If you're looking to whip up a tasty snack that's both easy to make and family-friendly, then look no further than bloomer bread bites. This delightful recipe is not just straightforward but also perfect for air frying, creating a crispy crust with minimal effort. Bloomer bread, with its fluffy crumb and characteristic crust, forms the perfect base for these scrumptious bites.
Ingredients
- 1 large bloomer bread loaf
- 100g cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 50g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Begin by slicing the bloomer loaf into 2-inch thick slices, then cut each slice into bite-sized cubes. Ensure the pieces are even for consistent cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
- Brush each bloomer bread cube generously with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the bread cubes. For a more decadent touch, you can mix the cheese with a bit of mozzarella or any cheese of your choice that melts well.
- Arrange the prepared bread bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this will prevent even cooking.
- Air fry the bread bites at 180°C (350°F) for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the bites from the fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or your favourite dip.
Tips and Variations
To make these bloomer bread bites even more enticing, consider adding a sprinkle of chilli flakes for a spicy kick or a light dusting of Parmesan cheese for added richness. For those who love herbs, a bit of rosemary or thyme can also add an aromatic twist.
These bites are also quite versatile when it comes to accompanying dishes. Whether as a party canapé, a side to your soup or salad, or simply a standalone snack, they promise to please. And if you're entertaining, they make an impressive addition to any appetizer platter.
Equipment Needed
One of the greatest conveniences of this recipe is that it requires minimal equipment. All you'll need is:
- A good quality air fryer that can hold your desired amount of bites for quicker cooking.
- A small mixing bowl for the garlic butter.
- A sharp knife and cutting board for slicing the bloomer loaf.
- A pastry brush for applying the butter mixture generously and evenly.
With these tools and this simple recipe, you'll be on your way to creating a delightful treat that's sure to become a new favourite in your household. Enjoy the simplicity of air frying and the satisfaction of making a delicious homemade snack that's both quick and gratifying.