Description
Homemade croutons are a simple and delicious way to transform leftover or stale bread into crunchy, flavorful bites perfect for soups, salads, or snacking. This recipe features seasoned croutons with olive oil, garlic, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper, baked to golden crispness. They store well for weeks, making them ideal for make-ahead use during gatherings or everyday meals.
Ingredients
Croutons
- 8-10 slices bread (about 4 oz / 113 g per 8-10 slices)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or a neutral oil
- ½ teaspoon fine salt (such as table salt)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika (optional)
- Generous dash cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cube Bread: Cut the bread slices into 1-inch cubes and transfer them into a large mixing bowl, preparing them for seasoning.
- Season Bread: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the bread cubes while gently tossing them. Sprinkle in the salt, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and cracked black pepper. Toss thoroughly to coat all the cubes with the seasoning blend.
- Arrange for Baking: Spread the seasoned bread cubes evenly on the prepared sheet pan, making sure they form a single layer to allow for even crisping.
- Bake Croutons: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the croutons turn golden brown and achieve a crispy texture. For softer croutons, reduce baking time to 15 minutes.
- Cool and Store: Remove the croutons from the oven and allow them to cool completely before use. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 to 3 weeks, maintaining their freshness and crunch.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for best texture; fresh bread may yield softer croutons.
- Feel free to substitute olive oil with any neutral oil like avocado or canola oil.
- Adjust seasoning amounts to suit personal taste preferences.
- Add other herbs such as dried thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for variety.
- Store croutons in an airtight container to keep them crisp longer.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
