Air Fryer Croutons With Olive Oil
These air fryer croutons come out perfectly crispy and full of flavor, all thanks to a touch of olive oil. They are great for topping salads, adding crunch to soups, or just enjoying them as a snack. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make from scratch, help cut down on food waste, and give you complete control over what goes into them.
Please continue scrolling down to find the recipe card below, which contains the complete list of ingredients with measurements, detailed recipe instructions, additional notes, and nutritional information.
Olive oil is the secret ingredient that takes these croutons to the next level. Its subtle, fruity flavor enhances the taste without being overpowering. It’s a healthier alternative to butter or other cooking oils, so you can feel good about using it.
Making croutons at home in the air fryer combines convenience with delicious results—it’s ready in just 15 minutes, fuss-free, and delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Bread – Day-old or slightly stale homemade bread works best. Sourdough, baguette, or whole wheat are all great options.
- Olive oil – Use extra virgin for a rich flavor.
- Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and dried thyme. You can add your favorite spices and flavorings such as paprika or garlic powder.
How to Make Extra Crispy Croutons with Olive Oil in an Air Fryer?
Important Note
Before you start cooking, note that times may differ among air fryers. I develop my recipes using a Cosori 6.8 air fryer. If you’re using a different air fryer, view my recipes as a general guide and tweak the cooking time—add a bit more or cook slightly less as needed.
Cut your bread into cubes, aim for uniform pieces about ½ to 1 inch in size. This ensures even cooking in the air fryer.
Place the cubes in a bowl, drizzle olive oil over them, and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix gently to ensure each piece is lightly coated.
Quick Tip!
Slightly stale bread is ideal since it’s firmer and easier to cut. If your bread is fresh, you can leave it out for a few hours to dry slightly.
Set your air fryer to 365°F (185°C) and spread the cubes in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to turn the cubes. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary depending on the bread type.
Once golden and crisp, transfer them to a plate and let them cool. They’ll crisp up even more as they cool.
Expert Tips From the Chef
- Cut into uniform cubes about ½ to 1 inch in size. This ensures even cooking in the air fryer.
- Make sure the cubes are evenly coated in oil and not overcrowded.
- Shake the basket to ensure even cooking.
- Watch closely as the bread can go from golden to burnt quickly.
Creative Ways to Use Your Croutons
While salads are the classic use, there’s so much more you can do:
- Soup Topper: Sprinkle them on Roasted Cauliflower Soup with Celeriac for added texture.
- Snack: Enjoy them on their own for a quick, savory treat.
- Casseroles: Add as a crunchy topping for baked dishes like mac and cheese.
Storage Tips
Keep Air Fryer Croutons in a sealed jar or container at room temperature. Avoid putting them in a fridge as they might lose their crispness.
If they lose their crunch, toss them back in the air fryer for a minute or two.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, the method works just as well with gluten-free varieties.
Yes! Store them in a freezer bag for up to three months. To refresh, heat them in the air fryer for a minute or two.
Moisture is the culprit. Ensure they’re completely cool before storing, and keep them in a dry, airtight container.
Did you make this recipe? Please let me know how it turned out! Please give us a five-star rating and leave a comment below.
I hope you enjoy the process of preparing these delicious Air Fryer Croutons With Olive Oil just as much as you enjoy eating them! 🙂
Bon appétit!
Air Fryer Croutons With Olive Oil
Instructions
- Slightly stale bread is ideal since it’s firmer and easier to cut. If your bread is fresh, you can leave it out for a few hours to dry slightly.
- Cut your bread into cubes, aim for uniform pieces about ½ to 1 inch in size. This ensures even cooking in the air fryer.
- Place the cubes in a bowl, drizzle olive oil over them, and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix gently to ensure each piece is lightly coated.
- Set your air fryer to 365°F (185°C) and spread the cubes in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to turn the cubes. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary depending on the bread type.
- Once golden and crisp, transfer them to a plate and let them cool. They’ll crisp up even more as they cool.
Notes
- Cut into uniform cubes about ½ to 1 inch in size. This ensures even cooking in the air fryer.
- Make sure the cubes are evenly coated in oil and not overcrowded.
- Shake the basket to ensure even cooking.
- Watch closely as the bread can go from golden to burnt quickly.
