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Homemade Croutons

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Homemade Croutons are crispy, golden bites of seasoned bread that add irresistible crunch and flavor to salads, soups, and casseroles. Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, they are fresher and more flavorful than store-bought versions.

Ingredients

  • 6 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (French bread, sourdough, or sandwich bread)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, parsley, or Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter and toss gently to coat evenly.
  4. Sprinkle with garlic, salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or Parmesan cheese.
  5. Toss again to distribute the seasonings evenly.
  6. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 10–15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
  8. For extra crunch, bake a few additional minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  9. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before storing.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat or multigrain bread for a heartier texture.
  • Add smoked paprika or chili flakes for a spicy variation.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
  • If croutons lose crispness, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
  • For sweet croutons, toss with melted butter, cinnamon, and a little sugar instead of savory seasonings.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/homemade-croutons/