- Prepare the Bread:
- Cut the bread into approximately 1-inch cubes. If the bread isn’t stale, you can briefly toast it in the oven or in the air fryer to dry it out a bit, which helps it absorb the custard better.
- Make the Custard Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the bread cubes to the custard mixture, pressing down to ensure they are fully submerged. Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes so the bread soaks up the custard.
- Stir in raisins or dried cranberries if using.
- Prepare the Dish:
- Lightly grease a baking dish that fits in your air fryer. Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Cook in the Air Fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
- Place the dish in the air fryer and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top of the pudding is golden brown.
- Check for Doneness:
- The bread pudding should be firm to the touch and not jiggle. Insert a knife or toothpick in the center to check if it comes out mostly clean.
- Serve:
- Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce for added sweetness.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bread Pudding:
- Bread Choices: Different types of bread can alter the texture and flavor of your bread pudding. Denser breads like brioche or challah give a richer texture.
- Air Fryer Size: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to adjust the cooking time or batch size.
- Customization: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even small pieces of fresh fruit like apples or pears to the mixture for additional flavors and textures.
Enjoy your air fryer bread pudding as a cozy dessert, perfect for when you want something sweet without too much fuss. It’s a quick and comforting treat!