Can You Cook French Toast in an Air Fryer Discover How

Yes, you can cook French toast in an air fryer—and it’s a game-changer! The air fryer delivers crispy, golden-brown French toast with less oil and faster cooking times than traditional methods, all while keeping the inside perfectly soft. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s the ultimate hack for a quick, delicious breakfast.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook French toast in an air fryer—it’s faster and crispier than traditional methods.
• Preheat the air fryer for even cooking and optimal texture every time.
• Use thick bread slices to prevent sogginess and hold up to air frying.
• Spray or brush with oil to enhance browning and avoid sticking.
• Cook in batches to ensure air circulation and consistent results.
• Flip halfway through for golden, evenly cooked French toast.

Can You Cook French Toast in an Air Fryer? Discover How

Let’s be honest: mornings can be chaotic. Between getting the kids ready for school, packing lunches, and somehow remembering to drink coffee before it turns cold, breakfast often gets rushed—or skipped altogether. That’s why I’ve always loved French toast. It’s warm, comforting, and feels like a hug in a plate. But let’s face it: standing over a sizzling skillet, flipping slices, and dealing with splattering butter? Not exactly my idea of a relaxing start to the day.

Enter the air fryer. This little kitchen hero has changed how I cook—crispy chicken wings, roasted veggies, even hard-boiled eggs (yes, really). So one morning, with a loaf of stale bread and a hankering for something sweet, I asked myself: Can you cook French toast in an air fryer? Spoiler alert: yes, you absolutely can. And not only can you, but you might actually prefer it. The results? Golden, slightly crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and ready in less time than it takes to toast a bagel. No oil splatter, no smoke, no stress. Just delicious, easy French toast that feels like a treat—without the mess.

Why the Air Fryer Might Be Your New French Toast Best Friend

If you’ve ever made French toast the traditional way—dipping bread in a custard mix and frying it in a skillet—you know the drill. It works. But it also comes with a few frustrations: burnt edges, undercooked centers, greasy pans, and the lingering smell of butter in your kitchen for hours. The air fryer flips the script. It uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food evenly, creating that golden crust without submerging your bread in oil.

Even Cooking Without the Fuss

One of the biggest advantages of air frying French toast is consistency. In a skillet, heat varies across the surface, and you’re constantly adjusting. With an air fryer, the hot air moves around the bread, cooking it evenly from all sides. No more flipping every 30 seconds. Just lay the slices in, close the basket, and let the machine do the work. I’ve found that even thicker slices—like challah or brioche—cook through beautifully without drying out.

Less Oil, Less Mess, Less Guilt

Traditional French toast often relies on a generous amount of butter or oil to achieve that golden crust. The air fryer cuts that down drastically. A quick spritz of cooking spray or a light brush of oil is enough to prevent sticking and add a bit of crispness. This means fewer calories, less greasy residue, and no more scrubbing burnt-on butter from your skillet. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—just wipe down the basket or toss it in the dishwasher (if your model allows).

Perfect for Busy Mornings

Let’s say you wake up late, and the clock is ticking. You need breakfast fast. The air fryer preheats in minutes, and French toast cooks in about 6–8 minutes per batch. Compare that to waiting for a skillet to heat, managing the heat, flipping, and cleaning up afterward. The air fryer streamlines the whole process. I’ve even made French toast for my family of four in under 15 minutes—no stress, no mess, just warm, delicious slices on the table.

What You’ll Need: Ingredients and Equipment

Before you dive in, let’s talk about what you’ll need. The beauty of air fryer French toast is that it uses ingredients you probably already have. No fancy tools required—just your air fryer, a few basics, and a little know-how.

Essential Ingredients

• Bread: Stale bread is actually better! It soaks up the custard without falling apart. My favorites are brioche, challah, sourdough, or even Texas toast. Avoid very soft or flimsy bread—it can disintegrate during cooking.
• Eggs: Large eggs work best. They provide structure and richness. For a richer flavor, try using a mix of whole eggs and egg yolks.
• Milk or cream: Whole milk adds creaminess. For extra decadence, use half-and-half or even heavy cream. Dairy-free? Almond milk or oat milk work well, but may yield a slightly less rich flavor.
• Sweetener: Granulated sugar, brown sugar, or maple syrup all work. Brown sugar adds a caramel note, which is lovely.
• Spices: Cinnamon is a must. A pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract elevates the flavor. I love adding a dash of cardamom for a subtle warmth.
• Optional extras: A splash of vanilla, a squeeze of lemon zest, or even a tablespoon of orange juice for brightness.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Air fryer: Any model works—basket-style or oven-style. Just make sure your bread fits comfortably without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: For whisking the custard. A shallow one makes dipping easier.
• Whisk or fork: To blend the custard evenly.
• Basting brush or spray bottle: For a light coat of oil or cooking spray.
• Tongs or a fork: For flipping or removing slices (though flipping isn’t always necessary).

Pro Tips for Prep

Here’s a tip I learned the hard way: let your bread sit out for a few hours or overnight. Fresh bread is too soft and can fall apart when dipped. Stale bread holds its shape and soaks up more custard, giving you a richer, more flavorful bite. I often use day-old bread from the bakery or even leftover sandwich loaves.

Also, don’t over-dip. Submerge each slice for about 10–15 seconds per side. Too long, and the bread gets soggy. Too short, and it won’t cook through. I like to let the excess custard drip off before placing the bread in the air fryer.

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

Now for the fun part—cooking! This method is so simple, even a beginner can nail it on the first try. I’ve tested this dozens of times, tweaking times and temps to get it just right. Here’s how I do it:

Step 1: Make the Custard

In a shallow bowl, whisk together:

• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk (or half-and-half)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or maple syrup)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Whisk until smooth and well combined. The salt balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. This ensures the bread starts cooking immediately, which helps with browning. If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat setting, just run it empty for a few minutes.

Step 3: Dip the Bread

Take a slice of bread and dip it into the custard, letting it soak for 10–15 seconds per side. Gently press to help it absorb, but don’t squeeze. Let excess custard drip off. Repeat with additional slices—just don’t overcrowd the bowl.

Step 4: Prep the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and helps the bread crisp up. I use olive oil spray, but any neutral oil works.

Step 5: Arrange and Cook

Place the dipped bread slices in a single layer in the basket. Leave a little space between them so air can circulate. If you have a small basket, cook in batches. Set the timer for 6 minutes. After 6 minutes, flip the slices (optional, but recommended for even browning) and cook for another 2–4 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. Thicker bread may need closer to 4 minutes per side.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the French toast with tongs or a fork. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a dollop of yogurt. I love a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for extra warmth.

My Go-To Timing Chart

Bread Type	Thickness	First Side (min)	Second Side (min)	Total Time
Brioche	1 inch	6	3–4	9–10 min
Challah	3/4 inch	6	2–3	8–9 min
Sourdough	1/2 inch	5	2	7 min
Texas Toast	1 inch	7	4–5	11–12 min

Note: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model. Always check for doneness by cutting a slice in half—there should be no raw custard inside.

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Even with a foolproof method, things can go sideways. I’ve made my share of mistakes—soggy centers, burnt edges, sticking bread—so I’ve learned what not to do. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to dodge them.

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. If you stack or crowd the slices, hot air can’t circulate, and the bread steams instead of crisping. The result? Soggy, uneven French toast. Always cook in a single layer, even if it means doing two batches. Trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes.

Using Too Much Custard

Dipping for too long or using too much custard leads to bread that’s too wet. It won’t crisp up and may even fall apart. Stick to 10–15 seconds per side, and let the excess drip off. If your bread is still too wet after dipping, gently blot it with a paper towel before placing it in the basket.

Skipping the Oil Spray

Even non-stick baskets can benefit from a light spray. Without it, the bread might stick, especially around the edges. A quick spritz ensures easy release and a better sear. Don’t overdo it—just enough to prevent sticking.

Not Preheating the Air Fryer

Starting with a cold basket means the bread sits in warm air, not hot. This leads to longer cook times and less browning. Preheat for 3–5 minutes to get that immediate sear.

Flipping Too Often

Some people flip every minute, thinking it helps. But frequent flipping disrupts the cooking process and can make the bread fall apart. One flip halfway through is plenty. If you’re using a high-powered air fryer, you might not need to flip at all—just cook 6–8 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Using the Wrong Bread

Soft, thin bread like sandwich loaves can disintegrate when dipped. Thick, sturdy bread like brioche, challah, or sourdough holds up best. I once tried using a baguette—great idea in theory, but it dried out and became too crusty. Stick to breads with a soft crumb and firm structure.

Creative Twists: Beyond the Classic

Once you’ve mastered the basics, why not get creative? French toast is a blank canvas for flavor. I’ve experimented with all sorts of variations, and here are a few of my favorites that work perfectly in the air fryer.

Stuffed French Toast

Take two slices of bread, spread a layer of cream cheese, Nutella, or peanut butter, and sandwich them together. Dip as usual and air fry. The filling melts into a gooey center—perfect for a decadent weekend treat. I love a strawberry-cream cheese combo with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Churro-Style French Toast

After cooking, toss the French toast in a mix of cinnamon and sugar. It mimics the texture and flavor of churros. Serve with a chocolate dipping sauce for a dessert-like breakfast. My kids go crazy for this one.

French Toast Casserole (Single-Serve)

Cut bread into cubes, toss with custard, and add mix-ins like chocolate chips, blueberries, or diced apples. Place in a small oven-safe dish that fits in your air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F for 15–18 minutes, or until puffed and golden. It’s like a mini bread pudding.

Savory French Toast

Skip the sugar and cinnamon. Instead, add grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and a pinch of black pepper to the custard. Use sourdough or ciabatta. Serve with a fried egg and avocado for a brunch twist. It’s surprisingly satisfying.

Dairy-Free & Vegan Options

Use plant-based milk (oat or soy work best), a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg), and maple syrup instead of sugar. The texture is slightly different, but still delicious. I’ve made this for vegan friends, and they couldn’t tell the difference.

Is Air Fryer French Toast Better Than the Skillet?

This is the big question. Is air fryer French toast better than the traditional method? It depends on what you value.

Texture Comparison

Skillet French toast has a more intense crust—especially if you use lots of butter. It’s richer, with a deeper golden color. But it’s also greasier and can be uneven. Air fryer French toast is crisp on the outside, tender inside, and more consistent. It’s not quite as rich, but it’s cleaner and less heavy.

Convenience & Cleanup

The air fryer wins hands-down. No oil splatter, no smoke, no scrubbing burnt pans. The basket is easy to wipe down or dishwasher-safe. For busy households or small kitchens, this is a game-changer.

Health Factor

Air fryer French toast uses far less oil, making it a lighter option. It’s not a health food, but it’s a smarter choice if you’re watching calories or saturated fat. Plus, you’re not inhaling butter fumes all morning.

Flavor

Skillet wins on flavor depth—butter adds a nutty, rich note that’s hard to replicate. However, you can get close by using a small amount of butter in the air fryer (brush it on before cooking) or adding a bit of browned butter to the custard.

For me, the air fryer wins for everyday use. It’s fast, clean, and reliable. But I still make skillet French toast on special occasions—because sometimes, a little indulgence is worth the mess.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can (and Should!) Cook French Toast in an Air Fryer

So, can you cook French toast in an air fryer? Absolutely. And if you haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing out. It’s one of those kitchen hacks that feels like cheating—because it’s so easy, so clean, and so delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy breakfast without the cleanup, the air fryer delivers.

I’ve made French toast this way for my family, my in-laws, even my picky toddler (who now requests it weekly). It’s become my go-to for lazy Sundays, holiday brunches, and even quick weekday breakfasts. The best part? It doesn’t feel like a compromise. It’s still warm, sweet, and comforting—just without the hassle.

So grab your air fryer, dig out that stale bread, and give it a try. You might just find that this simple switch changes how you do breakfast forever. And who knows? Maybe you’ll discover your own twist along the way. Happy cooking—and even happier eating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook French toast in an air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook French toast in an air fryer! The air fryer’s circulating hot air creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy, making it a quick and easy cooking method.

What’s the best way to cook French toast in an air fryer?

For the best results, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C), coat bread slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon, and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway. Lightly spraying with oil ensures a golden, crispy finish.

Do I need to adjust cooking time for French toast in an air fryer?

Yes, air fryers cook faster than traditional ovens, so aim for 6-8 minutes total, flipping once. Thicker bread slices may need an extra minute, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Can you cook frozen French toast in an air fryer?

Absolutely! To cook frozen French toast in an air fryer, skip preheating and air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway. No need to thaw—it’s a convenient and time-saving option.

Is air fryer French toast healthier than pan-fried?

Yes, air fryer French toast uses little to no oil, reducing overall fat and calories compared to pan-frying. The air fryer’s efficient cooking method also helps retain nutrients while delivering a satisfying crunch.

What type of bread works best for French toast in an air fryer?

Sturdy bread like brioche, challah, or French bread works best, as they hold up well to soaking and air frying. Avoid very thin or soft bread, which may fall apart during cooking.