Crispy & Golden Air Fryer Croutons Recipe (Homemade & Easy!)

You can use any type of bread: white, sourdough, wheat, French, brioche, or even gluten-free. The key is to use bread that’s slightly dry or at least a day old—it crisps better in the air fryer.

2. Olive Oil or Melted Butter – 4 tablespoons

This is what gives your croutons that golden-brown crunch. Olive oil offers a more savory, Mediterranean flavor, while butter brings a richer taste. You can even use garlic-infused oil for more depth.

3. Parsley Flakes – 1 teaspoon

Dried parsley adds a pop of color and a subtle herbaceous note. You can substitute with Italian seasoning, rosemary, or thyme.

4. Onion Powder – ½ teaspoon

This adds a mild sweetness and depth that balances the garlic and salt.

5. Garlic Powder – ½ teaspoon

Essential for that classic crouton flavor. For stronger garlic lovers, feel free to add a touch more.

6. Salt – ¼ teaspoon

A little salt brings out all the other flavors. Adjust based on your bread and seasoning preferences.

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

Follow these easy steps to turn plain bread into crispy, golden croutons in minutes:

Step 1: Cube the Bread

Cut the bread slices into small, even pieces—about ½ to 1-inch cubes. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly in the air fryer.

📝 Tip: Don’t worry about removing crusts unless you prefer extra-soft croutons. Crusts add rustic texture!

Step 2: Coat with Oil or Butter

Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over them, and toss until all pieces are evenly coated.

🍽️ Optional: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard to the oil for extra savory notes.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and parsley flakes. Toss again to coat every cube thoroughly with the seasonings.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Transfer the seasoned bread cubes to your air fryer basket. Spread them out in a single layer to prevent overcrowding.

Air Fry at 390°F (200°C) for 6–7 minutes
Shake or toss the croutons halfway through cooking for even crisping.

⏱️ Watch them closely after 5 minutes—air fryers can vary, and croutons can burn quickly!

Step 5: Cool & Store

Let the croutons cool on a plate or baking sheet. They’ll continue to crisp up slightly as they cool. Once cooled, store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

🥗 Ways to Use Your Air Fryer Croutons

These crunchy gems are way more versatile than you think:

🥬 Toss on Salads: Caesar, Cobb, Greek—any salad benefits from a crouton upgrade.
🍲 Sprinkle on Soups: Tomato soup, French onion, creamy broccoli—they all love croutons.
🧆 Serve with Dips: Use croutons as a crunchy dipper for hummus or spinach dip.
🍳 Top Breakfast Bowls: Croutons on a runny egg bowl? Game-changer.
🧀 Add to Charcuterie Boards: A fancy snack addition alongside cheese, olives, and meats.

🔄 Recipe Variations & Flavor Ideas

Croutons are a blank canvas. Here are some fun and flavorful ways to switch them up:

🧀 Cheesy Croutons

Add 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan or cheddar before air frying.

🌶️ Spicy Croutons

Mix in ¼ teaspoon chili powder, paprika, or crushed red pepper flakes.

🍋 Lemon-Herb Croutons

Add lemon zest and a sprinkle of thyme or Italian seasoning.

🌿 Garlic & Herb Croutons

Use garlic-infused oil and toss with Italian seasoning, rosemary, or basil.

🧈 Buttery Ranch Croutons

Use melted butter and sprinkle in ranch seasoning mix before air frying.

📦 How to Store & Freeze Croutons

Storing

Let croutons cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and crispy for about 5–7 days.

❄️ Avoid storing in the fridge—it introduces moisture and can make them soft.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze homemade croutons! Let them cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to re-crisp.

❓ FAQ: Air Fryer Croutons

Can I use gluten-free bread?

Yes! Gluten-free bread works well, though it may crisp a little faster, so watch your cooking time closely.

What’s the best bread for croutons?

Day-old or slightly stale white, sourdough, baguette, ciabatta, or rye bread all work beautifully. The sturdier the bread, the crunchier the croutons.

Can I make croutons without oil?

Technically yes, but they won’t be as crispy or flavorful. A light mist of oil can still help if you’re cutting calories.

How long do croutons last?

Stored properly, air fryer croutons last about 1 week at room temperature. Freeze for longer storage.

Can I use flavored oils?

Absolutely! Garlic-infused oil, herbed oil, or chili oil can add an extra flavor punch.

📋 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. ¼ of Recipe)

Calories: 150–180
Carbs: 15–20g
Fat: 10g
Protein: 3–4g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: Varies depending on bread and added salt

Note: Nutrition varies based on type of bread and oil/butter used.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Ready in under 10 minutes
✔️ Great way to use up old bread
✔️ Customizable with endless flavors
✔️ No oven needed—air fryer does it all
✔️ Adds gourmet crunch to any dish

📝 Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Croutons are one of those deceptively simple recipes that make a big impact. They transform basic dishes into something gourmet, add crunch where you least expect it, and take almost no time or effort. With just a few slices of bread and some pantry seasonings, you can have a jar full of golden, crispy croutons ready to elevate every meal.

Whether you’re tossing them on a Caesar salad, dunking them in soup, or just snacking straight from the container (no judgment!), these homemade air fryer croutons are bound to become a kitchen staple.

🔄 Recipe Recap: Air Fryer Croutons

Ingredients:

4 slices bread (cubed)
4 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
1 tsp parsley flakes
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt

Instructions:

Cube bread into ½–1 inch pieces.
Toss with oil, then mix in seasonings.
Spread in air fryer basket (single layer).
Air fry at 390°F for 6–7 minutes, tossing halfway.
Cool and store in an airtight container.

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🍞 Ingredients You’ll Need

1. Bread – 4 slices