If you’re on the hunt for a comforting breakfast that feels both indulgent and effortlessly simple, the Air Fryer Custard Toast Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful twist on classic custard toast delivers perfectly golden, crisp edges with a luxuriously creamy center all thanks to your trusty air fryer. Rich vanilla and a hint of cinnamon dance in every bite, making it a sweet start to your morning or a cozy afternoon treat that’s ready in a flash.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Air Fryer Custard Toast Recipe lies in its simplicity, using just a handful of essential ingredients that each bring their own magic. From the thick sliced bread that forms the soft base to the vanilla and cinnamon that elevate the flavor, every element plays a key role.
- Thick sliced bread: Opt for fresh or slightly stale slices to soak up the custard without falling apart.
- Eggs: Large eggs provide structure and richness to the custard mixture.
- Milk or cream: This adds creaminess and tender texture to the custard soak.
- Vanilla extract: A teaspoon brightens the flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- Sugar: Just a tablespoon balances the custard’s sweetness perfectly.
- Cinnamon or nutmeg (optional): A pinch adds subtle spice for extra warmth and complexity.
- Butter (optional): Melted or sliced for brushing, it helps achieve a golden, luscious crust.
How to Make Air Fryer Custard Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
Start by cracking 2 large eggs into a shallow bowl. Whisk in 1 cup of milk or cream, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and harmonious. For an inviting hint of spice, sprinkle in about 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg and give the custard one last whisk to blend.
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Take each slice of thick bread and gently dip it into the custard mixture, coating both sides evenly. Be careful not to soak the bread too long or it might turn soggy—just a few seconds per side is perfect. Allow any excess custard to drip off before moving on.
Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and let it warm up for about 3 minutes. Preheating ensures the toast cooks evenly and develops a beautifully crisp crust with a tender, creamy inside.
Step 4: Air Fry the Custard Toast
Arrange the soaked bread slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap for maximum crispiness. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through so both sides get that perfect golden-brown glow. Once done, you’ll have toast that’s crispy on the outside with a custardy center begging to be savored.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Carefully remove your custard toast and get ready to indulge. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm, the way custard toast was meant to be savored.
How to Serve Air Fryer Custard Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Lift your Air Fryer Custard Toast Recipe to the next level by adding simple yet delicious garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a handful of fresh berries. These little touches add brightness and sweetness without overpowering that custardy richness.
Side Dishes
Pair your custard toast with light sides to create a balanced breakfast or snack. Fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, or a small bowl of yogurt with honey are fantastic companions that bring color and contrasting textures to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stack multiple slices with layers of whipped cream and fruit in between to create a custard toast tower. Alternatively, cut the toast into bite-sized soldiers for dipping into a side of warm maple syrup—perfect for sharing or nibbling at leisure.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though it’s hard to resist!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The custard toast will soften a bit but can still be enjoyed cold or reheated.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze cooked custard toast by wrapping slices individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month to maintain flavor and texture.
Reheating
To revive your stored Air Fryer Custard Toast Recipe, pop the slices back into the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes. This method revives the crispiness without drying out the custardy center, unlike a microwave which tends to make it soggy.
FAQs
Can I use any type of bread for this recipe?
Yes, but thick sliced bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best because they soak up the custard without falling apart, giving you that ideal creamy interior and crisp exterior.
Is it necessary to use an air fryer for this custard toast?
While the air fryer provides a fast and energy-efficient way to get a crispy crust, you can also use a skillet or oven if needed. Just expect a different texture and slightly longer cooking time.
Can I add other spices or flavors to the custard?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with a pinch of cardamom, almond extract instead of vanilla, or even a splash of orange zest to make the custard uniquely yours.
How do I prevent the toast from getting soggy?
The key is to soak the bread just enough to absorb the custard without letting it sit too long. Also, draining excess liquid before air frying and preheating the air fryer ensures a crispy finish.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
This custard toast recipe is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Just be mindful of topping choices if serving to very young children, and consider reducing sugar slightly if you prefer less sweetness.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Custard Toast Recipe is a cozy, easy way to elevate your mornings or surprise your loved ones with something a little special. It’s quick, approachable, and irresistibly delicious, making it a perfect go-to whenever you crave something warm and sweet with minimal fuss. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite breakfast treats!
Print
Air Fryer Custard Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Air Fryer Custard Toast is a quick and delicious breakfast treat that combines thick sliced bread soaked in a rich custard mixture and cooked to golden perfection in an air fryer. This method results in a crispy exterior and creamy center, making it a perfect alternative to traditional French toast with less oil and fuss.
Ingredients
Custard Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk or cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)
Toast
- 4 slices thick sliced bread (fresh or slightly stale)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, melted or sliced for brushing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1 cup of milk or cream, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Optionally, add 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Soak the Bread: Dip each slice of thick bread into the custard mixture, coating both sides evenly. Avoid soaking too long to prevent sogginess. Allow excess custard to drip off before cooking.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and preheat it for about 3 minutes to ensure even cooking and a crispy finish.
- Air Fry the Custard Toast: Place the soaked bread slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through to achieve an evenly golden crust and creamy center.
- Serve Warm and Enjoy: Carefully remove the custard toast from the air fryer. Serve immediately with your choice of toppings such as powdered sugar, maple syrup, or fresh berries for a delightful breakfast experience.
Notes
- For a richer taste, use cream instead of milk in the custard mixture.
- If the bread is very fresh, slightly toasting it before soaking can help it hold the custard better.
- Use thick slices of bread to prevent the toast from becoming too soggy.
- Flip the bread halfway through air frying to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Optional butter can be brushed on before or after air frying for extra flavor.
