How To Make Homemade Croutons

With this simple, adaptable recipe, learn how to make homemade croutons from scratch using leftover bread.

Bread Croutons

If you’re looking to take your dishes to the next level, then I have just the thing for you – homemade croutons! These crunchy little bread cubes are so easy to make and can add some serious flavour and texture to your salads, soups or even as a crunchy topping to mac and cheese.

All you need is some leftover bread, olive oil, and whatever herbs or spices tickle your fancy. Once you’ve tossed everything together and baked them to toasty perfection, you’ll never go back to store-bought croutons again! So, why not give it a try and impress your dinner guests with your homemade croutons?

Salad Bread Cubes

Croutons bring an exciting textural contrast to the mix of fresh, crisp vegetables. They act as flavour carriers, soaking up the dressing and releasing it slowly as you chew. This means that each crouton becomes a tiny, tasty explosion of salad flavour.

Croutons For Soups and Stews

Homemade croutons offer an excellent way to enhance the flavours and textures of your soups and stews. Adding these crunchy little morsels can transform a simple dish into a culinary delight. They provide a satisfying contrast to the soft, comforting consistency of soups and stews, adding a layer of complexity to the overall dining experience.

Not only do they add a delightful crunch, but homemade croutons also absorb some of the broth, becoming little flavour bombs that burst with every bite. Plus, making them at home allows you to control the ingredients used, ensuring that they’re fresh, healthy, and tailored to your personal taste preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 Leftover Bread (Cut into cubes) I used white sourdough bread
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 tsp Italian Seasoning (or parsley)
• 1 tsp Fine Sea Salt
• ½ tsp Black Pepper

Recipe For How To Make Croutons

• Preheat the oven to 190℃fan/210℃/375℉.
• Add the bread cubes to a bowl and drizzle over the olive oil. Make sure all the cubes are covered. Evenly sprinkle over the seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Toss until fully combined.
• Transfer to a baking tray and spread them out to a single layer.
• Bake in the oven until golden. Turn halfway through baking. Keep an eye on them as they burn easily.
• Remove from the oven and leave to cool. Serve with soup or salads. Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze until needed.

Leftover Croutons

Storing leftover homemade croutons is a breeze, ensuring you can enjoy their delightful crunch anytime. Once they’re completely cooled, transfer them into an airtight container or a sealable plastic bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.

Stored properly, your croutons can last for one week at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the croutons in a freezer-safe bag, remove as much air as you can, and freeze. They can last up to 6 months this way.

To use frozen croutons, simply toast them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their signature crunch.