Air Fryer Apple-Bacon French Toast Cups Recipe

Name: Air Fryer Apple-Bacon French Toast Cups
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 3/4 cup whole milk; 3 eggs; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 5 slices bacon, crisp-cooked; 4 cups (3/4-inch) brioche cubes; 1 medium Honeycrisp apple, finely chopped; 1/4 cup chopped pecans

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 8

Ingredients:

3/4 cup whole milk
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
5 slices bacon, crisp-cooked
4 cups (3/4-inch) brioche cubes
1 honeycrisp apple, finely chopped
1/4 cup chopped pecans

Directions:

In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, instant espresso powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Cook 3 slices of bacon until crispy, then crumble them into small pieces.
Add the brioche cubes, chopped honeycrisp apple, and crumbled bacon to the custard mixture. Toss everything together until the brioche is well coated.
Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the brioche to soak up the custard mixture.
Divide the soaked brioche mixture evenly into 8 silicone muffin cups, making sure the cups are very full. Top each portion with chopped pecans.
Place the muffin cups in an air fryer basket, working in batches as needed. Cook at 350F (180C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the French toast cups are puffed and golden. The centers should register 165F (74C) on an instant-read thermometer.
Once cooked, remove the muffin cups from the air fryer and let them cool for 10 minutes.
While the cups are cooling, break the remaining 2 slices of bacon into 8 small pieces. Top each French toast cup with one piece of bacon for added flavor and crunch.

Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Line 8 (2 1/2-inch) muffin cups with paper or silicone liners. Prepare the mixture as directed and bake for 15-18 minutes until puffed and golden. The centers should register 165F (74C) on an instant-read thermometer.

To Store: Chill the French toast cups in an airtight for up to 3 days. To reheat, air-fry at 350F (180C) for 5 minutes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 191
Fat: 11g (14% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 4g (20% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 105mg (35% Daily Value)
Sodium: 300mg (13% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates: 16g (6% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 8g
Protein: 8g (15% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 1mg (1% Daily Value)
Calcium: 53mg (4% Daily Value)
Iron: 1mg (6% Daily Value)
Potassium: 157mg (3% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Air Fryer Apple-Bacon French Toast Cups

The Air Fryer Apple-Bacon French Toast Cups are a modern twist on a classic breakfast dish that has its roots in European cuisine. French toast itself, known in France as "pain perdu," dates back to the Middle Ages, where stale bread was soaked in a mixture of milk and eggs to reduce waste while creating a rich, satisfying meal. The American adaptation added elements like cinnamon, sugar, and often fruit, turning it into a sweet, comforting morning favorite. The addition of bacon and apples in this recipe reflects the American penchant for combining savory and sweet flavors, while the air fryer preparation showcases the contemporary focus on convenience and healthier cooking techniques.

Regional Variations and Features

This dish is particularly popular in the United States, especially in regions known for brunch culture like the Northeast and Pacific Northwest. Apples, such as Honeycrisp, are commonly grown in northern states, making them a natural choice for regional recipes. Bacon, a staple in many American breakfasts, adds a salty contrast that balances the sweetness of the custard-soaked brioche. While similar French toast cups might appear in other countries, the specific combination of air fryer technology, apples, pecans, and bacon is distinctly American, blending local produce with modern cooking methods.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional French toast baked in a pan, these cups are individual servings cooked in an air fryer, producing a crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft and custardy. The inclusion of espresso powder and pecans elevates the flavor complexity, setting it apart from standard sweet French toast. Whereas other breakfast pastries like muffins or quiches may share ingredients such as eggs and bread, the unique layering of sweet, savory, and nutty elements in this recipe gives it a distinct identity.

Where Its Commonly Served

Air Fryer Apple-Bacon French Toast Cups are versatile and can be served in a variety of settings. They are popular in home kitchens for weekend breakfasts or brunch gatherings due to their convenience and visual appeal. They are also featured in cafs and brunch spots that emphasize innovative breakfast offerings. Their individual size makes them ideal for buffet-style service or casual entertaining, allowing guests to enjoy a gourmet-tasting dish without complicated plating.

Interesting Facts and Tips

Air fryer French toast cups cook faster than traditional oven-baked versions while using less oil, making them a healthier alternative.
The combination of bacon and apple mirrors classic American flavor pairings, reminiscent of Waldorf-inspired dishes and breakfast staples.
Espresso powder is used to subtly enhance the sweetness without adding a strong coffee taste, creating a layered flavor profile.
While brioche is recommended for its rich texture, other types of bread like challah or even sturdy sourdough can be substituted to change the dishs texture.
These cups can be prepared ahead of time, chilled, and then quickly reheated in the air fryer, making them practical for meal prep or busy mornings.

FAQ about Air Fryer Apple-Bacon French Toast Cups Recipe

The French Toast Cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they are fully cooled before storing to maintain freshness.

Yes, you can freeze the French Toast Cups. To do so, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, air-fry at 350°F (180°C) for 6-8 minutes.

To reheat, place the French Toast Cups in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.

Yes, you can prepare the custard mixture with the brioche, apple, and bacon the night before. Simply refrigerate it, and then proceed with the recipe the next morning by dividing the mixture into the silicone muffin cups and cooking as directed.

If you don’t have a Honeycrisp apple, you can substitute with any variety of apple that holds up well when cooked, such as Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith apples. These will all provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

Yes, you can substitute brioche with other types of bread like challah, French bread, or even whole wheat bread. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold up to the custard mixture.

While the recipe calls for an air fryer, you can also bake the French Toast Cups in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), and bake for 15-18 minutes until puffed and golden. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the centers have reached 165°F (74°C).

If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon or substitute it with a plant-based bacon alternative. Alternatively, you can use sautéed mushrooms for a savory flavor or even add extra nuts like walnuts or almonds.

It typically takes 10-12 minutes in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for the French Toast Cups to become golden and puffed. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) in the center.