Name: Air Fryer Croutons
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Ingredients: 4 cups bread cubes ( (any type)); 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

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Craving that irresistible crunch in your salads or soups? These Air Fryer Croutons are the perfect way to level up your meals—crispy, golden, and full of flavor with just a handful of ingredients!

In this post, you’ll learn how to make the easiest homemade croutons in your air fryer using fresh or stale bread, and seasonings you already have. Whether you’re topping off a Caesar salad or just want a crunchy snack, these croutons will never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love Making Croutons in the Air Fryer

Forget store-bought croutons that taste bland or overly salty. Here’s why air fryer croutons are a game-changer:

Quick cooking – Ready in under 10 minutes.
Customizable flavors – Garlic, herbs, cheese, spicy, you name it.
No oven needed – No heating up the kitchen.
Less oil – A light spritz is all it takes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You probably already have everything in your kitchen to make these tasty croutons:

Bread – French, sourdough, ciabatta, whole wheat, or even gluten-free.
Olive oil or melted butter – For that golden crisp.
Seasonings – Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper.
Optional – Grated parmesan, smoked paprika, chili flakes, or nutritional yeast.

Pro Tip: This is a great way to use up stale bread that’s too tough for sandwiches but perfect for crisping up.

Best Bread for Air Fryer Croutons

Any bread will work, but some types give better results than others:

French bread or baguette – For classic crunch.
Sourdough – Adds a tangy flavor.
Ciabatta – Has a light, airy texture.
Whole wheat – A healthier alternative.
Gluten-free bread – Great for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Stale bread actually works best—it holds its shape and crisps beautifully in the air fryer.

How to Make Air Fryer Croutons (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Cut the Bread

Slice your bread into bite-sized cubes. About ¾-inch pieces work great. Try to keep them uniform for even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Bread

Place the bread cubes in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss until well coated.

Step 3: Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spread the bread cubes in a single layer in the basket (don’t overcrowd!). Cook for 5–8 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Step 4: Cool & Serve

Once golden and crisp, remove from the air fryer and let them cool completely. They’ll get even crunchier as they sit.

Flavor Variations to Try

Get creative with your seasonings! Here are some tasty ideas:

Garlic Parmesan Croutons – Add grated parmesan before air frying.
Spicy Cajun Croutons – Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning or paprika.
Cheesy Vegan Croutons – Toss with nutritional yeast and herbs.
Cinnamon Sugar Croutons – For sweet soups or snacks.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Croutons

Use stale bread – Less moisture means more crunch.
Don’t overcrowd the basket – Cook in batches if needed.
Shake the basket halfway – Ensures even browning.
Watch closely near the end – Croutons can go from golden to burnt fast.

How to Use Homemade Croutons

Your crispy air fryer croutons aren’t just for Caesar salad! Try them in:

Tomato soup
Butternut squash soup
Greek salad
Casseroles or baked pasta
Snack bowls with nuts and seeds

They even make a great topping for Air Fryer Egg Toast—adding crunch to soft eggs and toast is an absolute win!

Add Croutons to Air Fryer Egg Toast (Internal Link)

Air Fryer Egg Toast + Croutons = Flavor Bomb!

If you haven’t tried Air Fryer Egg Toast, you’re missing out. It’s a quick breakfast where bread, egg, and cheese are cooked all in one slice using an air fryer. Now imagine topping that egg toast with a few crunchy croutons! The texture contrast is incredible.

Want to try it? Check out our full post on how to make Air Fryer Egg Toast for breakfast.

How to Store Air Fryer Croutons

Let them cool completely before storing.
Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature.
Lasts up to 7 days on the counter.
You can also freeze croutons in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the air fryer to crisp them back up.

FAQs About Air Fryer Croutons

Can I make croutons without oil?

Yes, but they won’t be as golden or flavorful. A light spritz of oil adds great texture.

Why are my croutons chewy?

They may not have cooked long enough, or your bread was too fresh. Try slicing smaller or using stale bread.

Can I use flavored or sweet bread?

Absolutely! Try cinnamon raisin for sweet croutons or garlic bread for extra flavor.

Are air fryer croutons gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free bread, then yes! Just make sure your seasonings are also gluten-free.