Air Fryer Crostini is a simple yet impressive way to elevate any gathering, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes in the air fryer, you can whip up a crunchy, golden snack that’s endlessly versatile. This recipe is all about quick prep and big flavor with minimal effort, making it the perfect addition to your appetizer lineup.
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Affiliate, if you purchase through those links, I earn a small commission. Thank you!
I love making crostini because it’s a stress-free way to create something impressive for any occasion. It’s the perfect snack that’s both simple and satisfying, whether you’re preparing for a festive holiday appetizer or a game day snack. I can make a big batch ahead and keep them crisp in a container until it’s time to serve. They’re quick to pull together and let me spend more time with friends instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need all the ingredients shown in the photograph below.
How to Make Air Fryer Crostini with Step-By-Step Instructions
Scroll down for the full recipe card containing a full printable recipe and measurements in both US customary and metric units.
Follow my simple instructions, and you’ll find making crostini quick and easy.
Preparing the Baguette Slices
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Slice the baguette into thin, even slices, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
Use a serrated knife for clean cuts and to prevent squishing the bread. I like using this serrated bread knife because it glides through the crust without tearing. A sturdy wooden cutting board also provides a stable surface, making it easier to keep your slices neat and steady while you work.
Aim for uniform thickness to ensure all slices toast evenly.
Brush with Olive Oil
Arrange thin baguette slices in a single layer on the air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t overlapping to ensure even cooking.
Brush both sides of each baguette slice with extra-virgin olive oil to help them crisp up beautifully. I always grab this silicone basting brush to make oiling both sides quick and mess-free.
Air Fry Until Golden
Bake the oiled baguette slices in the preheated air fryer for 5-6 minutes. I use my basket-style air fryer for this because it has enough space to cook the slices fully without overlapping.
DO MORE WITH YOUR
AIR FRYER
This eBook is a collection of 86 recipes I make again and again in my own kitchen. If you love good food and easy instructions, this book was made for you.
Immediate eBook download. No physical book available.
Includes ad-free recipes like:
∙ Cheesy Egg Bites
∙ Broccoli Cheddar Soup
∙ Asparagus Casserole
∙ Crack Chicken Casserole
∙ Coffee Cake
...and much more!
Keep an eye on them; they should turn golden and crispy.
Season and Serve
Once they’re out of the air fryer, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the warm crostini. I transfer them to a porcelain serving dish before salting, so I don’t make a mess all over the counter.
Serve immediately or let them cool before storing. Enjoy!
If you’re serving these at a gathering or bringing them to a potluck, I pack my sliced bread inside this food container with a lid and handle to prevent breakage during the drive. Then, I tuck it into an insulated casserole carrier to keep it warm until we’re ready to eat.
How to Make Air Fryer Crostini
Add Preferred SourceEquipment
Ingredients
- 1 baguette thinly sliced on the bias
- Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Arrange thinly sliced baguette pieces in a single layer on the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Brush both sides of each slice with extra-virgin olive oil.1 baguette, Extra-virgin olive oil
- Place the basket in the air fryer and cook for 5-6 minutes or until the slices are golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- Once done, remove the crostini from the air fryer and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Serve right away or let them cool completely before storing.Flaky sea salt
Notes
- Bread Choice: A fresh French baguette gives the best flavor and texture, but any crusty bread will work. Even a slightly stale loaf crisps up beautifully once sliced into little toasts.
- Oil evenly: Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil for an even, golden-brown crunch. Don’t skimp, this step makes all the difference!
- Batch Tip: When cooking in batches, keep finished crostini on a tray in the oven at low heat so they stay crisp until serving.
- Air Fryer Space: Place the baguette slices in a single layer in the air fryer. If they overlap, some may turn out soggy instead of crispy.
- Salt While Warm: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on the crostini right after they come out of the air fryer. The warmth helps the salt stick and adds a perfect finishing touch.
- Serving Fresh: When serving, try topping with creamy spreads and a sprinkle of fresh basil for that classic Italian appetizer touch.
- Cooling and Storage: Let the crostini cool completely before storing so they keep their crunch. If they’re piled up while still warm, they can soften, so spread them out first before packing them away.
Nutrition
DO MORE WITH YOUR
AIR FRYER
This eBook is a collection of 86 recipes I make again and again in my own kitchen. If you love good food and easy instructions, this book was made for you.
Immediate eBook download. No physical book available.
Includes ad-free recipes like:
∙ Cheesy Egg Bites
∙ Broccoli Cheddar Soup
∙ Asparagus Casserole
∙ Crack Chicken Casserole
∙ Coffee Cake
...and much more!
Recipe Notes and Expert Tips
Here are a few of my favorite tips to make sure your crostini turns out perfectly every time:
- Bread Choice: A fresh French baguette gives the best flavor and texture, but any crusty bread will work. Even a slightly stale loaf crisps up beautifully once sliced into little toasts.
- Oil evenly: Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil for an even, golden-brown crunch. Don’t skimp, this step makes all the difference!
- Batch Tip: When cooking in batches, keep finished crostini on a tray in the oven at low heat so they stay crisp until serving. I use a rimmed baking sheet that holds the crostini in place without them sliding around and fits easily on the oven rack.
- Air Fryer Space: Place the baguette slices in a single layer in the air fryer. If they overlap, some may turn out soggy instead of crispy.
- Salt While Warm: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on the crostini right after they come out of the air fryer. The warmth helps the salt stick and adds a perfect finishing touch. I like using this sea salt grinder so the flakes land nicely and light on top.
- Serving Fresh: When serving, try topping with creamy spreads and a sprinkle of fresh basil for that classic Italian appetizer touch.
- Cooling and Storage: Let the crostini cool completely before storing so they keep their crunch. If they’re piled up while still warm, they can soften, so spread them out first before packing them away.
How to Store Leftovers
Once the crostini have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. I always put the remaining bread slices into these airtight glass containers that stack neatly in my pantry, keeping everything crunchy. To keep their crispiness, avoid refrigerating.
If they soften slightly, a quick reheat in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes will bring back the crunch. This recipe is not suitable for freezing, as the texture will change too much once thawed.
What to Serve With Crostini
Crostini is a versatile base that pairs beautifully with a wide range of favorite toppings. Try a classic tomato bruschetta for a fresh and tangy bite, or top with creamy goat cheese and a drizzle of honey for something a bit richer.
They’re also perfect with a smear of whipped ricotta, a dollop of savory tapenade, or a slice of smoked salmon for a fancier touch.
Don’t forget, they make a fantastic crunchy side for a soup or salads, adding texture to your meal. For a party platter, serve them alongside a creamy dip or a cheese board to really impress your guests!
More Easy Recipes for You to Try at Home
Here are more simple and delicious air fryer recipes that are perfect for quick and easy meals.
