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Air Fryer Croutons

Name: Air Fryer Croutons
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Ingredients: 4 cups bread cubes (stale); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

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Air Fryer Croutons — If you have been looking for an easy way to make homemade croutons on the air fryer, no look further, and this might be the best croutons you ever have in your life!

They are easy and delicious; in less than 10 minutes, you can make them in your air fryer.

So, skip the store bought croutons, and make a batch of crispy air fryer croutons today!

Can you make croutons in air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely make croutons in an air fryer! It’s a quick and easy way to achieve crispy and flavorful croutons. Cut your bread into cubes, toss them with olive oil and your choice of seasonings (such as garlic powder, dried herbs, or Parmesan cheese), and then air fry them until golden brown and crunchy. It usually takes just a few minutes, and you’ll have delicious homemade croutons ready to enhance your salads, soups, and more.

Croutons in air fryer

Upgrade your salads, soups, and snacks with the delightful crunch of homemade Croutons in the Air Fryer! 🥗✨

These golden nuggets of goodness are easy to make, and the air fryer ensures they turn out perfectly crisp. Say goodbye to store-bought croutons, and let’s dive into this simple, flavorful recipe that will elevate your culinary creations. Get ready to take your salads and soups to the next level!

Why Make Homemade Croutons In The Air Fryer

Making homemade air-fried croutons offers several advantages:

Crispiness: The air fryer provides even and consistent heating, resulting in croutons that are perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining tender inside.
Control over Ingredients: You have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to customize your croutons with your preferred seasonings and bread type. This means you can make them as simple or flavorful as you like.
Healthier Option: When you make croutons at home, you can control the amount of oil and salt used, making them a healthier alternative to store-bought versions that may contain excess additives.
Freshness: Homemade croutons are fresher and taste better than pre-packaged ones. You can use fresh bread and ensure they’re at their peak when added to your dishes.
Reduced Food Waste: Making croutons at home is an excellent way to repurpose stale bread, reducing food waste in your kitchen.
Quick and Easy: Air fryers are known for their speed and efficiency. Making croutons in the air fryer is quick and perfect for busy cooks.

Making homemade croutons in the air fryer is a simple and rewarding way to enhance your salads, soups, and other dishes with a delightful crunch and flavor.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer CroutonsAre you looking for a way to get delicious, crunchy croutons in just minutes? If so, then air fryer croutons are just what you need! Below, you will learn about the ingredients needed for air fryer croutons and how to make them.

These croutons not only taste great, but they’re also incredibly convenient, as they can be ready in no time at all with minimal effort. So, if you’ve ever wondered how good your salad or soup could be topped off with homemade crunchy croutons – read on and find out!

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below in teh printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Bread Cubes: Stale bread cubes. Use your favorite bread, such as French, Italian, or whole wheat bread.
Olive Oil: Olive oil will help the bread cubes crisp and golden brown during air frying. You can also use avocado oil.
Garlic Powder: For added flavor. This gives the croutons a subtle garlic kick.
Different Seasonings and Herbs: Herbs like oregano, thyme, basil, or a combination for seasoning. It imparts a lovely aroma and taste.
Salt and Pepper: Add Kosher salt (or sea salt) and black pepper to taste. Adjust according to your preference.
Parmesan Cheese (Optional): To make Parmesan croutons, you can include grated cheese for a savory, cheesy twist.

These simple ingredients will create flavorful and crispy croutons that you can use to elevate your salads, soups, and various other dishes. Enjoy your delicious croutons!

How To Make Croutons In An Air Fryer

Are you looking for a healthier, tastier alternative to store-bought croutons? Look no further than your air fryer! Making homemade croutons in an air fryer is easy and creates crunchy little bits of perfection. Not only are these healthy snacks full of flavor, but they can also add texture and interest to salads or soups. Plus, with our easy step-by-step guide on how to make delicious croutons in an air fryer, you’ll have the perfect crispy treat ready in minutes. So let’s get frying – read on for tips on creating snack heaven at home!

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes. This will ensure that the croutons cook evenly and become crispy.

Prepare the Bread Cubes: Cut your stale bread into 1-inch cubes using a sharp or serrated knife. Stale bread works best because it absorbs less oil and becomes crispier.

Season the Bread Crumbs: Drizzle the olive oil over the bread slices in a large mixing bowl. Add the garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss the bread cubes until they are evenly coated with the seasonings. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, add it now and toss to combine; let sit for a couple of minutes.

Air Fry the Croutons: Place the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket or baking tray. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer. Do not overcrowd the basket.

Air Fry: Set the cooking time for 8-10 minutes. Shake the basket or use tongs to toss the croutons every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. They should be golden brown and crisp.

Cool and Store: Once the croutons are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool. They will continue to crisp up as they cool down. Once completely cool, store them in an airtight container for later use.

Serve: Use your homemade air fryer croutons to add a delightful crunch to salads, soups, or as a tasty snack.

Best Kind Of Bread For Croutons

The best kind of bread for making croutons depends on your flavor preferences and the dish you plan to pair them with. Here are some popular bread options for croutons:

White Bread: I love making crispy croutons with my leftover bread, such as regular sandwich bread or day-old bread.

French Baguette: French bread is a classic choice for croutons. They have a light, airy texture on the inside and a crispy crust, making for a delightful contrast in your salad or soup. Leftover baguette are a great choice for a batch of homemade croutons.

Italian Bread: Italian bread, known for its slightly chewy texture and mild flavor, works well for croutons. It’s versatile and complements a variety of seasonings.

Whole Wheat Bread: Whole wheat bread is an excellent choice if you prefer a heartier, nuttier flavor and added fiber. It creates croutons with a wholesome taste.

Sourdough: Sourdough bread adds a tangy flavor to your croutons, making them a unique and flavorful addition to salads and soups.

Multigrain Bread: Multigrain bread combines various grains and seeds, providing texture and depth of flavor to your croutons.

Rye Bread: Rye bread has a distinctive, slightly earthy taste that can give your croutons a different dimension, especially in salads with strong flavors.

Gluten-Free Bread: If you have dietary restrictions, gluten-free bread can make gluten-free croutons. Just ensure the bread is slightly stale before air frying.

Ultimately, the best bread for croutons is the one you enjoy the most; you do not need fancy bread for this easy recipe. Experiment with different types to find the flavor and texture that suits your taste buds and complements your dishes.

Recipe Variations

Air Fryer Croutons with Olive Oil: Indulge in the rich, savory goodness of homemade Air Fryer Croutons with Olive Oil. These croutons are a delight for the senses, featuring the perfect combination of crispy texture and robust flavors. Coated in extra virgin olive oil infused with garlic powder and dried basil, these croutons add a savory punch to salads and soups. The air fryer transforms them into golden, crunchy bites that are delicious and healthier than their store-bought counterparts. With these croutons, your dishes will reach a new level of gourmet perfection.

Air Fryer Croutons without Oil: Air Fryer Croutons without Oil are the perfect choice for those seeking a lighter alternative. These croutons are a testament to simplicity and taste. Seasoned with a blend of garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried thyme, they provide a burst of flavor without the added oil fats. The air fryer works its magic, crisping these cubes into delightful, guilt-free bites. Whether you’re watching your calorie intake or prefer a more natural taste, these croutons are a fantastic addition to salads and soups, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. You can use seasoned butter to add a little crunch to your air fryer croutons.

Pro Tips For The Best Air Fryer Croutons Recipe

To make the best Air Fryer Croutons, consider these pro tips:

Use Stale Bread: Stale bread works best for croutons because it’s drier and absorbs less oil, resulting in crispier croutons. If you have fresh bread, cube it and let it sit out for a few hours to become slightly stale.

Even Cubes: Cut the bread into uniform 1 inch cubes. This ensures even cooking, so you don’t end up with some croutons overcooked while others are undercooked.

Seasoning Variation: Get creative with your seasonings. Beyond garlic powder and dried herbs, consider adding spices like paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and cayenne pepper for a kick or grated lemon zest for a fresh twist. Season bread cubes generously.

Toss Thoroughly: When mixing the bread cubes with olive oil and seasonings, toss bread well to ensure each cube is coated evenly.

Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If needed, cook the croutons in batches, as crowding can lead to uneven cooking.

Shake or Stir: While air frying, shake the basket or use tongs to stir the croutons every 2-3 minutes. This helps them cook uniformly and prevents burning.

Monitor Closely: Keep a close eye on the croutons during the last few minutes of cooking. They can go from golden brown to burnt quickly.

Cool Before Storing: Let the croutons cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their crispiness.

Customize: Feel free to customize your croutons to match the dish you plan to serve them with. For example, add grated Parmesan for a cheesy flavor or a pinch of sugar for a sweeter touch.

Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of bread, seasonings, and even oils. Each variation can yield a unique and delicious result.

With these tips, you’ll consistently achieve crispy and flavorful croutons in your air fryer, ready to elevate your salads, soups, and more.

How To Use Homemade Air Fryer Croutons

Homemade Air Fryer Croutons are a versatile and delicious addition to various dishes. Here are some ways to use them:

Salads: Sprinkle your homemade croutons over your favorite salad. They add a satisfying crunch and elevate the texture and flavor of your salad. Whether it’s a Caesar salad, garden salad, or spinach salad, croutons are a classic topping.
Soups: Float croutons on top of your favorite soups, such as tomato soup, French onion soup, or even a hearty vegetable stew. They absorb the creamy soups flavors and provide a delightful contrast in texture.
Stuffing: Croutons are an essential ingredient in making stuffing for holiday dinners. Use your homemade croutons as a base for a delicious homemade stuffing recipe.
Snacking: Croutons make for a crunchy and flavorful snack on their own. Keep a bowl of them on hand for a quick and satisfying munch between meals.
Casseroles: Incorporate croutons into casserole dishes, such as chicken and broccoli casserole or creamy baked pasta. They can add a delightful texture and soak up the dish’s flavors.
Garnish: Use croutons for various dishes, including creamy risottos, macaroni, cheese, or even a bowl of chili. They provide both visual appeal and a delightful bite.
Panzanella: Make a classic Italian bread salad called Panzanella by mixing croutons with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and fresh basil. Dress with olive oil and vinegar for a refreshing summer dish.
Dips: Crush croutons into breadcrumbs and use them to coat chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, or other items you plan to air fry or bake. They can create a crispy, flavorful coating.
Breakfast: Top scrambled eggs with croutons for a savory breakfast for a unique and satisfying twist.
Charcuterie Board: Include croutons on a charcuterie or cheese board. They can provide a crunchy element that pairs well with cheeses, cured meats and spreads.Homemade Air Fryer Croutons add a delightful crunch and flavor to a wide range of dishes, so feel free to get creative and experiment with different recipes and flavor combinations!

Can I use fresh bread to make croutons in the air fryer?

While stale bread is recommended, you can use fresh bread. Simply cube it and let it sit out for a few hours to dry slightly before air frying.

How long do homemade air fryer croutons stay fresh?

Homemade croutons can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I freeze homemade croutons?

Yes, you can freeze homemade croutons. Store them in an airtight container or a freezer bag; they should stay good for several months. Re-crisp them in the air fryer or oven after thawing.

Can I use different types of bread for croutons?

Absolutely! Different bread types, like French, Italian, or whole wheat, will give your croutons unique flavors and textures. Experiment to find your favorite.

What can I do with leftover croutons?

Leftover croutons are versatile. Besides salads and soups, you can use them as a topping for casseroles, stuffing, or even a crunchy addition to macaroni and cheese.

Can I use butter instead of olive oil for croutons?

You can use melted butter or seasoned butter instead of olive oil for a richer flavor. It’s a delicious alternative.

Can I make croutons with gluten-free bread?

Absolutely! You can make gluten-free croutons using gluten-free bread. Just ensure the bread is slightly stale for the best results. Use day old bread for the recipe; you can use homemade bread or store bought gf bread.

Are homemade croutons healthier than store-bought ones?

Homemade croutons can be healthier as you control the ingredients, including the oil and salt. You can make them to suit your dietary preference.

More Air Fryer Recipes

Homemade Air Fryer Croutons are a game-changer for elevating your culinary creations. Whether you opt for the savory richness of olive oil-coated croutons or the lighter, oil-free version with herbs, these little cubes of crispy perfection can transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary ones. Their versatility knows no bounds, from salads to soups, casseroles to snacks, and everything in between. Making your croutons in the air fryer ensures a delightful crunch and a healthier option compared to store-bought varieties. So, embark on culinary adventures with these homemade croutons and discover how they can turn every meal into a delight!