Description
These homemade croutons are crispy, flavorful bread cubes seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic powder, perfect for adding crunch and taste to your salads or soups. Made easily in the oven, they offer a fresh alternative to store-bought croutons.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread, cut into ¾ inch cubes
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Toss the bread cubes: Place the 4 cups of bread cubes in a large bowl. Drizzle them evenly with 1/3 cup olive oil and toss to coat all pieces well. Add 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and black pepper to taste. Mix again to ensure the bread cubes are evenly seasoned.
- Arrange for baking: Spread the coated bread cubes out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded to allow even crisping.
- Bake the croutons: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Toss the croutons halfway through cooking to promote even browning, and watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Cool before serving: Once golden and crispy, remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet before using or storing.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best texture and crunch in your croutons.
- Customize seasoning by adding dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or paprika for different flavor profiles.
- Store cooled croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Use gluten-free bread to make gluten-free croutons if needed.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
