Air Fryer French Toast Recipe

Bread: Preferably stale, as it absorbs the egg mixture better.

Eggs: Acts as the base for the custard mixture.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the custard.

Vanilla extract: Provides a sweet, aromatic flavor.

Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the dish.

Butter: Melted, to add richness and help with browning.

To achieve an even crispier texture, try using panko breadcrumbs as a coating. After dipping the bread in the egg mixture, lightly press each slice into a plate of panko breadcrumbs before placing them in the air fryer. This adds an extra layer of crunch that complements the soft interior of the French toast.

• stale bread - Substitute with brioche: Brioche is rich and slightly sweet, making it an excellent alternative for French toast.

• stale bread - Substitute with challah: Challah has a similar texture and richness, perfect for soaking up the egg mixture.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoon water per egg; this works well for a vegan option.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that still provides a creamy texture.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a subtle, sweet flavor and is also dairy-free.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract gives a nutty, aromatic flavor that complements French toast.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, slightly sweet spice that pairs well with French toast.

• cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: This blend includes cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices, adding a complex flavor.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free option that adds a slight coconut flavor.

• melted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a rich, nutty flavor and is lactose-free, making it a good alternative.

• Allow the French toast to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the toast soggy.

• Place the cooled French toast slices in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. If stacking slices, separate each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.

• To freeze, lay the French toast slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. This step ensures the slices don't stick together.

• Once frozen, transfer the slices to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness. The French toast can be frozen for up to 2 months.

• When ready to enjoy, reheat the French toast directly from the refrigerator or freezer. For refrigerated slices, use a toaster, oven, or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through. For frozen slices, increase the time to 10-12 minutes.

• Serve the reheated French toast with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover French toast in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until warmed through and crispy.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the French toast slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated through.

• Microwave Method: Place the French toast slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through, until warmed through. Note: This method may result in a softer texture.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan. Place the French toast slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until heated through and slightly crispy.

• Toaster Method: If your French toast slices are thin enough, you can reheat them in a toaster. Set the toaster to a medium setting and toast until warmed through and crispy.

• Air fryer: Used to cook the French toast to a golden brown and crispy texture without the need for excessive oil.

• Mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon to create the egg mixture.

• Whisk: Used to thoroughly mix the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.

• Tongs: Used to dip the bread slices into the egg mixture and to flip the bread slices halfway through cooking.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the milk and melted butter accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the vanilla extract and cinnamon accurately.

• Pastry brush: Used to apply melted butter to the air fryer basket to prevent sticking (optional).

• Serving plate: Used to serve the warm French toast with your favorite toppings.

Use stale bread: Stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better, reducing soaking time.

Pre-mix ingredients: Combine eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon the night before to save time in the morning.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple slices in the air fryer at once if your basket size allows.

Melt butter in advance: Have the melted butter ready to speed up the preparation process.

Use parchment paper: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to minimize cleanup time.