Homemade Crunchy Croutons

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Total Time

25 minutes

Servings

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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