Transform your leftover bread into crispy, golden croutons with this quick and easy recipe. Perfect for adding a delightful crunch to soups and salads, these homemade croutons are a simple way to elevate your dishes. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a batch ready in no time. Let’s get started!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Cut your day-old bread into 3/4-inch cubes. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, drizzle the bread cubes with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the mixture until the bread is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the croutons, turning them once halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Cooking time may vary but usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Once baked, remove the croutons from the oven and allow them to cool completely. They can be served immediately or stored 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 olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (either homemade or store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
FAQ
- Can I use any type of bread to make croutons?
- Yes, you can use any variety of bread, including gluten-free options. It’s best if the bread is at least a day or two old.
- What kind of seasonings can I add to croutons?
- The choice of seasonings is entirely up to you. Common choices include garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and blackening seasoning. You can also add Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- How do I ensure that my croutons cook evenly?
- Make sure to cut or tear the bread into uniform pieces so that they cook at the same rate. Toss them well with oil and seasonings before spreading them out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- How can I store homemade croutons and how long do they last?
- Once the croutons have cooled to room temperature, store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
- What are some ways to use homemade croutons?
- Croutons can be used to top salads, particularly Caesar salads, and soups like tomato soup or gazpacho. They can also be used in stuffings and casseroles, especially during the holiday season.
- Can homemade croutons be used as breadcrumbs?
- Yes, you can crush homemade croutons using a rolling pin or food processor to make breadcrumbs.
Tips
- Ensure uniformity in bread cube size to promote even cooking and prevent some from becoming overly crispy while others remain soft.
- Experiment with different seasoning blends, such as Italian or blackening seasoning, and consider adding Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Monitor the croutons closely during baking to prevent them from burning; adjust the oven temperature if needed to achieve the desired level of crispiness.
- Store completely cooled croutons in an airtight container to maintain their crunchiness for up to a week.
Equipment
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet (if you don’t already have one)
- Large mixing bowl (if you don’t already have one)
- Chef’s knife (for cutting bread, if you don’t already have one)
- Air-tight storage container (if you don’t already have one)
