Prepare the Bread: Take your two slices of bread. Using a sharp knife or a round cookie cutter, cut a hole in the centre of one slice of bread, about 5-6 cm in diameter. This will be the window for your egg.

Butter Up: Lightly spread the softened butter on one side of both the whole slice of bread and the cut-out crust. This helps with browning and flavour. If using olive oil, drizzle lightly.

Assemble the Base: Place the whole slice of bread (butter-side down) into your air fryer basket. Carefully place the crust with the hole on top of the whole slice, aligning the edges. You're essentially creating a little well for the egg.

Add the Egg: Gently crack the egg directly into the hole in the top slice of bread. Try to keep the yolk intact. Season the egg with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese around the egg, covering the visible toast and some of the egg white.

Air Fry to Perfection: Close the air fryer and cook at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it after 5 minutes. You'll know it's done when the egg white is set and opaque, the yolk is cooked to your liking (runny to firm), and the toast is a beautiful golden brown with a delightful crunch, filling your kitchen with a savoury aroma. The cheese will be bubbling and melted, a lovely golden-amber colour.

Serve Immediately: Carefully remove the toast from the air fryer using a spatula. Garnish with fresh chives or dried parsley if desired. Serve straight away while the cheese is still wonderfully gooey and the toast is warm and crisp.