Buttery Air Fryer Croutons

If you’ve been around Hungry Dane Kitchen for a while, you know I love simple kitchen wins—and these Buttery Air Fryer Croutons are just that! I’ve been making homemade croutons for years, but once I discovered how quick and easy it is to make them in the air fryer, I haven’t looked back.

All you need is some bread, butter (or oil), and salt to get started. From there, you can add flavor boosts like garlic and herbs. We’re big fans of garlic and Italian seasoning in our house, but feel free to customize to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Bread: Day old bread works very well . 4 cups cut into 1 inch cubes.
  White or sourdough work great for a neutral flavor. Rye, wheat, or flavored breads add a fun twist—just consider what herbs and seasonings will pair best.
• Butter: ¼ cup butter melted.
  You can swap in olive oil or another neutral oil if you prefer.
• Garlic: 2 cloves minced (optional but recommended!)
• Italian seasoning: 1 tablespoon, or other herbs of choice. Try this homemade Italian Seasoning Mix.
• Salt: ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt.

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Microwave-safe bowl (for melting butter)

How to Make Buttery Air Fryer Croutons

1. Melt the butter in a small microwave-safe bowl (about 30 seconds).
2. In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed bread. Pour the melted butter over the bread, then add garlic, seasoning, and salt. Toss well until everything is evenly coated.
3. Place the croutons in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Work in batches if needed—this helps them cook evenly.
4. Air fry at 400°F for 3 minutes. Shake the basket to toss the croutons, then air fry for another 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they don’t over-crisp or burn.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
6. Let cool completely before storing (if they last that long!).

That’s it! Crunchy, buttery, and done in under 10 minutes.

Storage

Store your homemade croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Or you can store them in the freezer for up to 3-6 months (less is better to maintain flavor). When ready, defrost at room temperature. Toss in the air fryer again for about 1-2 minutes to get them crispy again.

Why This Recipe Works

• Fresh: Skip the preservatives and enjoy that fresh, homemade flavor.
• Customizable: Use your favorite herbs or spices – rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, or even a sprinkle of parmesan.
• No waste: This is my favorite way to use up day-old bread. I bake Sourdough Bread every week, and this keeps us from wasting even a crumb.
• Fast!: Seriously, under 10 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute salad toppings.

Delicious Ways to Use Croutons

• Salads: The classic move! Try them on this Kale Quinoa and Blueberry Salad , Roasted Squash Salad, or a simple arugula salad with this homemade hummus dressing, or honey dijon dressing.
• Soups: Swap out crackers and toss in a few croutons instead. They’re delicious in this Butternut Squash Soup or Roasted Tomato Soup.
• Casseroles: Use them in place of breadcrumbs on dishes like baked curried cauliflower or mac and cheese. That buttery crunch takes it up a notch.
• Snacking: I keep a jar of these in my office. Let’s just say they don’t last long. 😉

These homemade buttery croutons are simple, flavorful, and a bit irresistible! Let me know if you try them and how you like to season yours!