Toasting bread in an air fryer might sound unusual at first, but once you try it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner. Air Fryer Toast is one of the easiest and fastest ways to make golden, crispy slices—without a toaster or oven!
Whether you’re whipping up breakfast or craving a quick snack, your air fryer can toast bread evenly, with the perfect crunch every time. Plus, no flipping, no waiting for the toaster, and no uneven browning. Just pop your bread in, set the timer, and enjoy.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about Air Fryer Toast—how to make it, what bread to use, and how to customize it with tasty toppings like garlic butter, cinnamon sugar, or creamy avocado.
If you’re looking to take your toast to the next level, try our Air Fryer Avocado Toast recipe.
Why Make Toast in an Air Fryer?
If you already own an air fryer, you’re probably obsessed with how versatile it is. From reheating pizza to baking cookies, it’s a game-changer. But did you know it can make toast too?
Here’s why air fryer toast is worth a try:
Even Browning
Unlike a toaster that may brown unevenly (especially with thick slices), an air fryer uses hot circulating air, which crisps up the bread from edge to edge.
No Need for a Toaster
Perfect for small kitchens, RVs, dorms, or anyone looking to simplify appliances. You can toast, bake, roast, and reheat—all in one appliance.
Great for Toppings
Want cheesy garlic toast or avocado toast? An air fryer makes it easier because toppings heat and melt beautifully.
Faster Than an Oven
Ovens take time to preheat. The air fryer heats up in seconds, saving you time—especially during busy mornings.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Air Fryer Toast
You don’t need much to make basic Air Fryer Toast, but the beauty is in the customization. Here’s a breakdown of what you can use:
Choose Your Bread:
- White Bread – Classic and soft, toasts evenly.
- Sourdough – Adds a tangy flavor and crunchy edges.
- Whole Wheat or Multigrain – Healthier and more filling.
- Gluten-Free Bread – Air fryers work great with gluten-free slices too.
- Brioche or Texas Toast – Thick slices that toast well and pair great with sweet toppings.
Optional Add-ons:
- Butter or Vegan Butter – For a golden, crispy edge.
- Olive Oil or Avocado Oil – A lighter alternative to butter.
- Cinnamon Sugar Mix – For a sweet morning treat.
- Garlic Powder or Fresh Garlic – For savory toast.
- Cheese, Avocado, Peanut Butter, or Jam – Endless topping options!
Tools & Equipment for Air Fryer Toast
You probably already have most of these at home, but here’s what’s helpful:
Air Fryer
Any model will work!Ninja Air Fryer
Make sure your air fryer has a basket or tray large enough to fit the bread without folding it.
Other Useful Tools
- Tongs – For safely removing hot toast
- Silicone brush – To add butter or oil evenly
- Parchment liner (optional) – If adding cheese or toppings that may melt and drip
How to Make Air Fryer Toast (Step-by-Step)
Making Air Fryer Toast is incredibly simple. You don’t need to preheat your air fryer, and the whole process takes less than 10 minutes. Here’s how to do it:
What You’ll Need:
- 1–4 slices of bread (depending on your air fryer size)
- Optional: butter, olive oil, or toppings
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Place bread in air fryer
Lay the slices flat in a single layer in your air fryer basket or tray. Don’t overlap them. - Set the temperature
Preheat is optional, but if you do, set it to 400°F (200°C) for 1–2 minutes. - Air fry
- Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes, depending on how crispy or browned you want your toast.
- Flip halfway if you want even browning on both sides (optional).
- Check and remove
Use tongs to remove the toast carefully. Add toppings immediately while it’s hot!
Flavor Variations for Air Fryer Toast
Now that you know how to make basic Air Fryer Toast, let’s talk about upgrades. These variations turn ordinary toast into something special.
Garlic Butter Toast
- Spread a thin layer of garlic butter before air frying.
- Optional: sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan.
- Great as a side for pasta or soup!
Cinnamon Sugar Toast
- Spread butter, then sprinkle with a mix of cinnamon and sugar.
- Air fry for 3–4 minutes until crispy and caramelized.
- Feels like dessert for breakfast!
Avocado Toast (After Toasting)
- After air frying, spread mashed avocado.
- Add salt, pepper, chili flakes, or a poached egg.
- Try a squeeze of lemon or Everything Bagel seasoning!
Sweet Jam or Peanut Butter Toast
- Toast the bread first, then spread jam, nut butter, or honey.
- For extra flair, add banana slices or chia seeds.
Can You Toast Frozen Bread in an Air Fryer?
Yes! You can make Air Fryer Toast straight from the freezer—no thawing required.
How to Do It:
- Place frozen slices in a single layer.
- Set air fryer to 400°F.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway if needed.
- Add toppings while hot.
Frozen bread might take 1–2 minutes longer than fresh slices but turns out just as crispy.
Bonus: Great for busy mornings or using up freezer stash.
Expert Tips for the Best Air Fryer Toast
Whether you like your toast lightly golden or extra crispy, these simple tips can help you get it just right every time:
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Toast slices need space for air to circulate. Overlapping them can lead to uneven browning.
Choose the Right Bread Thickness
Thicker slices like Texas toast or sourdough may need more time. Thin white or sandwich bread toasts faster.
Add Butter After or Before (Depending on Result)
- For crispy, browned edges: butter before toasting.
- For soft, melt-in toast: butter after air frying.
Keep an Eye on First Batch
Air fryer models vary slightly. Watch the first batch to find your perfect time and temperature combo.
Flip for Even Color (Optional)
It’s not necessary, but flipping halfway can help get perfect browning on both sides—especially with toppings.
How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Toast
Fresh toast is always best, but if you need to store or reheat leftovers, here’s how:
Storing Toast
- Room Temp: Wrap in foil or airtight container for up to 24 hours.
- Fridge: Not recommended (may get soggy).
- Freezer: Freeze plain toast slices for up to 1 month.
Reheating Toast in the Air Fryer
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F
- Heat toast for 1–2 minutes
- Works well for reviving leftover toast or warming up pre-toasted frozen slices
Avoid the microwave – it will make toast soft and rubbery instead of crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Toast
Let’s answer the most common questions people ask about making Air Fryer Toast at home.
Can I Toast a Bagel in the Air Fryer?
Yes! Slice the bagel in half and place cut-side up in the air fryer. Toast at 370°F for 4–5 minutes. Works for English muffins too!
Is Air Fryer Toast Healthier?
It can be! You control the amount of oil or butter, and there’s no need for excess fat. Pair it with nutrient-rich toppings like avocado, nut butter, or eggs for a balanced meal.
Does Air Fryer Toast Taste Different?
Slightly! It’s a bit crispier than toaster toast and has a warm, toasted flavor that feels closer to oven-baked.
Can I Make French Toast in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely. Dip bread in egg mixture and air fry at 375°F for 7–8 minutes, flipping halfway. Great for weekend brunch!
You can also follow me on Instagram, and Pinterest for more easy & air fryer baking recipes.

Air Fryer Toast
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1–4 slices of bread (white, wheat, sourdough, etc.)
- butter, olive oil, garlic powder, cinnamon sugar, or toppings of choice
Instructions
- Place bread slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Flip halfway through for even browning (optional).
- Remove using tongs and add toppings as desired.
Leave a Reply