This Air Fryer Egg Toast is the ultimate morning shortcut. With a crispy exterior and soft, buttery bite, it’s a satisfying, mess free spin on the classic egg in a hole. You only need a few minutes and simple ingredients to whip it up no skillet required. It’s the kind of breakfast that feels nostalgic yet refreshingly modern thanks to the convenience of the air fryer.
Whether you’re fueling up for a busy day or slowing down on a Sunday morning, this toast brings cozy comfort with every bite. The runny yolk paired with toasted, golden brioche creates a harmony of textures and flavor that’s irresistible. Perfect on its own or with a side of bacon or fruit, it’ll be your go-to breakfast in no time.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 slices of brioche or preferred bread
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2 large eggs (Grade A or farm-fresh)
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2 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
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Kosher salt, to taste
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Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Directions:
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Use a sturdy glass to press a well into the center of each bread slice without tearing it. Gently use your fingers to shape the indent to fit an egg.
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Spread a thin layer of softened butter on each slice of bread, covering the whole surface evenly.
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Place a rack in your air fryer basket to raise the bread closer to the heating element. Spray it lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
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Crack each egg into a small ramekin or bowl, being careful not to break the yolk.
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Carefully pour one egg into each bread well. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper.
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Air fry at 375°F for 6 minutes for a runny yolk (over-easy), or up to 8 minutes for a firmer yolk.
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Remove carefully with a spatula and serve hot.
Prep Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 minutes | Total Time: 8 minutes
Kcal: 140 kcal | Servings: 2
The Irresistible Charm of Air Fryer Egg Toast: A Modern Twist on a Classic Favorite
There’s something undeniably comforting about starting your morning with a warm, buttery slice of toast cradling a perfectly cooked egg. Whether you’ve heard it called egg in a hole, eggs in a basket, or toad in the hole (though technically, that last one is a different dish in the UK), this nostalgic breakfast favorite has made its way into kitchens for generations. But with the rise of air fryer cooking, this traditional recipe has been reimagined with a modern twist that’s faster, cleaner, and even more delicious: Air Fryer Egg Toast.
A Little History: The Origins of “Egg-in-a-Hole”
The concept of cooking an egg in the center of a slice of bread has been around for centuries, though no one really knows where it originated. Some food historians trace versions of it back to 19th-century cookbooks. Over time, it has taken on many names: Egg in the basket, Gas House Eggs, Egg with a Hat, and even One-Eyed Jack. Whatever you call it, the heart of the dish is simple bread with a hole in the center, filled with an egg and cooked until crispy on the outside and soft and runny (or firm) in the center.
What has always made this dish so popular is its simplicity, both in ingredients and preparation. It requires only basic pantry staples and can be whipped up in minutes, making it a favorite among both children and adults. It’s also endlessly adaptable, easily dressed up with cheese, herbs, or vegetables to suit different palates.
Why the Air Fryer Method Works So Well
Enter the air fryer a kitchen appliance that has revolutionized the way we cook. Known for delivering crispy, golden textures with minimal oil and mess, air fryers are ideal for recipes like this one. Traditional egg-in-a-hole is typically cooked on the stovetop in a skillet, which requires careful attention to avoid burning the bread or undercooking the egg. The air fryer simplifies that balancing act.
Using the air fryer means:
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No flipping required. The egg stays perfectly centered in the bread without the risk of it spilling out.
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Even cooking. The hot air circulates around the toast, delivering a uniform golden crisp on the outside.
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Less cleanup. No oil splatter, no extra pans just place everything in the air fryer basket and go.
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Customization at its best. Because air fryers cook quickly and evenly, it’s easy to experiment with different toppings and additions without compromising the toast or egg quality.
Additionally, the air fryer’s rapid cooking times mean that even on the busiest mornings, a warm and nourishing breakfast is within reach in under 10 minutes.
Perfect for All Ages and Occasions
Air Fryer Egg Toast is a dish that transcends age. For kids, it’s fun and familiar like breakfast with a built-in smile. The novelty of the egg nestled in the toast is engaging, and parents love that it delivers protein and energy without needing extra effort.
For adults, it’s a nostalgic throwback that still satisfies, especially when elevated with artisan bread, farm-fresh eggs, and toppings like avocado, microgreens, or smoked salmon. It’s perfect for:
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Quick weekday breakfasts.
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Brunch gatherings.
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Late-night snacks.
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Meal prep (yes, you can make and reheat egg toast!).
It also pairs beautifully with sides like crispy bacon, roasted potatoes, or a simple salad, making it versatile enough to move from breakfast to lunch or even a light dinner.
Creative Customizations to Try
One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is how easy it is to tailor it to your preferences. Whether you’re someone who loves a runny yolk or prefers a more firm texture, the air fryer allows you to adjust the timing to get exactly what you want.
But don’t stop at eggs and toast. Here are some fun variations:
Cheese, Please
After the egg has cooked, add shredded cheese like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or gruyère on top and let it melt in the residual heat of the air fryer. The melty cheese adds a savory depth and richness that elevates the entire bite.
Avocado Upgrade
After cooking, add sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole on top. Sprinkle with red chili flakes and a squeeze of lime for a trendy, health-conscious twist.
Everything Bagel Style
Before air frying, sprinkle the toast and egg with everything bagel seasoning. The sesame, poppy seeds, garlic, and onion bits give it a bold, flavorful crunch.
Sweet Meets Savory
Brush the bread with a thin layer of honey or maple syrup before adding the egg, then top with crumbled bacon post-cooking. This sweet-and-savory combo is unexpectedly addictive.
Mediterranean Flair
Top with chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta, and fresh basil after cooking. This makes a great brunch or light lunch idea that feels elegant but takes no time.
Nutritional Benefits and Dietary Flexibility
Air Fryer Egg Toast isn’t just quick and delicious it’s also a relatively healthy meal, especially if you’re conscious about what goes into your breakfast. Eggs are rich in protein, vitamin D, and essential amino acids. Depending on the bread and butter used, you can adjust the recipe for various dietary preferences.
For example:
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Use whole grain bread for added fiber.
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Opt for gluten-free bread for those with sensitivities.
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Choose vegan butter and egg alternatives for a plant-based version.
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Use low-sodium butter or seasonings if watching salt intake.
Because it’s so customizable, this dish can easily be made more indulgent or more health-conscious, depending on your needs. It’s also a great way to incorporate vegetables, herbs, or alternative proteins.
A Cozy Ritual, Reinvented
Beyond the ingredients and the process, there’s a sense of ritual and nostalgia tied to egg toast. For many, it’s one of the first dishes they learned to cook. Now, with the convenience of the air fryer, that tradition continues into adulthood, adapted to modern lifestyles. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for the family or treating yourself to a solo weekend brunch, this dish delivers on all fronts: speed, taste, comfort, and joy.
Conclusion:
If you haven’t tried making egg in a hole in your air fryer yet, you’re truly missing out on one of the most satisfying and low-maintenance meals out there. It’s fast enough for weekday mornings but comforting enough to feel like a treat. Its versatility means you can customize it endlessly, and its simplicity makes it accessible even to beginner cooks.
What makes Air Fryer Egg Toast so appealing is how effortlessly it combines practicality with delight. It takes a familiar childhood favorite and transforms it into a modern, mess-free meal that can suit nearly every diet or preference.
In a world of complicated recipes and busy schedules, sometimes all we need is a little slice of comfort with an egg right in the center.