Croutons are the crunchy gems that can elevate any salad or soup. Making them at home means you can use any bread you have on hand, and they’re so simple to prepare. This recipe will help you transform leftover bread into golden, flavorful bites that add the perfect crunch to your favorite dishes.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Cut a loaf of bread into 3/4-inch cubes, or tear it into similarly sized pieces, ensuring uniformity for even cooking.
- In a large bowl, drizzle 1/4 cup of olive oil over the bread cubes. Add 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 3/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Gently toss the bread cubes in the bowl until they are well-coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the croutons for 15-20 minutes, turning them once halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread (approximately 12 ounces), cut into 3/4-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, either homemade or store-bought
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
FAQ
- What type of bread is best for making croutons?
- You can use any variety of bread for croutons, ideally at least a day or two old. This includes options like gluten-free bread.
- What are some recommended seasonings for croutons?
- Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper are staples, but you can customize with Italian seasoning, blackening seasoning, or even sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top.
- How should I cut the bread for croutons?
- Dice the bread into uniform cubes, either with a knife or by tearing them by hand, to ensure even cooking.
- How long do homemade croutons last?
- Once cooled to room temperature, store them in a sealed container. They will last up to 2 weeks.
- What can I use homemade croutons for?
- Croutons are perfect for adding to salads, topping soups like tomato or gazpacho, and they can even be used in stuffings or casseroles.
- Can croutons be transformed into breadcrumbs?
- Yes, you can crush croutons using a rolling pin or a food processor to make breadcrumbs.
Tips
- Uniform Sizing for Even Cooking: Ensure that the bread cubes are cut to a uniform size to help them cook evenly. This prevents some croutons from becoming overcooked while others remain underdone.
- Adjust Baking Time for Desired Crispiness: Keep an eye on the croutons as they bake, as cooking time can vary based on cube size. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the oven temperature and extend the baking time to achieve your preferred level of crispiness.
- Season to Taste: Customize your croutons with your favorite seasonings. While garlic powder, salt, and pepper are classic choices, feel free to experiment with Italian seasoning, blackening spices, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
- Storage Tips: Allow croutons to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their crisp texture and they can be stored for up to a week.
