Hey y'all! If you've ever craved that perfectly crunchy, golden morsel to crown your salads or soups, you're in for a treat. Crispy Homemade Croutons are hands-down one of the easiest and tastiest upgrades you can make in your kitchen. They’re buttery, outrageously crunchy, and brimming with flavor. Whether you’re dressing up a Caesar salad, topping off a creamy soup, or just want a snack to nibble on, these homemade croutons hit the spot every time. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This
- The texture is incredibly crunchy on the outside and soft in the center.
- They’re easy to customize with your favorite herbs and seasonings.
- Perfect for using up stale bread and reducing food waste.
- Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Adds delicious flavor and crunch to salads, soups, or even enjoyed as a snack!
Ingredients
- 4 cups (about 200g) day-old bread, cut into ¾-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cube the Bread
Use a serrated knife to cut your bread into ¾-inch cubes. Try to keep them uniform so they cook evenly.
Step 3: Season the Croutons
In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil and melted butter over the bread cubes. Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until every piece is well coated.
Step 4: Bake
Spread the seasoned cubes out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the croutons are golden brown and crisp.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the croutons to cool completely on the pan—they’ll crisp up even more as they cool. Enjoy immediately or store as instructed below!
Notes
- Day-old or slightly stale bread works best as it holds its shape and crisps better.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; give your croutons enough space for air to circulate and crisp them up.
- Check croutons during the final minutes of baking to avoid burning—some ovens run hot.
Variations
- Parmesan Croutons: Add ¼ cup grated Parmesan before baking for cheesy flavor.
- Spicy Croutons: Sprinkle ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
- Herb-Infused Croutons: Use fresh rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist.
Required Equipment
- Cutting board and serrated knife
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven mitts
Storage Instructions
Let the croutons cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Re-crisp in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes if needed before serving.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Classic Caesar or garden green salads
- Top off tomato soup, creamy potato soup, or French onion soup
- Use as a crunchy topping for casseroles or roasted veggies
- Snack on them straight—no shame!
Pro Tips for the Best Croutons
- Use a mix of olive oil and butter for extra flavor and golden crispness.
- Toss the bread cubes thoroughly—with your hands is best—to make sure each piece is coated.
- Let the croutons cool completely before storing so they stay perfectly Crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What bread is best for homemade croutons?
A sturdy, crusty bread like sourdough, French bread, or an Italian loaf works best. Avoid extra soft sandwich breads for optimal crunch.
Can I make croutons gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute your favorite gluten-free bread and follow the recipe as written.
Why are my croutons not crunchy?
If your croutons are soft, they may have been overcrowded on the baking sheet or not baked long enough. Spread them out and bake until deeply golden and crisp!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: 25-28 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 cups (about 200g) day-old bread, cut into ¾-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
-
2Use a serrated knife to cut your bread into ¾-inch cubes. Try to keep them uniform so they cook evenly.
-
3In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil and melted butter over the bread cubes. Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until every piece is well coated.
-
4Spread the seasoned cubes out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the croutons are golden brown and crisp.
-
5Allow the croutons to cool completely on the pan—they’ll crisp up even more as they cool. Enjoy immediately or store as instructed below!
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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