Can You Toast Toast in an Air Fryer Find Out Here

Yes, you can toast toast in an air fryer—it’s a quick, efficient method that delivers perfectly crisp results in under 5 minutes. Adjustable temperature and timing let you achieve your ideal level of browning, making your air fryer a surprisingly versatile toasting tool.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can toast toast in an air fryer for faster, crispier results.
• Use 350–400°F for ideal browning without burning your toast.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even and consistent toasting.
• Flip halfway through for uniform crispness on both sides.
• Add butter or oil before toasting for enhanced flavor and texture.
• Monitor closely to avoid over-toasting due to quick cook times.

Can You Toast Toast in an Air Fryer? Find Out Here

It was a lazy Sunday morning. I had just pulled out a couple of slices of bread from the freezer, craving a warm, golden-brown piece of toast with a generous smear of almond butter. But my toaster was acting up—again. Frustrated, I glanced at my air fryer, sitting proudly on the countertop like a multitasking kitchen superhero. A thought struck me: Can you toast toast in an air fryer? I mean, it heats, it crisps, and it’s basically a mini convection oven. Why not?

That single moment sparked a week-long experiment. I tried different breads, temperatures, and times. I burned a few slices, perfected others, and even discovered a few unexpected tricks along the way. If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen wondering the same thing—whether your air fryer can replace your toaster—you’re not alone. Thousands of home cooks are asking this exact question. And the answer? A resounding yes—but with a few caveats, tips, and a whole lot of delicious results. So, let’s dive in and find out how to toast toast (yes, that’s intentional!) in an air fryer, what works best, and when you might still want to reach for the toaster.

How the Air Fryer Works for Toasting

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of toasting bread, it helps to understand how an air fryer actually works. Unlike traditional toasters that use radiant heat from heating elements above and below the bread, air fryers use rapid air circulation. They draw in air, heat it with a heating element, and then blast it around the food using a high-speed fan. This creates a convection effect—similar to a convection oven—that crisps and browns food from all sides.

Why Convection Matters for Toasting

The convection process is what makes air fryers so effective for browning. When you place bread in the air fryer basket, hot air hits it from multiple angles. This means your toast gets crisp on the surface while staying soft and airy inside—if you time it right. The even airflow also helps prevent hot spots, which can be a problem with older toasters that have uneven heating elements.

Think of it like a tiny wind tunnel for your bread. The hot air dances around each slice, gently toasting the surface without drying out the center. That’s a big win for anyone who’s ever had one side of their toast perfectly golden and the other still pale and cold.

Air Fryer vs. Toaster: Key Differences

While both appliances toast bread, they do it differently:

• Heating method: Toasters use direct radiant heat; air fryers use circulating hot air.
• Evenness: Air fryers often toast more evenly due to 360-degree airflow.
• Control: Air fryers usually offer more precise temperature settings (e.g., 300°F to 400°F) compared to a toaster’s “light to dark” dial.
• Size: Most air fryer baskets hold 2–4 slices, while standard toasters fit 2–4 as well—so capacity is similar.
• Versatility: Air fryers can do much more than toast—bake, roast, reheat, and even cook frozen foods.

So, if you’re using your air fryer for more than just fries and chicken wings, adding toast to the menu makes perfect sense. But there’s a learning curve—especially when it comes to timing and temperature.

Step-by-Step: How to Toast Bread in an Air Fryer

Now that we know the science, let’s get practical. Here’s my tried-and-tested method for perfect air fryer toast every time. I’ve used this with everything from sourdough to gluten-free bread, and it works like a charm when you follow the steps.

1. Choose the Right Bread

Not all breads toast the same way. Thick slices (like sourdough or Texas toast) do well in the air fryer because they can handle longer cooking times without drying out. Thin sandwich bread? It toasts faster and can burn easily, so keep an eye on it.

Here’s a quick guide:

• Thick-cut bread (sourdough, ciabatta, artisan): 3–5 minutes at 350°F
• Standard sandwich bread: 2–3 minutes at 330°F
• Gluten-free or low-carb bread: 2.5–4 minutes at 325°F (often more delicate)
• Frozen bread: Add 1–2 minutes to any time, but thaw slightly first if possible

2. Preheat the Air Fryer (Optional but Recommended)

Preheating isn’t always necessary, but it helps achieve a more consistent toast. I usually preheat for 2–3 minutes at 350°F. This mimics a toaster’s “ready” state and reduces the risk of under-toasting.

Pro tip: If you’re in a rush, skip preheating—but add 30 seconds to your cooking time. Just don’t expect the same crispness.

3. Place Bread in the Basket

Arrange your bread slices in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the basket—airflow is key. If your air fryer is small, toast in batches. Overlapping slices will steam instead of toast, leaving you with soggy edges.

For extra crispness, you can lightly spray or brush the bread with a bit of oil (olive oil, avocado oil, or even butter spray). This helps the surface brown faster and adds flavor. But it’s optional—dry bread toasts just fine.

4. Set Time and Temperature

This is where most people go wrong. Too high a temp, and you’ll have charcoal. Too low, and you’ll get warm bread with no crunch.

Here’s my go-to starting point:

• Light toast: 300°F for 2 minutes
• Medium toast: 350°F for 3 minutes
• Dark toast: 375°F for 4 minutes

After the first 2 minutes, check your toast. Every air fryer model heats slightly differently. Some run hot, others run cool. Use the first batch as a test. If it’s too pale, add 30–60 seconds. If it’s browning too fast, lower the temp by 25°F next time.

5. Flip for Even Browning (Optional)

Most air fryers toast both sides well without flipping. But if you want perfect symmetry—especially on thick bread—flip the slices halfway through. This ensures both sides get equal exposure to the hot air.

I usually flip after 2 minutes when toasting for 4 minutes. For shorter times (2–3 minutes), flipping isn’t necessary unless you’re after a very specific look.

6. Cool and Serve

Once done, remove the toast with tongs or a fork (the basket gets hot!). Let it cool for 30 seconds—this helps the crispiness settle. Then, slather with butter, avocado, peanut butter, or your favorite spread. Enjoy!

Bonus tip: For garlic bread, place a slice in the air fryer, brush with garlic butter, and toast at 350°F for 3–4 minutes. It’s a game-changer.

Best Bread Types for Air Fryer Toasting

Not all breads behave the same in the air fryer. Some crisp beautifully, while others turn into hard discs or fall apart. After testing over 15 types of bread, here’s what I found works—and what doesn’t.

Breads That Toast Like a Dream

• Sourdough: Thick, chewy, and perfect for air fryer toasting. Gets a crisp crust and tender crumb. 3–4 minutes at 350°F is ideal.
• Whole grain or multigrain: Holds up well to heat. Toasts evenly and develops a nutty, toasty flavor. Try 3 minutes at 330°F.
• Texas toast: Already thick and buttery. Just 2–3 minutes at 350°F gives you a golden, crunchy slice. Great for French toast or grilled cheese.
• Gluten-free bread: Often fragile, but air fryers handle it better than toasters. Use lower temps (325°F) and watch closely. 3 minutes is usually safe.
• Brioche or challah: Sweet, soft, and rich. Toasts beautifully with a golden sheen. 2.5 minutes at 330°F prevents burning.

Breads That Need Extra Care

• Very thin sandwich bread: Can burn in seconds. Use 300°F and check after 90 seconds. Better for reheating than full toasting.
• Stale bread: Dries out faster. Add a light mist of water or oil before toasting to revive moisture.
• Artisan rustic loaves (cut thick): Great for texture, but may need flipping. Try 4 minutes total, flipping at 2.
• Frozen bread: Works, but pre-thaw for 1–2 minutes in the microwave or at room temp. Otherwise, it’ll toast unevenly.

Breads to Avoid (or Use Sparingly)

• Pre-sliced bagels: Often too thick and dense. Better suited for toaster ovens or regular ovens.
• Very soft white bread (like Wonder Bread): Can dry out or burn easily. Use low temp and short time.
• Bread with seeds or nuts on the surface: These can fall off or burn. Place face-down or monitor closely.

Personal favorite: I’ve fallen in love with air-fried sourdough with a smear of goat cheese and a drizzle of honey. The crust gets shatteringly crisp, and the inside stays soft. It’s like a mini artisan toast bar on demand.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. I’ve made every mistake in the book—from charcoal toast to soggy centers. Here are the top pitfalls and how to dodge them.

1. Burning the Toast

Why it happens: Air fryers can get hotter than expected, especially if you’re used to a toaster’s “dark” setting.

How to fix it: Start low and go slow. Begin at 325°F for 2 minutes. If you want darker toast, add 30 seconds, not 2 minutes. Use the “check early” rule: open the basket after 2 minutes and assess.

2. Uneven Toasting

Why it happens: Overcrowding, not flipping, or a poorly positioned slice (e.g., touching the basket wall).

How to fix it: Leave space between slices. Flip halfway. Rotate the basket if your model allows it. For very thick bread, flip and rotate.

3. Soggy or Steamed Toast

Why it happens: Too much moisture (e.g., wet butter, wet bread) or overcrowding that traps steam.

How to fix it: Use dry bread or lightly pat frozen bread with a paper towel. Don’t stack slices. Use the air fryer’s crisper plate (if your model has one) to elevate the bread.

4. Forgetting to Preheat

Why it matters: Without preheating, the first minute of cooking is spent heating the basket, not the bread. This leads to longer cook times and less crispness.

How to fix it: Preheat for 2–3 minutes. Or, accept a slightly softer toast and add 30 seconds to the cook time.

5. Using the Wrong Temperature

Why it’s tricky: Air fryer temps vary by model. A 350°F setting on one brand might feel like 375°F on another.

How to fix it: Treat your first batch as a test. Note the time and result. Adjust future batches based on that. Keep a little kitchen journal or sticky note on the air fryer.

Real talk: I once left a piece of sourdough in for 6 minutes at 375°F. It looked like a hockey puck. Lesson learned: less is more.

Beyond Toast: Creative Air Fryer Bread Ideas

Once you master the basics, the air fryer opens up a world of possibilities. Here are a few creative ways to use your air fryer for all things bread.

1. Reheat Leftover Toast or Bagels

Got day-old toast that’s gone soft? Toss it in the air fryer at 300°F for 1–2 minutes. It’ll regain its crispness without drying out. Same goes for bagels—just slice them first.

2. Make Garlic Bread or Cheese Toast

Place a slice of bread in the basket, top with garlic butter and shredded cheese, and air fry at 350°F for 3–4 minutes. Watch the cheese bubble and crisp. It’s restaurant-quality in minutes.

3. Create Croutons

Cut stale bread into cubes, toss with olive oil, salt, and herbs, and air fry at 375°F for 4–5 minutes, shaking halfway. Perfect for salads or soups.

4. Make French Toast

Soak bread in egg/milk/cinnamon mix, then air fry at 350°F for 4–5 minutes, flipping halfway. Less mess, less oil, and just as delicious.

5. Toast Tortillas or Pita

Need warm tortillas for tacos? Air fry at 325°F for 1–2 minutes. Pita bread? Same time, but check after 60 seconds to avoid puffing too much.

Bonus idea: I once made “cinnamon toast bites” by cutting toast into strips, brushing with butter, sprinkling with cinnamon sugar, and air frying at 325°F for 2 minutes. My kids devoured them in seconds.

Data Table: Air Fryer Toasting Times & Tips by Bread Type

Bread Type	Temperature	Time (Minutes)	Tips
Sourdough (thick)	350°F	3–4	Flip halfway for even browning
White sandwich bread	330°F	2–3	Check after 2 minutes to avoid burning
Gluten-free bread	325°F	2.5–4	Use low temp; watch closely
Texas toast	350°F	2–3	Great for garlic bread or grilled cheese
Brioche	330°F	2.5	Don’t over-toast; it browns fast
Frozen bread	350°F	3–5 (add 1–2 min)	Thaw slightly first for even toasting
Whole grain	330°F	3	Add oil for extra crispness

Final Thoughts: Is Air Fryer Toasting Worth It?

So, can you toast toast in an air fryer? Absolutely. And for many people, it’s not just possible—it’s better. The air fryer offers more control, even browning, and the ability to customize your toast to your exact liking. Whether you’re making a quick breakfast, reheating leftovers, or creating a gourmet garlic bread, the air fryer handles it with ease.

Is it a full replacement for a toaster? That depends. If you toast bread 3–4 times a day, a dedicated toaster might still be more convenient. But if you’re like me—someone who uses the air fryer for everything from fries to veggies to reheating pizza—then adding toast to the menu is a no-brainer. It’s one less appliance to clutter your countertop, and one more way to get the most out of your favorite kitchen gadget.

The key is patience and practice. Your first batch might not be perfect. You might burn a slice or two. But once you find your sweet spot—your ideal temp, time, and bread combo—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without air fryer toast.

So go ahead. Pull out that bread. Fire up the air fryer. And toast toast like a pro. Your morning routine just got a whole lot toastier—and tastier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you toast toast in an air fryer?

Yes, you can toast bread in an air fryer! The hot, circulating air quickly crisps the bread to your preferred level of doneness. It’s a great alternative to a traditional toaster, especially if you’re already using the air fryer for other foods.

How do you toast bread in an air fryer?

Place slices of bread in a single layer in the air fryer basket, set the temperature to 350°F–375°F (175°C–190°C), and toast for 2–4 minutes. Flip halfway through for even browning, and keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Is toasting bread in an air fryer faster than using a regular toaster?

It depends on the air fryer model and settings, but generally, air fryers toast bread slightly slower than dedicated toasters. However, the difference is minimal (usually 30 seconds to 1 minute), and the air fryer offers more control over crispiness.

Can you toast frozen bread in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Toasting frozen bread in an air fryer is simple: just add 1–2 extra minutes to the cook time. No need to thaw—start at 360°F (180°C) and check frequently to avoid over-browning.

What’s the best air fryer setting for toasting bread?

For most air fryers, 360°F (180°C) for 3–4 minutes yields perfectly golden toast. Adjust the time or temperature based on your desired crispiness and the thickness of the bread. Always avoid overcrowding the basket.

Can you toast toast in an air fryer without burning it?

Yes, as long as you monitor the process and use the right settings. Air fryers vary in heat intensity, so start with a lower temperature (350°F) and shorter time, then adjust as needed. Shorter intervals with frequent checks work best.