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When I want a fast breakfast that feels a bit special, I throw together these air fryer French toast bites. Every bite’s got a crunchy shell and a soft, sweet middle. The kids always snatch 'em before I even manage to pour on syrup.
These first disappeared at our house after a sleepover morning. Now I whip them up anytime I want everyone to clean their plates in record time.
Irresistible Ingredients
- bread cubes: grab stiffer types like white, challah, or something sturdy—cut into bites about an inch big so they're extra fluffy
- large eggs: makes the bites rich and helps everything stick—fresh ones are best
- milk: whole milk soaks and adds creaminess, but use whatever milk you’ve got
- kosher salt: wakes up all the other flavors and keeps things from getting too sweet
- vanilla extract: brings out an awesome smell—pure kind is yummiest if you have it
- ground cinnamon: for warm, cozy flavor—fresh cinnamon smells amazing
- brown sugar: adds rich sweetness, go for soft brown sugar so it mixes in easy
Easy Step-by-Step
- Whisk Up the Mix:
- Put eggs, vanilla, milk, cinnamon, salt, and brown sugar into a big bowl. Whisk until smooth and blended.
- Soak Those Cubes:
- Toss your bread chunks in the bowl and let 'em soak, turning gently so everything's covered and the flavors soak in.
- Prep the Fryer:
- Hit your air fryer basket or rack with some nonstick spray so nothing sticks and cleanup’s easy.
- Arrange and Space:
- Lay out the soaked cubes in the basket in a single layer, leaving gaps for air to circulate so every side crisps up.
- Air Fry 'Em:
- Crank the air fryer up to 350, let the bites cook about 8–10 minutes, and shake the basket halfway for crunch all over. Pull them out once they're golden brown with crispy edges.
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I always lean toward brown sugar for that rich, caramel-like taste you get at a cozy brunch spot. My son once dumped chocolate chips on top—it’s his favorite memory and I can’t blame him!
Keeping Extras
Stick extra bites in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days—pop them back in the air fryer when you want and they’re crispy again quick. Freeze leftovers flat, then store them in bags—just grab what you want and breakfast is sorted, even when mornings are nuts.
Change Things Up
Swap in brioche or thick wheat bread for more flavor or fiber. Need non-dairy? Oat or almond milk work great, or try coconut milk to dodge allergies. Skip vanilla if you can’t have it—it’ll still taste awesome.
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Serving Ideas
Pour on maple syrup or dust with powdered sugar for a classic finish. A heap of berries adds a bright twist. Sometimes everyone gets to pick their own topping—think whipped cream or crunchy nuts for a little extra fun.
Fun History
This favorite started out in Europe when folks wanted to save leftover bread and turn it into something delightful. Now, the air fryer gives you crisp outsides and a puffy center without the oily mess—old idea, modern style.
Common Questions
- → Which bread works best for these crisp bites?
Old bread (a day or two old) does great. It soaks in the egg without falling apart.
- → What’s the trick to stopping toast bites from sticking in the air fryer?
Spray your air fryer basket with a little non-stick oil before adding your bread cubes. No more sticking problems!
- → Can these be cooked ahead and rewarmed later on?
Sure thing. Just make them, keep them cool, then pop back in the air fryer when you’re ready to eat. They’ll crisp up again.
- → What toppings go well with these little toast cubes?
Toss on berries, drizzle syrup, dust with powdered sugar, or pile on whipped cream—whatever sounds good to you.
- → Do you need to flip or move the toast bites around as they cook?
Definitely. Give the basket a shake when halfway done, so everything browns up nicely.
- → How do I know my toast bites are finished?
They're good to go when they're golden and a bit firm on the outside after 8–10 minutes at 350°F. The middle should stay light and fluffy.