Description
Crunchy, flavorful homemade croutons made with day-old bread, olive oil, and aromatic Italian herbs. Perfect for salads, soups, or snacking, these easy-to-make croutons bring a delightful texture and taste to your meals with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Croutons
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread (French, sourdough, or any rustic bread)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, thyme, and basil)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the croutons.
- Prepare Bread Cubes: Cut the day-old bread into small, even-sized cubes about 3/4 inch thick to ensure uniform cooking.
- Toss Bread with Oil or Butter: In a large mixing bowl, coat the bread cubes thoroughly with olive oil or melted butter for crispiness and flavor.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper over the bread cubes, then toss again to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Optional Cheese: If desired, add grated Parmesan cheese and toss once more to incorporate a savory cheesy flavor.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to allow even baking.
- Bake: Bake the bread cubes for 12–15 minutes, tossing them halfway through the baking time to ensure they brown evenly and become crisp.
- Cool and Store: Once golden brown and crisp, remove the croutons from the oven, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for best texture and absorption of flavors.
- Adjust seasonings to your preference; feel free to add paprika or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Ensure bread cubes are spread in a single layer to bake evenly and crisp up properly.
- Store croutons in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness.
- These croutons are versatile—great in salads, soups, or on their own as a snack.
