If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and indulgent dessert or snack, these Air Fryer Nutella Toast Pies are perfect. Combining the gooey richness of Nutella with the crispy texture of toasted bread, this treat is both easy to prepare and satisfying. The air fryer provides a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods while delivering a golden, crispy exterior that complements the warm, creamy Nutella filling.
Why Make Nutella Toast Pies in the Air Fryer?
Making Nutella toast pies in the air fryer comes with several advantages:
- Speed: The air fryer cuts cooking time in half, allowing you to enjoy your snack in just a few minutes.
- Crispy Perfection: The air fryer ensures an even, golden-brown finish without the need for oil.
- Easy Clean-Up: With minimal equipment required, there’s less mess to clean up.
- Healthier Option: Compared to deep-fried treats, air-fried toast pies are a lighter choice.
Whether you’re preparing an after-school snack for the kids or a sweet indulgence for yourself, the air fryer helps you create these treats with minimal effort.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Nutella Toast Pies
To create these delectable Nutella toast pies, you’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients, most of which you likely have at home:
- 4 slices of white or whole wheat bread
- 4 tablespoons of Nutella (or any hazelnut spread of your choice)
- 1 egg (for sealing and crisping)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
- Cooking spray or melted butter
These basic ingredients come together to form a warm, melty filling inside a crispy, toasted shell.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Nutella Toast Pies
1. Prepare the Bread
Start by laying out your bread slices on a clean surface. Using a rolling pin, gently flatten each slice of bread. This step is important because it helps the bread crisp up evenly in the air fryer and makes it easier to fold and seal around the filling.
2. Add the Nutella Filling
Spread about one tablespoon of Nutella onto each slice of flattened bread, keeping the filling away from the edges to prevent overflow during cooking. If you want to get creative, you can add banana slices, strawberries, or marshmallows alongside the Nutella for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Fold and Seal the Toast Pies
Once the Nutella is spread, fold each slice of bread in half diagonally to form a triangle. Press the edges together gently to seal. To ensure the pies stay closed during cooking, use a fork to crimp the edges. This not only seals the filling but also gives the toast pies a decorative finish.
4. Prepare the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat the egg and lightly brush the top of each Nutella toast pie with the egg wash. This will give the pies a beautiful golden color when air-fried. If you prefer, you can brush the pies with melted butter instead of the egg wash for a richer flavor.
5. Air Fry the Nutella Toast Pies
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with melted butter. Arrange the Nutella toast pies in the basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
Cook the pies for about 5-7 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The toast pies should be golden brown and crispy on both sides. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the Nutella toast pies from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. For an extra touch, dust the tops with powdered sugar or drizzle some chocolate syrup. Serve with fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for a more indulgent experience.
Variations on Nutella Toast Pies
While Nutella is the star of this recipe, there are plenty of ways to switch up the flavors and fillings to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Peanut Butter & Jelly Toast Pies: Swap out the Nutella for peanut butter and add a dollop of your favorite jelly or jam. This makes for a nostalgic and delicious twist.
- Cream Cheese & Berries: Spread cream cheese on the bread and add fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a fruity, tangy option.
- Chocolate & Marshmallow: For a s’mores-inspired version, fill the toast pies with chocolate chips and mini marshmallows before air frying.
- Savory Toast Pies: If you prefer a savory treat, you can replace Nutella with cheese, ham, or even pizza toppings like pepperoni and mozzarella. The air fryer will still deliver a perfectly crispy finish.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Nutella Toast Pies
To ensure your Nutella toast pies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overloading the bread with too much Nutella, as this can lead to messy leaks during cooking.
- Seal Properly: Make sure the edges are sealed tightly to keep the filling inside.
- Use Fresh Bread: Fresh, soft bread is easier to work with and will yield a crispier result.
- Experiment with Fillings: Get creative with your fillings! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Conclusion: A Quick and Delicious Treat
Air Fryer Nutella Toast Pies are an easy-to-make, delicious snack or dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth in no time. With their crispy exterior and rich Nutella filling, these little pies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Best of all, they come together in minutes and can be customized with a variety of fillings to suit your preferences. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Nutella version or want to try a new twist, the air fryer makes it simple and fun to whip up these tasty treats.