Air Fryer French Toast Recipe

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I’m always on the hunt for breakfast recipes that feel indulgent but don’t take all morning to whip up, and this air fryer French toast recipe has quickly become a staple in my kitchen.

There’s just something about golden, crispy slices of bread soaked in a sweet, custardy mixture that makes mornings feel special.

Using the air fryer cuts down on mess and time, giving you perfectly cooked French toast with that ideal balance of crisp edges and soft, fluffy centers.

I love how this recipe comes together with pantry staples, and it’s versatile enough to dress up for a weekend brunch or keep simple for a quick weekday treat.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this air fryer French toast is sure to bring smiles to the table.

Read Also: Healthy Waffle Recipe

Air Fryer French Toast Recipe – A Must-Try for French Toast Fans

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer French Toast Recipe

This air fryer French toast recipe is a game plan for busy mornings or leisurely brunches.

It’s quick, requiring less than 20 minutes from start to finish, and the air fryer ensures even cooking without the hassle of flipping slices in a skillet.

The result is a delightful combination of crispy, golden exteriors and soft, custardy interiors, all with minimal oil.

Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—whether you’re a fan of classic cinnamon and vanilla or want to experiment with fun toppings like fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Time-Saver: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy mornings.
Minimal Cleanup: No greasy skillets or splattered stovetops.
Customizable: Add your favorite spices, extracts, or toppings to make it your own.
Kid-Friendly: Sweet and soft, it’s a hit with picky eaters.
Healthier Option: Uses less oil than traditional pan-fried French toast.

Read Also: Air Fryer Pancake Recipe

Ingredients

You likely have most of what you need for this air fryer French toast recipe already in your kitchen.

Simple ingredients come together to create a comforting, flavorful breakfast that feels like a treat.

4 slices of thick-cut brioche bread (or challah, about 1-inch/2.5 cm thick)
2 large eggs
½ cup (120 ml) whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
1 tablespoon (15 g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Butter or cooking spray (for greasing the air fryer basket)
Optional: Maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries for serving

Read Also: Air Fryer Banana Bread Recipe

Kitchen Equipment Needed

This recipe comes together with just a few basic tools, most of which you probably already own.

The star of the show is, of course, the air fryer, which makes this French toast a breeze to cook.

Air fryer (4-quart/3.8-liter or larger recommended)
Shallow dish (for soaking the bread)
Whisk or fork (for mixing the custard)
Tongs (for handling hot bread)
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board (optional, for slicing bread if not pre-sliced)
Spatula (for serving)

Air Fryer French Toast Recipe – Best French Toast Recipes with a Twist

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Air Fryer French Toast

Follow these detailed steps to create perfectly crispy and custardy air fryer French toast.

Each step is broken down to make the process foolproof, even if you’re new to cooking or using an air fryer.

1. Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a shallow dish, crack 2 large eggs and whisk them until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
Add ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk, 1 tablespoon (15 g) granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Whisk the mixture thoroughly until the sugar dissolves and the spices are evenly distributed. The custard should be smooth and slightly frothy.
Set the dish aside near your workspace for easy access during soaking.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Allow it to preheat for 3–5 minutes, depending on your model. Most air fryers have a preheat setting, but if yours doesn’t, simply run it empty at the set temperature.
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

3. Soak the Bread

Place 1–2 slices of brioche bread in the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are fully submerged.
Let each slice soak for 20–30 seconds per side. The bread should absorb the custard but not become soggy or fall apart.
Gently lift the soaked bread with tongs and let excess custard drip back into the dish.
Place the soaked slices on a plate while you prepare the remaining slices.

4. Arrange in the Air Fryer

Place the soaked bread slices in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you may need to cook in batches.
If necessary, trim the bread slices slightly to fit comfortably in the basket without crowding.
Ensure there’s enough space between slices for air circulation, which helps achieve even browning.

5. Cook the French Toast

Air fry the bread slices at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through with tongs.
Check for doneness: the French toast should be golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside, with a soft, custardy center.
If the toast isn’t golden enough, air fry for an additional 1–2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

6. Serve Immediately

Remove the French toast from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula.
Transfer to a plate and serve warm with your choice of toppings, such as maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries.

Read Also: Air Fryer Morning Frittata Recipe

Tips for The Best Air Fryer French Toast

To make your air fryer French toast truly shine, a few simple tricks can elevate the flavor and texture.

These tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure every bite is delicious.

Use day-old or slightly stale brioche bread to absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
Don’t oversoak the bread; 20–30 seconds per side is enough to prevent it from falling apart.
Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
Flip the slices halfway through cooking to achieve uniform browning on both sides.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for a warm, spiced flavor.
Use heavy cream instead of whole milk for an extra-rich texture.
Brush the air fryer basket with melted butter instead of cooking spray for a buttery flavor.

Read Also: Healthy Banana Bread Recipe

Serving Suggestions

This air fryer French toast is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet breakfast at home, these ideas will make your meal feel complete and satisfying.

Drizzle with maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for classic sweetness.
Top with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor.
Serve alongside Deviled Eggs for a savory brunch balance.
Pair with Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint for a refreshing, summery side.
Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a decadent touch.
Enjoy with a hot cup of Pumpkin Spice Latte for a cozy fall vibe.

Variations of Air Fryer French Toast

This air fryer French toast recipe is a blank canvas for creativity. Switch up the flavors or ingredients to suit your mood or dietary needs with these fun variations.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Swirl cream cheese and brown sugar into the custard for a cinnamon roll-inspired twist.
Stuffed French Toast: Spread peanut butter or jam between two slices before soaking.
Vegan French Toast: Use plant-based milk and flax eggs instead of dairy.
Gluten-Free French Toast: Swap brioche bread for gluten-free bread.
Pumpkin Spice French Toast: Add 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice to the custard.
Challah French Toast: Use challah bread for an extra-rich, slightly sweet base.

Read Also: Vegan Fall Recipes

Storage and Reheating

Leftover air fryer French toast can be stored and reheated for a quick breakfast later.

Proper storage keeps it fresh, and reheating in the air fryer restores its crispiness.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, place cooled French toast in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 1 month.
To reheat, place refrigerated or thawed French toast in the air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for 2–3 minutes, flipping halfway.
Alternatively, reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Avoid microwaving, as it can make the toast soggy.
If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Facts

This air fryer French toast recipe is a balanced treat, offering a mix of protein, carbs, and fats.

Below is the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings, without toppings).

Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 8 g
Fat: 9 g (4 g saturated)
Carbohydrates: 28 g (6 g sugars)
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: 300 mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on bread type and toppings used.

Read Also: Healthy Egg Salad Recipe

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

This air fryer French toast recipe uses simple ingredients that offer surprising health benefits.

From protein-packed eggs to fiber-rich bread, each component contributes to a nourishing breakfast.

Eggs: Packed with high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline, which supports brain health.
Whole Milk: Provides calcium and vitamin D for strong bones and teeth.
Brioche Bread: Offers carbohydrates for energy, especially when made with whole grains.
Cinnamon: Contains antioxidants and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor without extra calories and may have calming properties.

Read Also: Healthy Pancake Recipe

FAQs About Air Fryer French Toast

1. Can I use regular sandwich bread for this recipe?

Yes, but sandwich bread is thinner and may become soggy. Opt for thicker slices like brioche or challah for the best texture. If using sandwich bread, reduce soaking time to 10–15 seconds per side.

2. How do I prevent the French toast from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly grease the basket with butter or cooking spray before cooking. You can also line the basket with parchment paper designed for air fryers, ensuring there’s enough airflow.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap whole milk for almond milk or oat milk, and use a dairy-free bread. Replace butter with cooking spray or a plant-based alternative.

4. What’s the best air fryer temperature for French toast?

350°F (175°C) works best for even cooking and a crispy exterior. If your air fryer runs hot, check at 6 minutes to avoid overcooking.

5. Can I prepare the custard mixture in advance?

Yes, you can whisk the custard and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before using to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Read Also: Air Fryer Morning Frittata Recipe