French toast is a beloved breakfast classic, but the messiness and time-consuming preparation can be a turn-off for many. Enter Air Fryer French Toast Bites — a quick, easy, and mess-free solution that gives you all the crispy edges and fluffy centers of traditional French toast, but with half the effort. No stovetop flipping, no greasy pans — just toss your bread cubes into the air fryer, and within minutes, you’ll have perfectly cooked bites that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
What Makes Air Fryer French Toast Bites Special?
Air fryer French toast bites take the best parts of French toast and simplify them without sacrificing flavor. Instead of dunking each piece of bread individually into a mixture, you simply mix up the ingredients, toss in the bread cubes, and air fry them to perfection. This approach not only saves you time but also minimizes the mess that usually comes with egg-dipping and flipping slices. The result? A breakfast or snack that’s quick to prepare and irresistible to eat.
But what makes these bites even more amazing is the versatility. You can customize them in countless ways, adjusting the ingredients, toppings, or flavorings to suit your preferences. Whether you’re making them for a lazy weekend breakfast, a special treat for the kids, or as a meal prep idea, air fryer French toast bites are a winner.
Ingredients for Air Fryer French Toast Bites
The ingredients for these French toast bites are simple and likely things you already have in your kitchen. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need for the perfect bite-sized French toast:
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Eggs – The foundation of French toast! Eggs help bind the mixture and give the bites their rich, custardy texture. You’ll typically need 2-3 large eggs for this recipe.
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Milk of Choice – Use your preferred milk, whether that’s dairy, almond, oat, or soy milk. The type of milk you choose won’t drastically alter the recipe, so feel free to use whatever you have on hand.
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Maple Syrup – A touch of maple syrup in the egg mixture adds subtle sweetness to the bites. While you can add sugar or another sweetener, maple syrup pairs wonderfully with the bread and gives it a classic French toast flavor.
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Salt – A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness, making sure the flavors aren’t too overpowering.
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Bread – The type of bread you use is key. The best French toast comes from heartier, denser bread. Think sourdough, challah, or French bread. For a lighter bite, opt for slightly older or day-old bread, as it soaks up the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
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Cinnamon (Optional) – While not strictly necessary, a little cinnamon sprinkled in will bring in that warm, comforting French toast flavor.
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Oil or Parchment Paper – A light spray of oil or a piece of parchment paper helps prevent the French toast bites from sticking to the air fryer basket.
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Toppings (Optional) – Classic toppings like powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh fruit (e.g., strawberries or bananas) can elevate the dish. Get creative with your toppings, from whipped cream to peanut butter or Nutella for a fun twist.
How to Make Air Fryer French Toast Bites
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Follow these steps to create your own crispy and fluffy air fryer French toast bites:
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Prepare the Egg Mixture Start by whisking together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, and salt in a large bowl. This mixture forms the base for the French toast, so make sure it’s well-combined. If you like, you can also add a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the flavor.
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Soak the Bread Cubes Cut your bread into bite-sized cubes (about 1-2 inches). Add the cubes to the egg mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Use a spoon or tongs to gently stir and press the cubes down, helping them soak up the egg mixture. Let the bread sit for a few minutes if necessary to absorb the mixture.
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Preheat the Air Fryer Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the bites cook evenly and ensures they become crispy on the outside.
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Arrange the Bread Cubes Lightly grease the air fryer basket with avocado oil or use parchment paper. Arrange the soaked bread cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this will prevent the air from circulating properly and result in uneven cooking. If you need to cook in batches, that’s okay!
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Air Fry the Bites Cook the French toast bites at 350°F for 7-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Keep an eye on the bites to ensure they’re cooking evenly and getting a golden-brown crust. The bites should be crispy on the outside but soft on the inside.
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Serve and Enjoy Once cooked, remove the bites from the air fryer and serve them immediately while they’re hot. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, or add fresh fruit for extra flavor. These little bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for later.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer French Toast Bites
Achieving the perfect air fryer French toast bites is all about getting the right balance of crispy edges and soft interiors. Here are some expert tips to ensure your bites come out just right every time:
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Use Stale Bread – If you have day-old or slightly stale bread, that’s perfect! Stale bread soaks up the egg mixture without turning mushy, giving you a more stable texture. If you only have fresh bread, let it sit out for an hour or so to dry out slightly.
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Don’t Skip the Cinnamon – While it’s optional, cinnamon adds a lot of flavor to the bites, making them taste even more like traditional French toast. Just be sure to sprinkle it in after the bread cubes have soaked up the egg mixture to avoid clumping.
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Preheat the Air Fryer – It’s important to preheat the air fryer before cooking to ensure even cooking. If you skip this step, you might end up with soggy bites rather than crispy ones.
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Shake the Basket – Halfway through cooking, shake the basket to ensure all sides of the bites get golden brown. If some cubes stick together, gently separate them to allow for even cooking.
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Experiment with Flavors – Don’t be afraid to get creative with the flavorings. Add a dash of vanilla extract, nutmeg, or even a bit of orange zest to the egg mixture for a twist on the classic French toast flavor.
Variations and Customization Ideas for Air Fryer French Toast Bites
One of the best things about air fryer French toast bites is how easily customizable they are. Whether you’re looking to experiment with different flavor profiles, cater to dietary restrictions, or simply mix things up for a fun twist, there are plenty of ways to make these bites your own.
1. Flavor Variations
If you want to give your French toast bites a unique flavor, consider these ideas:
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Pumpkin Spice French Toast Bites: Perfect for fall, add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the egg mixture for a seasonal twist. The warm, earthy spices work beautifully with the crispy bread.
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Cocoa French Toast Bites: For a chocolatey version, add a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the egg mixture. You can even sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top before air frying for extra indulgence.
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Nutmeg and Vanilla: Instead of just cinnamon, try a blend of nutmeg and vanilla extract to bring a deeper, spicier flavor to your bites. This combo adds a comforting, cozy feeling to the dish.
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Almond or Coconut Flavor: Add a teaspoon of almond extract or coconut milk to the egg mixture for a tropical vibe. Coconut flakes sprinkled over the top after cooking can also bring a nice crunch.
2. Bread Options
While traditional hearty white bread works best, don’t hesitate to experiment with other types of bread to achieve a different texture or flavor profile. Here are some options:
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Brioche: If you want an extra-rich, buttery flavor, brioche bread is a fantastic option. Its soft, airy texture makes for a tender bite.
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Cinnamon Raisin Bread: For those who enjoy a sweet twist, try cinnamon raisin bread. It adds extra flavor without the need for as much additional sweetener.
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Gluten-Free Bread: If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap the regular bread with a gluten-free variety. Just make sure the bread is slightly dry so it can absorb the egg mixture effectively.
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Whole Wheat or Multigrain Bread: For a slightly healthier option, whole wheat or multigrain bread adds a nutty, hearty flavor. You might need to adjust the milk amount if the bread is denser.
3. Toppings and Sauces
The toppings for your air fryer French toast bites can elevate the experience even more. Here are some ideas to try:
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy element that pairs wonderfully with the rich egg flavor.
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Fresh Fruit: Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries complement the sweetness of the French toast and add a burst of freshness.
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Yogurt: For a tangy contrast, serve the French toast bites with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or any yogurt of your choice.
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Nut Butters: Peanut butter or almond butter can give your bites an extra protein punch, while also providing a satisfying richness.
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Chocolate Sauce or Nutella: For a decadent treat, drizzle the bites with warm chocolate sauce or Nutella. This is perfect for a dessert-inspired breakfast or brunch.
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Syrup Variations: While maple syrup is the classic topping, you can experiment with flavored syrups, such as strawberry, blueberry, or even a salted caramel drizzle for added indulgence.
4. Savory Twist
While French toast is traditionally sweet, you can easily turn it into a savory dish. Here’s how:
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Herb and Cheese French Toast Bites: Instead of the sweet maple syrup, opt for some savory cheese like cheddar or parmesan. Add herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage to the egg mixture for a savory bite that’s perfect for brunch.
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Bacon or Sausage: Crumbled crispy bacon or cooked sausage bits can be added directly to the egg mixture. The savory and smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the crispy bites.
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Avocado and Tomato: After cooking, top your French toast bites with mashed avocado and sliced cherry tomatoes for a fresh, savory option.
Meal Prep with Air Fryer French Toast Bites
Air fryer French toast bites aren’t just quick and easy to make on the fly — they’re also a fantastic option for meal prep. Preparing them ahead of time can save you time on busy mornings or provide a healthy snack throughout the week.
How to Meal Prep Air Fryer French Toast Bites
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Prepare the Ingredients Ahead of Time
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Cut the bread into cubes ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container, so when you’re ready to cook, all you need to do is mix up the egg mixture.
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You can even whisk the eggs, milk, maple syrup, and seasonings the night before. Just keep the mixture in the fridge and use it within 24 hours.
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Cooking in Batches
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If you want to make a larger batch of French toast bites, you can cook them in multiple rounds. Simply arrange the soaked bread cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, cook, and repeat with the remaining bread cubes.
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Reheating Leftovers
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Leftovers can easily be reheated in the air fryer. Place the bites back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. This method helps preserve their crispy texture, unlike reheating in the microwave, which can make them soggy.
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Freezing French Toast Bites
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While freshly cooked French toast bites are best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze leftovers for later. Simply place the cooled French toast bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen bites to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to a month. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the air fryer for about 5-7 minutes at 350°F.
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Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
Although it’s best to enjoy French toast bites fresh, you can still freeze them for later use. If you plan to freeze them, here’s what you should know:
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Freezing Cooked French Toast Bites: As mentioned, freeze them in a single layer first to prevent them from sticking together. Once frozen, you can transfer them to a container or freezer bag for easy storage.
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Using Frozen Bread: If you don’t mind a slight texture change, you can use frozen bread for the recipe. Just let the bread thaw out for a few minutes before cubing it.
Air Fryer French Toast Bites Recipe Card
Ingredients:
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3 large eggs
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2–3 tablespoons milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
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1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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6 ounces hearty bread (such as sourdough, French bread, or brioche), cut into large cubes
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
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Avocado oil or parchment paper (for greasing the air fryer basket)
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Toppings (optional): Powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh fruit (strawberries, bananas, etc.)
Instructions:
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, and salt until well combined. If you like, add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
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Cut the bread into bite-sized cubes (about 1–2 inches) and add them to the egg mixture. Stir gently to coat all the bread cubes with the mixture. Allow the bread to soak for a few minutes, pressing down with a spoon or tongs if needed to ensure thorough soaking.
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Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
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Lightly grease the air fryer basket with avocado oil or line it with parchment paper. Arrange the soaked bread cubes in a single layer in the basket, making sure they aren’t crowded.
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Air fry at 350°F for 7-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The bites should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
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Serve immediately with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or your favorite toppings.
Notes:
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For best results, use slightly stale or day-old bread. It absorbs the egg mixture better than fresh bread, preventing sogginess.
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If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute some of the milk with cream or coconut milk.
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To make the bites even more flavorful, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract to the egg mixture.
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Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispness.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
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Calories: 357
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Fat: 10g
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Carbohydrates: 50g
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Protein: 17g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 18g
Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American
Servings: 2 large servings (can serve 4-6 as a side)
Yield: 1 batch (approximately 2 cups of bites)
Air Fryer French Toast Bites
Ingredients
- 1 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 ounces hearty bread (such as sourdough, French bread, or brioche), cut into large cubes
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Avocado oil or parchment paper (for greasing the air fryer basket)
- Toppings (optional) Powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh fruit (strawberries, bananas, etc.)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, and salt until well combined. If you like, add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Cut the bread into bite-sized cubes (about 1–2 inches) and add them to the egg mixture. Stir gently to coat all the bread cubes with the mixture. Allow the bread to soak for a few minutes, pressing down with a spoon or tongs if needed to ensure thorough soaking.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket with avocado oil or line it with parchment paper. Arrange the soaked bread cubes in a single layer in the basket, making sure they aren’t crowded.
- Air fry at 350°F for 7-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The bites should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve immediately with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or your favorite toppings.
Notes
- For best results, use slightly stale or day-old bread. It absorbs the egg mixture better than fresh bread, preventing sogginess.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute some of the milk with cream or coconut milk.
- To make the bites even more flavorful, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract to the egg mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispness
