Waking up to the golden, fluffy goodness of Air Fryer French Toast is like a warm hug on a busy morning. The first whiff of cinnamon and vanilla fills the kitchen, weaving a delightful promise of a delicious start to the day. I discovered this quick and easy recipe when I was searching for ways to transform my standard breakfast routine into something truly special—without the hassle.
What I love most is that it takes less than 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for those days when time feels like it’s slipping through my fingers. Using simple ingredients like brioche bread and a mix of eggs, milk, and spices, this dish offers a satisfying and indulgent experience without the fuss. Whether you enjoy it drizzled with maple syrup, adorned with fresh fruit, or even topped with a dollop of whipped cream, this Air Fryer French Toast is sure to become a cherished part of your breakfast repertoire. Let’s dive in and make mornings a little sweeter!
Why will you adore Air Fryer French Toast?
Quick: This recipe is a superhero for busy mornings, taking only 15 minutes from start to serve.
Fluffy Texture: Enjoy a delightful contrast with a golden crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.
Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll whip up a comforting breakfast without any stress.
Versatile: Whether you prefer classic toppings or creative variations, this dish can easily adapt to your taste preferences.
Kid-Friendly: Perfect for the whole family, even picky eaters will love digging into this delicious delight.
Make your mornings brighter with this delightful breakfast that will leave you feeling satisfied and ready to conquer the day!
Air Fryer French Toast Ingredients
For the Custard Mixture
- Egg – Provides structure; essential for binding the mixture together.
- Milk – Adds richness and moisture; feel free to use any milk or milk alternative you like.
- Cinnamon – Infuses warmth; adjust according to your flavor preference.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall taste; almond extract can be a nice twist.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness; modify to taste or swap for a sugar substitute if desired.
- Salt – A pinch balances the sweetness; it’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
For the Bread
- Brioche Bread – The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and soft texture; can substitute with challah or thick slices of white bread.
For Air Frying
- Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking; use butter spray for an extra burst of flavor.
Get ready to whip up this Air Fryer French Toast that will transform your breakfast routine!
How to Make Air Fryer French Toast
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Whisk Together
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, sugar, and salt until fully combined, creating a creamy custard mixture that will beautifully coat the bread. -
Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of brioche bread into the egg mixture, allowing each side to soak for about 10 seconds. This ensures the bread absorbs the flavors while remaining soft. -
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer and spray the basket generously with cooking spray. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and achieving a perfectly crispy toast. -
Arrange the Slices
Place the soaked bread slices in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Give each slice some space for even cooking and crispness. -
Cook to Perfection
Cook at 350°F for 5 minutes. Afterward, flip each piece and cook for an additional 4 minutes until golden brown and irresistibly crispy on the outside. -
Serve Warm
Serve warm with your choice of toppings, such as a drizzle of maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a decadent blueberry sauce for that perfect sweet touch.
Optional: Top with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra special treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer French Toast
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Preheat for Success: Always preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking. This helps achieve that perfect crispy golden exterior.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Place enough space between the bread slices in the air fryer for proper airflow. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy toast.
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Soak Time Matters: Allow each brioche slice to soak for about 10 seconds in the custard mixture. This guarantees a deliciously moist interior without becoming mushy.
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Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your Air Fryer French Toast as models vary. You might need to tweak the cooking time for your specific appliance.
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Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to personalize your custard mixture with extras like chocolate chips or nuts, adding delicious texture to your amazing breakfast!
Air Fryer French Toast Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity and make this dish your own! Each twist brings new flavors to the table.
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Whole Wheat Wonder: Swap brioche for whole wheat bread for a nutty flavor and added fiber.
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Chocolate Delight: Stir in mini chocolate chips into the egg mixture for a sweet and indulgent twist. Each bite will be a delightful surprise!
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Nutmeg Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the custard for a warm, spice-filled flavor that dances on your palate. Perfect for cozy mornings!
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Pumpkin Spice: Introduce pumpkin spice for a seasonal flair. It’s like a warm hug on a cool fall day.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for an added crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft bread.
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Coconut Cream: Replace milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist and subtle sweetness that brightens up your breakfast.
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Savory Spin: Add a sprinkle of cheese and herbs to the mixture for a savory take that contrasts beautifully with traditional sweet toppings.
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Fruit-Filled Joy: Top with a fresh fruit compote or sautéed apples for an extra layer of flavor and a fruity burst.
With these simple variations, you can turn your Air Fryer French Toast into a breakfast masterpiece every time!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer French Toast
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Fridge: Store any leftover Air Fryer French Toast in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This will help maintain its fluffy texture while ensuring it stays fresh.
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Freezer: If you want to keep your French toast longer, freeze it by wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To reheat, simply pop the slices in your air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes. This will make them warm and crispy again, just like when they were freshly made.
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Thawing: For frozen French toast, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or use the defrost function on your microwave for a quick option.
What to Serve with Air Fryer French Toast?
Elevate your breakfast experience with delicious accompaniments that complement the sweetness and warmth of your Air Fryer French Toast.
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Fresh Berries: Bursting with flavor, fresh strawberries or blueberries provide a bright contrast to the sweetness of the toast. Their natural juiciness brings a delightful freshness that makes each bite a treat.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy indulgence that takes your French toast to a dessert-like level. It’s the perfect finishing touch for those sweet mornings!
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Maple Syrup: A classic companion, the rich and robust flavor of pure maple syrup blissfully enhances the overall experience, creating that comforting balance of sweet and savory.
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Greek Yogurt: For a creamy, tangy twist, consider pairing your French toast with a scoop of Greek yogurt. It adds a nice protein boost and a delightful contrast to the rich flavors.
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Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Elevate the simple charm of your French toast with a light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. This adds a sweet crunch that perfectly complements the soft, fluffy insides.
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Coffee or Herbal Tea: Enjoy a warm cup alongside your Air Fryer French Toast. A rich coffee enhances the breakfast vibe, while a soothing herbal tea offers a gentle, relaxing balance.
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Sliced Bananas: Creamy and sweet, fresh banana slices add a deliciously fruity element that pairs beautifully with the French toast, making your breakfast more satisfying and nutritious.
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Nut Butter: Drizzling or spreading almond or peanut butter adds a delicious nutty flavor while boosting the nutritional value. It’s a delightful way to add extra richness.
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Eggs Your Way: For a heartier breakfast, serve a side of scrambled eggs or a fried egg to complement the French toast, creating a satisfying meal that will keep you full and fueled for the day!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer French Toast slices are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can whisk together the custard mixture—eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, sugar, and salt—up to 24 hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Similarly, you can soak the brioche bread slices in the mixture and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cover them completely to prevent any browning. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat the air fryer, spray the basket, and cook the soaked bread for about 5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 4 minutes. This way, you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy more family time!
Air Fryer French Toast Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best brioche bread for this recipe?
Look for brioche bread that is fresh with a rich golden color and soft texture. Avoid bread with dark spots or an overly dry appearance, as this may affect the final result. If brioche isn’t available, challah or thick slices of white bread work well as tasty alternatives.
What is the best way to store leftover Air Fryer French Toast?
To store, place any leftover French toast in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. This method will help preserve its fluffy texture while keeping it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in your air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F for the best results.
Can I freeze Air Fryer French Toast?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, they can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you want to reheat, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their warmth and crispiness.
What should I do if my French toast turns out soggy?
If your French toast ends up soggy, double-check your soaking time. Be sure to only dip the bread for about 10 seconds, allowing enough time for absorption without oversaturation. Additionally, ensure that the air fryer is preheated before cooking and avoid overcrowding the basket for proper airflow.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions related to eggs or dairy?
For a dairy-free alternative, you can use a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk in the custard mixture. If you need an egg substitute, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, left to sit for a few minutes until it thickens). This way, you can still enjoy this delicious Air Fryer French Toast while accommodating dietary needs!
Can I make gluten-free Air Fryer French Toast?
Of course! Simply swap the brioche bread for a gluten-free bread option that suits your taste. Many brands offer soft and delicious gluten-free breads that will work perfectly in this recipe, allowing everyone to enjoy this morning delight!
Air Fryer French Toast: A Morning Delight in Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together the egg, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, sugar, and salt until fully combined.
- Dip each slice of brioche bread into the egg mixture, soaking each side for about 10 seconds.
- Preheat the air fryer and spray the basket generously with cooking spray.
- Place the soaked bread slices in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook at 350°F for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 4 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with your choice of toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.