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I make these air fryer French toast bites whenever I need a quick breakfast that's still a little fancy. Each piece comes out crisp and golden outside, soft and sweet inside. My kids always dive in so fast they grab them up before I can even pour the syrup.
The first time I whipped these up was the morning after a sleepover and they vanished instantly. Ever since, I rely on them anytime I want something fast that everyone will demolish.
Tasty Ingredients
- brown sugar: adds sweet depth with a hint of molasses, pick the soft kind for smooth mixing
- ground cinnamon: gives a cozy flavor, fresh cinnamon smells best
- vanilla extract: bumps up the aroma, pure vanilla works best for flavor
- kosher salt: a tiny bit wakes everything up and balances sweet
- milk: whole milk soaks bread best and is extra creamy, but any milk will do
- large eggs: eggs help the bites hold together and feel rich, fresher eggs are best
- bread cubes: sturdy white, challah, or something similar cut into inch-sized chunks for a fluffy bite
Simple How-To
- Get Cooking:
- Set the air fryer to three fifty, then let the bread cook for about eight to ten minutes. Shake the basket halfway so they get crispy all over. They're done when deep golden brown.
- Lay Out Bites:
- Spread your soaked bread cubes into the air fryer basket in one layer. Try to give them space so air moves easily and crisps every side.
- Get the Air Fryer Ready:
- Spray the basket or rack with a little nonstick spray so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze.
- Soak the Bread:
- Drop those bread cubes into your egg mix and gently toss them around so everything gets covered. Wait a minute and let the bread suck up all the flavors.
- Whisk the Egg Mix:
- Grab a large bowl and whisk eggs, vanilla, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt together until nice and smooth.
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I always reach for brown sugar because it brings that caramelly flavor you find at a cozy weekend brunch. My son once tossed chocolate chips on top and nothing beats seeing his grin when he remembers it!
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in a tight container in the fridge for up to three days and pop them back in the air fryer—they’ll crisp up again super fast. Freeze extras flat on a pan, then stack them in a bag. Grab a few as you need and breakfast is ready even on wild mornings.
Swap It Up
Try using brioche or thick whole wheat bread if you want more flavor or fiber. For non-dairy, unsweetened oat or almond milk both work. Coconut milk is a good allergy-friendly pick, and you can skip vanilla if you have to avoid it.
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How to Serve
Top with maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to keep it classic. Or pile on berries for a bright twist. Sometimes we let everyone choose their own—think whipped cream or chopped nuts for a sweet extra.
A Little Backstory
This dish comes from smart cooks in Europe who turned leftover bread into something delicious. Using the air fryer, you get a crispy crust and fluffy middle, no big mess or puddles of oil needed. Old trick, new style.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What’s the best bread type for these bites?
Go for bread that's a bit dry—yesterday’s loaf works best. It’ll soak up your egg mix without getting mushy.
- → How can I keep the French toast bites from sticking in my air fryer?
Give your air fryer basket a spritz with non-stick spray before you put in the bread. That way, you won’t have pieces stuck everywhere.
- → Is it possible to prep these ahead and then heat them up later?
Definitely! Make them before, pop the bites in your air fryer for a quick reheat, and they come out just as crispy.
- → Which toppings taste the best on French toast bites?
Try fresh fruit, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or your favorite syrup. Anything you’d dunk classic French toast in works here too.
- → Do I have to flip or shake my toast bites while they’re cooking?
Yup, shaking the basket halfway helps all the bites get that lovely golden crust.
- → How can I tell when these bites are perfectly cooked?
Look for a rich golden color and a bit of firmness on the outside—should take around 8–10 minutes at 350°F. The inside should stay fluffy.