Homemade Croutons

There’s something incredibly satisfying about homemade croutons. Those crispy, golden-brown cubes of bread add the perfect crunch and flavor boost to salads, soups, and even snacks straight from the bowl. While store-bought croutons are convenient, nothing beats the fresh, customizable taste and texture of croutons made right in your own kitchen. Plus, you can tailor the seasoning to your preference and avoid any unnecessary additives or preservatives.

This recipe is simple, uses everyday ingredients, and is a fantastic way to breathe new life into slightly stale bread. Whether you have a rustic sourdough loaf or a soft ciabatta, these croutons will elevate your dishes and keep you coming back for more.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Making croutons at home is not only economical but also incredibly easy. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create croutons that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility — you can adjust the herbs and spices or the type of bread you use to perfectly suit your taste.

By using slightly stale bread, you’re reducing food waste, and the cubes hold their shape better when toasted. The olive oil and garlic powder combination provides a rich, savory base, while the dried oregano adds an herby touch that complements a wide range of dishes. These croutons are perfect for tossing onto a classic Caesar salad, sprinkling over creamy tomato soup, or even enjoying as a crunchy snack.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of bread, cut or torn into ¾ inch cubes – about 12oz or 4 cups in total (preferably 1-2 days old bread). I used a rustic sourdough loaf, but ciabatta works wonderfully as well.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for that perfect crisp and golden color.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – imparts a lovely, savory garlic flavor without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – adds a fragrant, herby note.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors.

How To Make Homemade Croutons

Step 1: Prepare Your Bread

Start by cutting or tearing your bread into roughly ¾ inch cubes. Using bread that is a day or two old is ideal because it’s firmer and will crisp up nicely without becoming too soft or soggy. Rustic sourdough is my personal favorite for its texture and flavor, but ciabatta or any other crusty bread will work beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Seasoning

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, and salt. Stir well until the ingredients are evenly combined and fragrant. This simple seasoning blend is what makes these croutons so deliciously aromatic.

Step 3: Toss the Bread Cubes

Add the bread cubes to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly, making sure each piece of bread is evenly coated with the olive oil and spices. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. Make sure the cubes aren’t touching too much, so they crisp evenly.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Crispy

Bake the croutons for about 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep a close eye toward the end to avoid burning. The croutons should be golden brown and crispy when done.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the croutons cool completely. This helps them firm up even more. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container once cooled.

Expert Tips

• Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best texture. Fresh bread can become too soft and may not crisp well.
• Cut the bread into uniform cubes to ensure even baking.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give the cubes room to breathe and crisp up properly.
• Feel free to toss the croutons halfway through baking to promote even coloring on all sides.
• Adjust the seasoning to your liking—add a pinch of paprika or chili flakes for a spicy kick!
• Make sure to let the croutons cool completely before storing, or they may become soggy.

Variations and Customizations

• Herb Mix: Swap the dried oregano for Italian seasoning, dried thyme, rosemary, or basil for different flavor profiles.
• Cheesy Croutons: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast over the croutons right after baking for a cheesy twist.
• Spicy Croutons: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or chili flakes to the seasoning mix for some heat.
• Butter-Based: Swap olive oil for melted butter for a richer flavor, especially great on buttery garlic croutons.
• Sweet Option: For a sweet version, toss bread cubes with melted butter, cinnamon, and a little sugar before baking.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread cubes if you’re avoiding gluten—just be sure the bread isn’t too soft or fresh.

How to Store Leftovers

Once your croutons are completely cooled, store them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They’ll stay fresh and crispy at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the croutons in a sealed bag for up to three months. To use frozen croutons, simply toast or bake them briefly to restore their crispness before adding to your meal.

FAQ

Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?

While you can use fresh bread, slightly stale or day-old bread works best because it has less moisture and crisps up better. Fresh bread may become soft or chewy rather than crunchy.

What if I don’t have garlic powder? Can I use fresh garlic?

You can use fresh garlic, but it’s best to finely mince it and toss it with the bread cubes right before baking. Be careful not to add too much, as garlic can burn easily in the oven and turn bitter.

How do I make croutons without oil?

You can skip the oil, but the croutons won’t be as crispy or flavorful. Alternatively, use a cooking spray lightly on the bread cubes to help them crisp up with less fat.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses olive oil and dried herbs. Just be sure to avoid adding any cheese or butter if you want to keep it vegan.

Conclusion

Homemade croutons are a simple, flavorful way to enhance your everyday meals. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can transform ordinary bread into crispy, seasoned bites that add texture and taste to salads, soups, and more. This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to play with flavors and bread types to suit your mood and pantry. The next time you’re looking to add a little crunch to your dishes, skip the store-bought bags and whip up a batch of these easy, delicious homemade croutons — your taste buds will thank you!