Croutons are just crusty pieces of bread used to add flavor and texture to dishes like salads and soups. The great thing about croutons is that they can be made out of pretty much any leftover bread you have at home. They are also incredibly versatile. You can keep them plain to highlight the bread’s natural taste, add salt, or add your favorite combination of herbs and spices to take your croutons to the next level. After just three (3) simple steps you’ll have a perfect complement for dishes like this roasted butternut squash soup.

Ingredients you’ll need

Deli & Breads

• White bread, challah loaf, baguette, brioche buns, yeast rolls, sweet Hawaiian rolls, etc. (this works with almost any kind of bread so choose your favorite)

Baking & Pantry Items

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Parsley flakes
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil

Equipment you’ll need

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)

How to make croutons

Step #1 – Break bread into large chunks

The pieces should be close to the same size so they will bake evenly, but there’s no need to be a perfectionist. Ripping the bread apart works just the same as dicing it carefully with a knife. It also gives the croutons a more rustic finish with more nooks and crannies for the flavor to slip into. Be careful not to squish the bread pieces completely flat as this will speed up baking time and potentially lead to burned pieces.

Step #2 – Toss in oil and seasonings

Use a good quality olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and dried herbs. Using fresh garlic and herbs is an option, but since the point is to be drying everything out anyway, the powdered versions work perfectly!

Step #3 – Bake until bread is dried out and crispy

The oven should be preheated to 350ºF (175ºC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup then spread out the seasoned bread pieces in a single layer. Bake for 10-15 minutes, checking and shaking the pan occasionally to prevent any one side from burning. The croutons will continue to dry out once they’re out of the oven so don’t be too worried if they are browned to your liking but aren’t completely dried out.

How to store croutons

Homemade croutons are best stored loosely covered but not in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture. They are best up to a week after making them.

Other ways to flavor your croutons

• Leaving the croutons completely plain is definitely an option! Just toss in oil and bake
• Sprinkle plain croutons with a little bit of sea salt right after taking them out of the oven
• Grate fresh parmesan over the croutons right out of the oven
• Toss in oil and 1/2 teaspoon of cajun seasoning before baking
• Toss in oil and warming spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and/or cardamom before baking (great with fall soups like pumpkin soup or butternut squash soup)

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