blend or herbes de Provence for a unique twist.
3. Cheese Options: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative or use cheddar for a richer flavor.
4. Oil Substitutes: Use melted butter for a richer taste, or try avocado oil for a neutral flavor.
5. Sweet Croutons: For desserts or yogurt toppings, toss bread cubes with melted butter, cinnamon, and sugar before air frying.

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Why Make Croutons in an Air Fryer?

1. Speed: Air fryers cook croutons in less than half the time it takes to bake them in a conventional oven.
2. Healthier: With less oil and no need for deep frying, air-fried croutons are a lighter option.
3. Crispier: The rapid circulation of hot air ensures croutons get crispy on the outside while remaining slightly tender inside.
4. Versatility: Air fryers allow you to adjust cooking time and temperature, making it easy to customize the texture of your croutons.

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Serving Suggestions

1. Salads: Top a Caesar, Greek, or garden salad with these croutons for added crunch.
2. Soups: Use croutons to garnish creamy soups like tomato basil, butternut squash, or French onion soup.
3. Snacks: Enjoy these croutons as a standalone snack, perhaps with a dipping sauce like hummus or ranch.
4. Breakfast Bowls: Sprinkle croutons over avocado toast or breakfast bowls for extra texture.

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This Air Fryer Croutons Recipe is your go-to method for making crispy, flavorful croutons quickly and easily. With simple ingredients, customizable seasonings, and a healthier cooking technique, these croutons are bound to become a household favorite. Whether you’re trying to use up leftover bread or enhance a meal, this recipe will never disappoint!