Air Fryer Croutons (BEST texture!)

close up shot of air fryer croutons in bowl

5 from 9 votes

Air fryer croutons are the best of both worlds: crispy on the outside, yet slightly soft on the inside. Seasoned with a simple blend of spices, they are ready in under 10 minutes!

Prep Time2

Cook Time5

Total Time7

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Diet: Diabetic

Servings: people

Calories: 72kcal

Author: Denise Bustard

Equipment

Ingredients

4 cups sourdough bread cut in 1-1 ½ inches; see note 1
2 tablespoons olive oil note 2
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

Prepare bread- Cut your bread into 1 to 1 ½ inch cubes. Day old bread is easier to cut, if you have fresh bread, you may want to tear it using your hands. You'll need 4 cups of bread cubes for this recipe, which is roughly half of a boule of sourdough.
Season bread cubes- Toss the bread cubes in olive oil until evenly coated, then add the garlic powder, onion powder and salt. Toss well.
Cook- Pre-heat your air fryer at 400°F/200°C for at least 5 minutes. Add the bread cubes to the basket or tray, and cook for 3-5 minutes*, shaking occasionally. Depending on how closely together your breadcrumbs are positioned, you may need to cook for up to 7-8 minutes.
*if you are using an air fryer oven, place the croutons on the lowest tray.
Serve- Croutons are ready when they are golden brown all over (as shown above). Cool slightly before adding to your salad.

Video

Notes

1- day old bread cuts easier than fresh, but I don't recommend completely stale bread. You can use sourdough, french bread, baguette, or any sturdy loaf

2- avocado oil would be another good option

Storage

Store in an open container (uncovered) at room temperature for up to 2 weeks; if you live in a humid environment, you will want to store in a bag or air tight container.
It may be possible to freeze them, though I have not tried. If you find them soggy upon thawing, toss them back in the air fryer to crisp up!

Nutrition