Homemade Crunchy Croutons
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Servings
4
Yield
4 cups
Calories
Approximately 150 calories
tep into the world of homemade perfection with these Easy Homemade Crunchy Croutons.
Made from simple ingredients, these croutons bring a delightful crunch and a golden touch to any dish they accompany.
Whether tossed into a fresh salad or sprinkled over a hearty soup, their buttery texture and rich flavor profile make every bite memorable.
This recipe offers a creative outlet for using up leftover bread, transforming it into something spectacular.
Ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned kitchen veterans, these crunchy croutons are a testament to the magic of homemade simplicity.
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread cubes (preferably 1-inch cubes from a day-old baguette or sourdough)
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter (for richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for a hint of garlic)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano) for added flavor
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil or melted butter, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and any optional dried herbs, tossing again to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden and crispy, stirring once halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Let the croutons cool before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Tips & Tricks
- For extra crunch, let the bread cubes air dry for a few hours before baking.
- Experiment with different types of bread for unique flavor profiles.
- Store croutons in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness.
Mise en Place
Ingredients
Utensils
- Bread cubes
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Dried herbs (optional)
- Large bowl
- Baking sheet
- Measuring spoons
- Oven
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