Do you love the crunchy, garlicky goodness of croutons, but want to make them in a healthier way? Look no further than your trusty air fryer! With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy delicious homemade croutons that are perfect for topping salads, soups, and more. In this article, we’ll show you how to make croutons in your air fryer, and we’ll even share some fun and creative ideas for customizing them to suit your taste. So, grab your air fryer and let’s get started!

To begin, you’ll need a few basic ingredients: some day-old bread, olive oil, and seasonings of your choice. You can use any type of bread you like, but a hearty, crusty loaf works best for that classic crunch. You can also opt for whole grain or gluten-free bread if you prefer. Start by cutting the bread into bite-sized cubes – about 1-inch pieces are perfect for croutons. Then, toss the cubes in a bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper are classic choices, but feel free to get creative! You could try adding some grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, or even a touch of cinnamon for a unique twist.

Once your bread cubes are coated with oil and seasonings, it’s time to pop them into the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F, then spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer in the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the croutons in batches to ensure they cook evenly. Cook the croutons for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. Keep a close eye on them as they cook – they can go from perfectly golden to slightly burnt in a matter of seconds!

When the croutons are golden brown and crisp, carefully remove them from the air fryer and let them cool. They’ll continue to crisp up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem slightly soft when you first take them out. Once they’re completely cooled, transfer your homemade croutons to an airtight container for storage. They should stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week – if they last that long!

Now that you know the basics of making croutons in your air fryer, it’s time to get creative with flavors and toppings. Try tossing your croutons with a drizzle of truffle oil and a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan for a gourmet touch. Or, add a kick of heat with a dash of cayenne pepper and a sprinkle of ranch seasoning. You can even experiment with different types of bread – whole grain, rye, or even sourdough all make delicious croutons with unique flavors and textures.

So, there you have it – a simple, fun, and delicious way to make croutons in your air fryer. With just a few basic ingredients and a little creativity, you can elevate any dish with the perfect crunchy, flavorful topping. So, go ahead and give it a try – your salads and soups will thank you!