🍞 Easy Air Fryer Bread (Small Loaf)

Makes: 1 small loaf (4–6 slices)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Rise Time: 45–60 minutes
Cook Time: 18–22 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

🧾 INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp sugar

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tsp instant yeast

• ½ cup warm water (about 105–110°F / warm, not hot)

• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

👩‍🍳 INSTRUCTIONS

1️⃣ Make the Dough

1. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.

2. Add warm water and oil.

3. Stir until a soft dough forms.

2️⃣ Knead Briefly

• Knead by hand for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
  (You’re not looking for perfection—just no dry flour.)

3️⃣ First Rise

1. Lightly oil the bowl.

2. Cover and let rise 45–60 minutes, until doubled.

4️⃣ Shape the Loaf

• Shape into a small oval or round loaf.

• Place on air fryer parchment paper or lightly greased foil.

5️⃣ Air Fry

1. Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.

2. Cook bread for 18–22 minutes.

3. Flip halfway if your air fryer heats strongly from the top.

Bread is done when:

• Golden brown

• Sounds hollow when tapped

• Internal temp ~190–200°F (optional)

6️⃣ Cool

• Let cool 10 minutes before slicing (important!).

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?

A: Yes. Dissolve it in the warm water with sugar first and let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Q: Why is my bread dense?

A: Most common reasons:

• Water was too hot (killed yeast)

• Not enough rise time

• Too much flour

Q: Can I make it whole wheat?

A: Yes—replace ½ the flour with whole wheat. Add 1–2 tbsp extra water.

Q: Can I add herbs or cheese?

A: Absolutely!

• Garlic powder or Italian seasoning

• Shredded cheddar or parmesan

• Everything bagel seasoning on top

Q: Do I need a pan?

A: No. This is a free-form loaf, perfect for small air fryers.

Q: How do I store it?

A:

• Room temp: 1–2 days (wrapped)

• Fridge: up to 5 days

• Freezer: up to 2 months (slice first)

Q: Can I double the recipe?

A: Yes, but cook one loaf at a time for even results.