Crispy Air Fryer Croutons

Transform your ordinary salads and soups with the extraordinary crunch of homemade croutons! This ultimate guide to making Easy Air Fryer Croutons will show you how to craft perfect, crispy morsels right in your kitchen. Whether you prefer the tangy chewiness of sourdough or the wholesome goodness of Ezekiel bread for a healthier option, our recipe makes it simple. Just coat your bread cubes with a generous drizzle of olive oil, fresh garlic, and your favorite seasonings, then let your air fryer do the magic. In minutes, you’ll have golden-brown, irresistibly crunchy croutons that elevate any dish from simple to spectacular.

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Have you ever experienced the legendary croutons at Cracker Barrel? Their texture and flavor are truly something special – so much so that they’re often sold separately for takeout! If you’ve been searching for that gourmet, restaurant-quality crunch at home, this recipe, especially when made with sourdough bread, comes remarkably close. Forget those bland, pre-packaged croutons from the store; once you taste these homemade air-fried delights, you’ll never go back. They offer a depth of flavor and a satisfying texture that truly elevates every bite.

The air fryer is an absolute game-changer for preparing a wide variety of bread-based dishes. Its ability to create perfect crispiness with minimal oil makes it ideal for more than just croutons. You might also enjoy perfecting your bread game with my other popular recipes, including Air Fryer Garlic Bread, Air Fryer Muffins, and Air Fryer Cornbread. Each offers a unique way to enjoy perfectly cooked bread products using the efficiency and convenience of your air fryer.

What Type of Bread to Use for Air Fryer Croutons

The foundation of a great crouton lies in the bread you choose. For truly exceptional homemade air fryer croutons, your bread selection can make all the difference in texture and flavor. While many types of bread can be used, some are definitely superior.

When opting for a robust and flavorful choice like sourdough bread, stale bread consistently yields the best results. The slight dryness helps the bread achieve that perfect crispiness without becoming too hard or oily. I understand that having leftover sourdough on hand isn’t an everyday occurrence for everyone. However, if you do find yourself with a few days-old sourdough baguette or loaf, it’s the ideal candidate for transforming into gourmet croutons. To achieve this, I often purchase a fresh loaf, keep it sealed at room temperature for a couple of days, and then use it specifically for making these delicious salad toppers. This brief period of aging allows the bread to firm up slightly, preventing it from collapsing under the oil and seasonings during the air frying process.

For those seeking a healthier, flourless, or clean-eating option, Ezekiel bread is an outstanding choice. Made from sprouted grains, Ezekiel bread offers a rich nutrient profile and a satisfying texture that crisps beautifully in the air fryer. Its slightly denser structure holds up wonderfully, creating hearty croutons that add substance to your meals. Similarly, whole grain bread also performs exceptionally well, providing a nuttier flavor and a good crunch. Don’t worry if you only have common sandwich bread on hand; both fresh and slightly stale sandwich bread varieties work perfectly fine, offering a lighter, classic crouton experience. Experiment with different types to find your personal favorite, considering how each bread’s unique characteristics contribute to the final taste and texture of your croutons.

Why Choose Air Frying for Croutons?

The air fryer has revolutionized how we prepare many foods, and croutons are no exception. Opting for the air fryer over traditional oven baking or stovetop frying offers several distinct advantages that make it the superior choice for achieving perfect croutons every time. Firstly, an air fryer uses significantly less oil, making your homemade croutons a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions, while still delivering an incredibly crispy texture. The circulating hot air ensures that each bread cube is evenly toasted and golden brown, without the need for constant stirring or flipping that you might encounter with other methods. This even cooking also means fewer burnt edges and more consistently delicious results.

Secondly, convenience and speed are major factors. Air fryers preheat much faster than conventional ovens, and the cooking time for croutons is remarkably short, often under 15 minutes. This makes homemade croutons a viable option even on busy weeknights, transforming leftover bread into a gourmet topping in a flash. The compact size of most air fryers also means you’re not heating up your entire kitchen for a small batch, saving energy and keeping your space cooler. Finally, the clean-up is typically easier, with most air fryer baskets being non-stick and dishwasher-safe. For perfectly crispy, flavorful, and healthier croutons with minimal effort, the air fryer is undoubtedly the best tool for the job.

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Croutons: A Step-by-Step Guide

Crafting your own batch of delicious air fryer croutons is surprisingly simple and quick. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve that perfect golden crunch:

1. Select Your Bread: Begin by choosing the right bread for your croutons. As discussed, sourdough offers a classic, robust flavor, while Ezekiel bread provides a wholesome, healthy alternative. Standard sandwich bread or whole-grain varieties also work beautifully. Your choice will influence the final texture and taste of your croutons, so pick one that best suits your preference or what you have readily available.
2. Slice the Bread into Cubes: Using a sharp knife, slice your chosen bread into uniform ½-inch cubes. Consistency is key here; evenly sized cubes will ensure that all your croutons cook uniformly and achieve the same perfect crispness. If the cubes are too large, they might not become fully crunchy, and if they’re too small, they risk burning. For sourdough, a serrated bread knife can make this task much easier, cleanly cutting through the crust without tearing the soft interior.
3. Season Your Bread: Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle them generously with olive oil – this helps them crisp up and allows the seasonings to adhere. Then, sprinkle your chosen seasonings over the cubes. Classic choices include garlic powder, salt, and pepper, but feel free to get creative with Italian seasoning, dried herbs, or even a dash of smoked paprika. Toss the cubes thoroughly until each one is evenly coated with oil and spices. If the seasonings aren’t sticking well, a little extra olive oil can help create a better bind.
4. Prepare for Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 370 degrees Fahrenheit (185 degrees Celsius). While preheating isn’t always strictly necessary, it helps ensure a more consistent cooking temperature from the start, leading to better results. Arrange the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can steam the bread rather than crisp it. If you have a large batch, cook in multiple smaller batches for optimal air circulation and crispiness.
5. Air Fry to Golden Perfection: Place the basket into the preheated air fryer and cook for an initial 5 minutes. After this time, open the air fryer, give the basket a good shake, or use tongs to flip the croutons. This ensures even browning on all sides. Continue air frying for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and perfectly crispy. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes, as air fryers can cook quickly, and croutons can go from perfect to burnt in a blink.

Perfecting Air Fryer Crouton Cook Time

Achieving the ideal crispiness for your air fryer croutons largely depends on mastering the cooking time. For most air fryer models and bread types, the process typically involves an initial fry time followed by a shorter second phase. I recommend air frying your croutons for 5 minutes initially. This allows the bread to begin drying out and developing a foundational crispness.

After the first 5 minutes, it’s crucial to open the air fryer basket and give it a good shake. This simple action redistributes the croutons, exposing different sides to the circulating hot air and preventing any single side from burning while others remain soft. Following this shake, continue to fry for an additional 2-3 minutes. This final burst of heat is often all that’s needed to achieve that coveted golden-brown color and satisfying crunch. Always keep a close eye on your croutons during these last few minutes, as air fryers can vary in power, and different breads may crisp at slightly different rates. The goal is a uniform golden hue and a firm, crunchy texture throughout. Adjust the exact timing slightly based on your air fryer’s performance and your desired level of crispiness.

Optimal Air Fryer Temperature for Croutons

The secret to perfectly golden and crunchy air fryer croutons, without burning them, often lies in setting the right temperature. After extensive testing, I confidently recommend an air fryer temperature of 370 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 185 degrees Celsius) for most air fryer models. This temperature strikes the perfect balance, ensuring the bread cooks thoroughly and develops a deep, satisfying crispness on the outside, while retaining a hint of softness within, depending on the bread type and thickness of your cubes.

Cooking at 370 degrees F allows the hot air to circulate effectively, toasting the bread quickly and evenly without the risk of scorching the delicate seasonings or the bread itself. If the temperature is too high, the exterior might burn before the interior has a chance to fully crisp. If it’s too low, the croutons may dry out slowly and become overly hard, or they might not achieve that desirable golden finish. This consistent temperature, combined with the recommended cooking times and a mid-cook shake, will ensure you achieve perfectly crisp and delicious homemade croutons every time. Feel free to adjust by 10-15 degrees if your air fryer tends to run hotter or cooler than average.

Storing Your Homemade Croutons

Once your homemade air fryer croutons have cooled completely, proper storage is essential to maintain their delightful crispness and extend their shelf life. The key is to protect them from moisture and air, which can quickly turn them stale and soft. Always ensure the croutons are at room temperature before storing them; putting warm croutons into an airtight container will create condensation, leading to soggy results.

The best way to store your croutons is in sealable plastic bags or, even better, in airtight containers. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids are an excellent option, as they provide a good seal and also look appealing on your pantry shelf. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. A pantry or cupboard is ideal. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator unless specifically noted, as the moisture in the fridge can also cause them to soften prematurely. Properly stored, your homemade croutons will be ready to add a gourmet touch to your meals whenever you desire.

How Long Do Homemade Croutons Last?

The shelf life of your homemade air fryer croutons varies depending on how and where they are stored, but with proper care, you can enjoy them for a significant period:

• At Room Temperature: When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, your croutons will retain their crispiness and fresh flavor for up to 3 days. This is perfect for everyday use and ensuring they’re always ready for your next meal.
• In the Refrigerator: If you need them to last a bit longer, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator can extend their freshness to 5-7 days. While the cold environment helps prevent spoilage, be aware that the refrigerator’s humidity can sometimes slightly soften their texture over time.
• In the Freezer: For longer-term storage, homemade croutons freeze exceptionally well! Place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They will last for several weeks, or even up to 2-3 months, without losing much of their quality. When you’re ready to use them, you can simply toss them directly into soups or salads, or quickly re-crisp them in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) if you want them warm and extra crunchy.

Always ensure they are completely cool before storing to prevent condensation, which leads to soggy croutons.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Croutons

Once you’ve made a batch of these glorious air fryer croutons, you’ll find countless ways to incorporate their delightful crunch and flavor into your meals. They’re not just for salads! While they undeniably elevate any green salad, consider them a versatile culinary accent that can enhance a variety of dishes. Here are some fantastic salad recipes that pair perfectly with your freshly made croutons:

• Avocado Egg Salad Cups: Add a textural contrast to the creamy egg salad.
• Healthy Breakfast Salad: Give your morning greens an unexpected, savory crunch.
• Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad: Toss them in just before serving for an extra layer of flavor and crispiness.
• Fried Chicken Salad: Complement the fried chicken with perfectly seasoned bread bites.
• Green Goddess Cobb Salad: Enhance the vibrant flavors and textures of this classic.

Beyond salads, these croutons are excellent as a topping for creamy tomato soup, French onion soup, or even a simple vegetable puree. They can also be crushed and used as a crispy coating for baked chicken or fish, or simply enjoyed as a standalone snack. Get creative and let their irresistible crunch transform your favorite meals!

More Delicious Air Fryer Recipes to Try

The air fryer is a remarkably versatile appliance, capable of much more than just crispy croutons. If you’ve enjoyed the ease and delicious results of this recipe, you’ll be thrilled to explore other incredible dishes you can make. From savory snacks to hearty mains, the air fryer consistently delivers fantastic results with less oil and less fuss. Here are some other must-try air fryer recipes to expand your culinary repertoire:

• Air Fryer Tortilla Chips
• Air Fryer French Fries
• Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
• Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
• Air Fryer Pickles
• Air Fryer Kale Chips
• Air Fryer Grilled Cheese
• Air Fryer Ravioli

Don’t forget to enhance these and many other dishes with my custom seasoning blends: try my Homemade Ranch Seasoning for a tangy kick or my Homemade BBQ Seasoning for a smoky, savory depth.

Easy Air Fryer Croutons: The Full Recipe

This quick and easy recipe guides you through making homemade, crispy salad toppers using a sourdough baguette or a healthy Ezekiel bread option. Simply coat your bread with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite seasonings, then air fry to golden perfection!

Save this recipe for future use and easy access!

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: air fryer croutons, homemade croutons, crispy croutons, sourdough croutons, Ezekiel croutons

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 13 minutes

Servings: 8

Calories: 85kcal

Author: Brandi Crawford

Ingredients

Sourdough Baguette Croutons

• 2 cups sliced sourdough bread (approximately ¾ of a loaf), sliced into ½-inch cubes. Any size you prefer is fine, but for maximum crunch, I often slice mine into 1-inch cubes. Stale leftover bread works best as it dries out more uniformly.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ tablespoon Everything But the Bagel Seasoning (or your favorite seasoning blend like Italian herbs or garlic & herb blend)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Ezekiel Bread or Sandwich Bread Croutons

• 4 slices Ezekiel Bread or regular sandwich bread, sliced into ½-inch cubes. Again, adjust size to your preference.
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Other Great Crouton Spices to Experiment With

• Dried Rosemary
• Smoked Paprika
• Onion Powder
• Italian Seasoning
• Cayenne Pepper (for a spicy kick)
• Parmesan Cheese (add after cooking for best results)
• Dried Thyme or Oregano

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: If you are using a crusty sourdough bread loaf, it’s highly recommended to use a serrated bread knife to cleanly slice the bread. This will prevent crushing the loaf and ensure neat, uniform cubes. Carefully slice your chosen bread into ½-inch cubes (or 1-inch if you prefer larger croutons).
2. Season the Bread Cubes: Place the cubed bread into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle or spray generously with olive oil, ensuring all pieces get coated. Then, sprinkle your chosen seasonings over the bread. Toss the bread cubes thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of oil and spices. If you find the seasonings aren’t adhering well, add a tiny bit more olive oil and toss again until everything is evenly coated.
3. Load the Air Fryer: Place the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the air fryer basket. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the basket. Overfilling can lead to uneven cooking and steamy, rather than crispy, croutons. If necessary, cook in multiple batches.
4. Initial Air Fry: Air fry the croutons for 5 minutes at 370 degrees Fahrenheit (185°C). This initial cooking period starts the crisping process and begins to dry out the bread.
5. Shake and Continue Frying: After the first 5 minutes, carefully open the air fryer basket. Give the croutons a good shake or use tongs to flip them, ensuring all sides are exposed to the hot air. Close the air fryer and continue to air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and have reached your desired level of crispness. Watch them closely during this final stage to prevent burning.

Video Guide

Watch the detailed video below to see each step of making these delicious air fryer croutons in action!

Click here to view the recipe video.

Notes & Tips for Perfect Croutons

Feel free to get creative with your bread and spice selection! Beyond sourdough and Ezekiel, you can experiment with many other bread types for your croutons. Consider using Texas Toast for a buttery, thicker crouton, asiago cheese loaves for a savory kick, or even ciabatta or French bread for a rustic texture. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to use whatever bread you have on hand or what inspires you!

Remember, when using sourdough or other artisanal breads, stale bread will always work best for croutons. The drier texture helps them crisp up beautifully without becoming too oily. If you don’t typically have stale bread, simply let a fresh loaf sit sealed at room temperature for a couple of days to achieve the ideal consistency.

For those prioritizing a healthier choice, Ezekiel bread remains an excellent option. Its flourless, sprouted grain composition makes for a nutrient-dense and satisfying crouton. Whole grain sandwich bread also provides a good compromise between health and convenience, and it performs wonderfully whether fresh or slightly stale. Experiment with different bread types to discover your favorite texture and flavor combination for air fryer croutons!

Recipe Tools Used in this Recipe

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• Cosori Air Fryer: My go-to appliance for quick and crispy results.
• Air Fryer Oil Spray Bottle: Ensures an even and light coating of olive oil.
• Air Fryer Parchment Paper: Makes clean-up a breeze and prevents sticking.
• Serrated Knife: Essential for cleanly slicing crusty bread like sourdough.
• Large Mixing Bowl: For easily tossing bread with oil and seasonings.
• Measuring Spoons: For accurate seasoning measurements.
• Tongs: To easily shake and flip croutons during cooking.

Nutrition (Displayed with Net Carbs)

Serving: 0.25 cup | Calories: 85kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g

Nutrition data provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for a given recipe, you should calculate it with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.