Description
These homemade croutons are the perfect crunchy addition to salads, soups, or as a tasty snack. Made with simple ingredients like olive oil and garlic powder, they are baked to golden perfection and easy to prepare in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Croutons
- 1 bread loaf (about 12 ounces, cut into 3/4-inch cubes)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Bread Cubes: Place the bread cubes into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the cubes, then sprinkle the garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper evenly. Gently toss with your hands until all the cubes are well coated with the seasoning and oil.
- Arrange and Bake: Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning the cubes once halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness and golden color.
- Cool and Crisp: Remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling step helps them crisp up fully for the best texture. Once cooled, use immediately or store in an airtight container.
Notes
- You can use any type of bread, such as French, sourdough, or whole grain, depending on your preference.
- For extra flavor, consider adding dried herbs like thyme or oregano before baking.
- Store croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- To make croutons gluten-free, use gluten-free bread cubes instead.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if you prefer a spicier or milder flavor.
