Air Fryer Croutons Golden (Print Version)
Crispy bread cubes tossed with olive oil and herbs, air fried for a golden, crunchy finish—ideal for salads and soup.
# Ingredients:
→ Crouton Base
01 -
3 cups bread, crusts removed and cut into 1/3-3/4 inch cubes
→ Seasoning
02 -
1 to 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
03 -
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
04 -
2 twists freshly ground black pepper
05 -
1/2 teaspoon dried herbs, such as Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence
06 -
1/4 teaspoon ground spices, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika
# Steps:
01 -
Slice the bread and remove the crust using a serrated knife. Cut the bread into uniform cubes between 1/3 inch and 3/4 inch for even browning.
02 -
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes to ensure rapid and even crisping.
03 -
Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, add salt, black pepper, dried herbs, and preferred spices. Toss to coat all surfaces evenly.
04 -
Arrange seasoned bread cubes in the air fryer basket. The cubes may overlap slightly without impacting the result.
05 -
Set air fryer to 400°F and cook for 5 minutes. Shake the basket once after 3 minutes to promote even cooking. If a crunchier texture is desired, continue air frying in 2-minute increments, shaking the basket each time, until golden and crisp.
06 -
Allow croutons to cool briefly before using. Serve atop salads or soups as desired.
# Notes:
01 -
For best texture, use bread that is a day or two old to absorb seasoning without becoming soggy.