How to Make a Simple Bread Recipe for Air Fryer – Easy and Quick
Baking bread at home has never been easier, thanks to the versatility of an air fryer. This simple bread recipe for air fryer baking delivers soft, fluffy, and golden-brown bread with minimal effort. If you’re looking to create fresh homemade bread but don’t want the hassle of using a full-sized oven, this recipe is for you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, using an air fryer allows you to bake small batches quickly without sacrificing quality or flavor.
Homemade bread is not just delicious but also healthier, as you control the ingredients and skip preservatives. From breakfast toast to sandwich slices, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the details and discover how you can make this simple bread recipe for your air fryer at home.
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 290mg
Recipe Details
- Cuisine: American, European
- Course: Bread, Side Dish
- Servings: 6-8 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Active Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Equipment
- Air fryer (with a baking pan or bread pan insert)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Dough scraper or spatula
- Clean kitchen towel
- Small whisk or fork
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra elasticity)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water (around 100°F or 38°C)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any neutral oil)
Optional additions:
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (e.g., rosemary or thyme) for flavor
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. If you’re using herbs, mix them in at this stage.
- Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour. Mix well using a spatula or your hands until a dough begins to form.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a loaf or a round, depending on your preference and the size of your air fryer pan.
Step 6: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 5 minutes.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
- Place the shaped dough into a greased air fryer baking pan or directly onto parchment paper if your air fryer basket is large enough.
- Bake the bread in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 18-20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or tapping the bread—it should sound hollow.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Remove the bread from the air fryer and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your fresh, homemade bread!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bread
- Water Temperature: Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Air Fryer Size: Adjust the recipe if your air fryer is small. You can divide the dough and bake in two batches if needed.
- Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. It stays fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze slices and reheat as needed.
- Add Toppings: Brush the top of the bread with olive oil or water and sprinkle seeds or oats before baking for extra texture and flavor.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Bread?
The air fryer provides a compact and energy-efficient method for baking bread. Its rapid hot air circulation ensures even baking and a beautiful crust without heating your entire kitchen. This simple bread recipe for air fryer baking is a game-changer for small households, beginners, or anyone looking for a quick and easy way to make homemade bread.
Now you have a foolproof, easy recipe to make fresh bread at home with minimal effort and equipment. Whether it’s for a hearty sandwich or paired with your favorite soup, this bread recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with different herbs, seeds, or even grated cheese for a unique twist. Happy baking!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.