After a long week of juggling responsibilities, all I crave is a comforting treat that feels indulgent but doesn’t come with a hefty prep time. Enter these Air Fryer French Toast Bites—my latest obsession! Imagine sinking your teeth into warm, pillowy bites of brioche or challah bread, infused with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and vanilla.
What I love most is how these little morsels transform a classic breakfast favorite into an effortless snack. Perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they satisfy my cravings any time of day without the guilt of conventional frying methods. Best of all, you can whip them up in just 18 minutes!
Whether you're looking to impress guests at brunch or simply treating yourself on a lazy weekend morning, these bites bring endless joy and flavor to the table. Let me show you how to turn simple ingredients into a delightful masterpiece that will keep everyone coming back for more!
Why You'll Love This Air Fryer French Toast Bites
- These Air Fryer French Toast Bites are incredibly easy to make, requiring only 10 minutes of prep and 8 minutes of cooking time.
- The delightful combination of brioche or challah bread with cinnamon and vanilla creates an irresistible flavor that pleases every palate.
- Their versatility makes them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, allowing you to enjoy them any time of day.
- Not only do they look visually appealing with their golden-brown crispiness, but they also make for a crowd-pleasing treat that will impress your family and friends.
Air Fryer French Toast Bites Ingredients
For the Bites
• Thick brioche or challah bread – The key to a delightful texture, providing a pillowy softness when soaked.
• Large eggs – Acts as a binding agent for the custard, ensuring each bite is rich and creamy.
• Whole milk – Adds a smooth richness; you can substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Ground cinnamon – Brings warmth and flavor; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
• Pure vanilla extract – Enhances the overall sweetness and aroma, making each bite irresistible.
• Granulated sugar – Balances the flavors and gives a hint of sweetness, though you can reduce or substitute with maple syrup for a healthier twist.
• Cooking spray – Helps achieve that perfect crispiness without all the added oil.
Optional Toppings
• Maple syrup – A classic pairing that complements the sweet bites beautifully.
• Powdered sugar – For a touch of elegance and extra sweetness, perfect for serving at brunch.
Dive into these Air Fryer French Toast Bites and let your kitchen fill with delicious aromas—your taste buds will thank you!
How to Make Air Fryer French Toast Bites
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Whisk Together: In a bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sugar until you see a frothy texture, melding all those delicious flavors together.
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Soak the Bread: Add the cubed bread to your egg mixture. Let it soak for about 5 minutes, turning the cubes halfway through so they absorb the custard evenly.
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Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 350°F (175°C). This step will ensure your bites are perfectly cooked and crispy.
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Arrange the Bites: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking, and arrange half of your soaked bread in a single layer for even cooking.
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Air Fry: Cook in the air fryer for 8 minutes, or until you achieve a golden-brown and crispy exterior. Flip the bites halfway through if needed for that perfect crunch.
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Serve Warm: Your delightful Air Fryer French Toast Bites are ready! Serve them warm with maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness.
Optional: Drizzle with honey for an extra layer of delicious flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Air Fryer French Toast Bites Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Air Fryer French Toast Bites to suit your taste!
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Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use almond milk instead for a delightful plant-based twist. Enjoy the same yummy flavors in a vegan-friendly way!
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Nutty: Add chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, to the soaking mixture for a crunchy surprise that enhances both flavor and texture. The added crunch will take these bites to a whole new level!
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Spiced Up: Mix in a dash of nutmeg or allspice for an aromatic twist that complements the cinnamon beautifully. Your taste buds will dance with delight at this extra layer of warmth.
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Berry Delight: Fold in fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries or strawberries, before soaking. They infuse a burst of fruity goodness, turning every bite into a little explosion of flavor.
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Chocolate Chip: Toss in mini chocolate chips for a sweet, rich surprise that your family will adore. These bites suddenly become an indulgent treat any time of the day!
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Maple Twist: Substitute maple syrup for the sugar in the soaking mixture, giving a rich, deep sweetness that amps up the breakfast feel. Your bites will taste like morning pancakes!
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Savory Option: Swap cinnamon for garlic powder, and use cheese cubes instead of bread for a savory snack. This unexpected twist will keep your palate guessing and delighted.
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Coconut Flavor: Sprinkle shredded coconut into the egg mixture and use coconut milk for an island-inspired treat that brings a tropical flair to your breakfast table. Each bite will whisk you away to paradise!
What to Serve with Air Fryer French Toast Bites?
Creating a well-rounded meal is as easy as pairing these delightful bites with the right companions.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like berries and melons elevate the dish, adding a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the French toast. Serve with a drizzle of honey for extra flair.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy Greek yogurt with granola and a hint of honey. This adds a satisfying crunch and indulgent creaminess that complements the fluffy bites.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A must-have classic, this sweet syrup brings out the flavors of cinnamon and brioche, creating a delightful harmony that enhances every bite.
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Scrambled Eggs with Herbs: Fluffy scrambled eggs seasoned with fresh herbs provide a savory counterpart, balancing the sweetness beautifully. Together, they form a fulfilling breakfast feast.
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Crispy Bacon or Sausage: The salty, savory notes of crispy bacon or sausage bring added depth to your plate, making it a satisfying, hearty meal. How delightful to indulge in various textures!
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Iced Coffee or Latte: Start your morning right with a chilled iced coffee or creamy latte. The caffeine kick complements the sweet bites, making for a perfect brunch pairing.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Feeling indulgent? A light drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate your bites to dessert level, creating a rich, decadent experience that's hard to resist.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this tropical addition adds a luscious, creamy touch that enhances the flavor profile of the French toast bites—perfect for a weekend treat!
Exploring these pairings will not only enhance your dining experience but also create a memorable meal that your family will adore.
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer French Toast Bites
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Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, they can stay at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container after they’re frozen. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To reheat from the fridge or freezer, simply air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through, keeping that delightful texture intact. Enjoy your Air Fryer French Toast Bites!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer French Toast Bites are perfect for busy mornings and can be prepped in advance to save you time! You can soak the bread cubes in the egg mixture up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just cover the bowl and refrigerate it for optimal flavor absorption. When you're ready to serve, simply preheat your air fryer and air fry the soaked bread cubes for about 8 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy. This method ensures your bites are just as delicious and fluffy, making your breakfast routine effortless and delightful!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect Air Fryer French Toast Bites, ensure you soak the bread cubes long enough to absorb the custard without becoming overly soggy.
- Use thick slices of brioche or challah for a soft texture that holds up well during cooking.
- When preheating the air fryer, confirm that it reaches the set temperature of 350°F to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Keep an eye on the bites and flip them halfway through the cooking time for an evenly golden finish.
Air Fryer French Toast Bites Recipe FAQs
What type of bread is best for Air Fryer French Toast Bites?
Absolutely! For the best results, I highly recommend using thick brioche or challah bread. These breads have the right amount of softness and structure to hold up when soaked in the custard mixture, making each bite pillowy and delightful.
How should I store Air Fryer French Toast Bites?
The bites are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to regain some of that crispy texture, I suggest reheating them in the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes at 350°F.
Can I freeze Air Fryer French Toast Bites?
Very! To freeze, lay the cooked bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months, making it easy to prep ahead!
What should I do if my French toast bites are soggy?
No worries! If they turn out soggy, it might be due to over-soaking the bread. For next time, try soaking the cubes for just 3-5 minutes instead of longer. If you discover them soggy after cooking, pop them back into the air fryer for an extra 2-3 minutes; this should help restore some crunch!
Can I make these bites dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the whole milk with almond, oat, or any plant-based milk you prefer. This way, you can still enjoy your Air Fryer French Toast Bites without any dairy, making them suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
Are Air Fryer French Toast Bites safe for pets?
It's essential to be cautious! The ingredients used in this recipe, like sugar and milk, aren’t suitable for pets, especially in significant amounts. It's best to keep these delightful bites for yourself and treat your furry friends to pet-friendly snacks instead!
Air Fryer French Toast Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sugar until you see a frothy texture.
- Add the cubed bread to your egg mixture and let it soak for about 5 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange half of your soaked bread.
- Cook in the air fryer for 8 minutes or until golden-brown, flipping halfway through if needed.
- Serve warm with maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
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