Are you looking for a savory, indulgent treat that’s quick to make without breaking the bank? The Air Fryer Crack Bread is perfect!

A fun spin on traditional garlic bread, this easy and delicious snack will have your family and friends swarming around the kitchen.

Air Fryer Crack Bread
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Utilizing an air fryer ensures that each piece comes out with crispy edges and soft centers for pure comfort food satisfaction. It is simple enough to whip up in no time and uses minimal ingredients, so you can easily create a gourmet-level side dish – minus the hefty price tag!

What Is Crack Bread?

Crack bread, also known as pull-apart or monkey bread, is made by taking small balls of dough, coating them in a mixture of butter and other seasonings, and then baking them together in a loaf pan.

As the bread bakes, the butter mixture seeps into the layers of dough, creating a rich, savory flavor and a soft, pillowy texture. The name “crack bread” comes from the fact that the bread is often so addictive it’s hard to stop eating once you start! Crack bread can be made with various seasonings and toppings, including garlic, cheese, herbs, and sweet flavors like cinnamon and sugar.

Air Fryer Crack Bread

​Why Make Crack Bread In Air Fryer

​Making crack bread in an air fryer is an excellent option for those who want a faster and more efficient cooking process. Air fryers use hot air to circulate the food, which results in a crispy exterior and a soft interior, similar to traditional deep-frying but with less oil. Air fryers also preheat quickly, and the cooking time is typically shorter than traditional baking in the oven, which makes it a good option for those who want a quick and easy snack or appetizer.

Another benefit of making crack bread in an air fryer is that it allows for more customization in seasonings and toppings. You can experiment with different coatings and ingredients with an air fryer to create a unique flavor profile. Additionally, air fryers are often smaller than ovens, so you can make smaller batches of crack bread without having to heat up your entire oven, which can save time and energy.

Making crack bread in an air fryer is a convenient and efficient option that can produce delicious results.

​Ingredients Needed For Crack Bread In Air Fryer

Picking the right ingredients is essential for any recipe, and creating something delicious like Crack Bread in an air fryer is no exception. Despite its impressive name, crack bread requires a few simple pantry staples that you probably have on hand already.

Whether this will be your first time making it or you’re an experienced home cook looking to perfect your air fryer technique, follow along to explore all the necessary ingredients for this drool-worthy snack.

Ingredients Needed For Crack Bread In Air Fryer

Remember the step-by-step directions are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page, as well as the nutritional information. 

  • Loaf Of Bread: Use Artician Round Loaf, French Bread, Sourdough Loaf, or even Italian Bread
  • Butter: What would be better than melted garlic butter for this recipe?
  • Cheese: A blend of Mozzarella Cheese and Parmesan Cheese!
  • Seasonings: Use Italian Seasoning, Minced Garlic, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, and Parsley

​How To Make Pull-Apart Bread In An Air Fryer​

Pull-apart bread is not only visually stunning and delicious, but it’s surprisingly easy to make in an air fryer. This versatile dish can be customized with whatever flavors you enjoy, from savory cheese and herbs to decadent brownies or sweet cinnamon roll flavors; the possibilities are endless!

Today we’ll show you our complete step-by-step guide for making these delightful pull-apart loaves right in your kitchen using nothing but an air fryer. So fire up that stovetop, get out your favorite ingredients – let’s get baking!

​How To Make Pull-Apart Bread In An Air Fryer

​Step One: Cut The Bread Slice your bread with a sharp, serrated knife for the perfect 1″ thick slices. Cut just shy of all the way through and turn it 90 degrees to create an even grid – you’ll have stuffed bread in no time!

Air Fryer Crack Bread

​Step Two: Add You Filling

In a small bowl, paper the garlic butter, add the melted butter, garlic, parsley, and onion powder, and then mix well. Brush the garlic butter over it, allowing it to spread into the cracks of the bread.

Add the shredded cheese to all of the spaces in your bread.  

Crack Bread with Garlic Butter over it

Step Three: Air Fry

Place the bread on a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil, then brush more of the garlic butter over it, allowing it to spread into the cracks of the bread. Place the entire bread into the air fryer basket and set the cooking time for 6-8 minutes at 350 degrees F using the air fryer setting. Remove when golden brown. ​

rush the garlic butter over it, allowing it to spread into the cracks of the bread.

Step Four: Serving

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs.

Crack Bread in Air Fryer

Tips For Cooking Pull-Apart Bread In Air Fryer

Here are some tips to help you get the best results when cooking pull-apart crack bread in an air fryer:

  • Cut the dough into bite-sized pieces: Cut the dough into small, bite-sized pieces to cook evenly in the air fryer; follow the directions below. 
  • Use a non-stick spray: Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray before adding the bread pieces to prevent them from sticking.
  • Don’t overcrowd the basket: Leave enough space between the bread loaf so that the hot air can circulate and cook them evenly. You may need to cut your loaf of bread to fit in the air fryer, leaving space around the bread.
  • Customize the seasonings: Experiment with different seasonings and toppings to create your unique flavor profile.
  • Serve immediately: Crack bread is best served warm, so try to serve it as soon as it comes out of the air fryer.

Following these tips, you can make delicious and perfectly cooked pull-apart crack bread in your air fryer.

How To Cut Bread For Crack Bread​

Crack bread is an easy and delicious appetizer or snack that requires only a few ingredients. You’ll first need to cut your bread into many pieces, using a bread knife, to prepare it. Here’s how to properly cut your bread for crack bread:

  1. Slice the loaf of bread into 1/2-inch thick slices.
  2. Cut each slice of bread diagonally or horizontally into four triangles or rectangles, depending on the shape of the loaf.
  3. Cut each triangle or rectangle in half again to create smaller cubes approximately 1/2 inch in size.
  4. Repeat this process until all the slices have been cubed and you have enough pieces for your crack bread recipe!
Crack Bread

Best Bread For Crack Bread

Crack bread is an easy and delicious appetizer or snack that requires only a few bread ingredients. You’ll need to choose the right type of bread for your recipe to get the best results. Here are some of the best breads for crack bread:

  • French Bread: A classic French baguette makes a great hearty base for your crack bread, as it absorbs the flavors of the toppings without getting soggy.
  • Sourdough Bread: Sourdough has a slightly crusty bread and chewy center that holds up well with all types of toppings.
  • Garlic Bread Loaf: Nothing is better than more garlic; garlic crack bread is fantastic!
  • Ciabatta Bread: Ciabatta is slightly sweet and has large air pockets, making it perfect for absorbing sauces or moisture from other ingredients.
  • Rye Bread: Rye is darker in color and has a robust flavor that pairs perfectly with savory topping combinations.

​Best Cheese For Pull-Apart Air Fryer Bread​

Pull-apart air fryer bread is an easy and delicious snack that uses the air fryer to create a golden and crispy exterior with a soft center. YOu will need to get a cheesy pull-apart bread recipe; you need to use lots of cheese. You’ll need to choose the right type of cheese to get the most out of your pull-apart air fryer bread. Here are some of the best cheeses for pull-apart air fryer bread:

  • Mozzarella: Mozzarella is a semi-soft cow’s milk cheese that melts easily. It has a mild, slightly salty flavor pairs great with all types of toppings.
  • Cheddar: Cheddar is a sharp, hard cheese that adds a bold flavor to any recipe. Its creamy texture also helps bind together all ingredients in the dish.
  • Parmesan: Parmesan is a nutty and salty cheese with a crumbly texture that stands up well to heat without losing its flavor or shape.
  • Gruyère: Gruyère is an aged Swiss cheese with an intense flavor profile and aroma that will add depth to any dish.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Pull-Apart Bread​

Air fryer pull-apart bread is an easy and delicious snack that can be enjoyed on its own or served with various accompaniments. Here are some ideas for what to serve with your air fryer pull-apart bread:

  • Dips & Sauces: Serve your pull-apart bread with dips and sauces such as hummus, salsa, ranch dressing, or guacamole to make it even more satisfying.
  • Pasta Dinners: A great choice is to serve with my Instant Pot Spaghetti Recipe.
  • Salads: Enjoy your air fryer bread as part of a light meal by serving it alongside a crisp salad.
  • Soups & Stews: Make your air fryer pull-apart bread into the perfect side dish by pairing it with hearty soups and stews like chili or lentil soup.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Add extra flavor and texture to your snack by serving roasted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or eggplant along with your air fryer pull-apart bread.
Crack bread from air fryer

How To Store A Loaf of Cheesy Pull​

Cheesy pull-apart bread is an easy and delicious snack that uses the air fryer to create a golden and crispy exterior with a soft center. To ensure that your cheesy pull-apart bread stays fresh, it’s important to store it correctly. Here are some tips for how to properly store a loaf of cheesy pull-apart bread:

  • Storing: Keep your loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Another great option is to wrap with saran wrap or plastic wrap to enjoy later. 
  • Freezing: If you’re not planning on eating the whole loaf within three days, you can freeze it for up to two months.
  • Reheating: To reheat frozen cheesy pull-apart bread, thaw in the refrigerator first and then heat in the oven or air fryer until hot and crunchy.

More Air Fryer Recipes

Air Fryer Crack Bread

Air Fryer Crack Bread

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

Are you looking for a savory, indulgent treat that's quick to make without breaking the bank? The Air Fryer Crack Bread is perfect!

Ingredients 

  • 1 loaf Bread
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup butter, unsalted, melted
  • 3 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  • Cut The Bread Slice your bread with a sharp, serrated knife for the perfect 1" thick slices. Cut just shy of all the way through and turn it 90 degrees to create an even grid – you'll have stuffed bread in no time!
  • In a small bowl, paper the garlic butter, add the melted butter, garlic, garlic powder, parsley, and onion powder, and then mix well. Brush the garlic butter over it, allowing it to spread into the cracks of the bread.
  • Add the shredded cheese to all of the spaces in your bread.  
  • Place the bread on a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil, then brush more of the garlic butter over it, allowing it to spread into the cracks of the bread. Place the entire bread into the air fryer basket and set the cooking time for 6-8 minutes at 350 degrees F using the air fryer setting. Remove when golden brown. ​
  • Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs.

Equipment

  • Parchment Paper, optional
  • Cooking Spray, optional

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 341kcalCarbohydrates: 41gProtein: 13gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 28mgSodium: 586mgPotassium: 143mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 299IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 218mgIron: 3mg

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