How to Make Homemade Croutons

Homemade croutons are a great way to use bread that is no longer fresh.  In fact, the croutons are better if the bread is several days old.   With a few ingredients and a couple of steps, you can re-purpose bread creating a wonderful topping.  Croutons add the perfect crunch to salads and soups or they are delicious as a snack on their own.

Even though I have cooked for many years, I have never made croutons.  However, the other day I found myself with leftover bread that was not fresh, and I needed croutons for a Caesar salad.  The timing was perfect for me to develop a recipe for croutons.  Honestly, I could kick myself for not having made them before because they are delicious and so easy to make. 

Next time you find yourself with stale bread, give this recipe a try!   I bet you will not go back to store-bought.  Let me know how you like them!

Ingredients for Homemade Croutons

Bread: Bread that has air pockets in it and that is not dense works the best.  Examples of this type of bread include French bread or sourdough.  However, if you have odds and ends of various kinds of bread, cut them up and make croutons.  The bread can be cut into cubes or torn into pieces.

Spices: I like to use Herbs de Provence however any combination of the following spices would work well: Italian seasoning, thyme, rosemary, or oregano.  Try your favorite spice!  If you use fresh herbs double the amount called for in the recipe. 

Granulated Garlic: This is an essential ingredient for homemade croutons.  You can substitute garlic powder.  If you wish, you can also use one teaspoon fresh pressed or minced garlic.  However, add it to the oil before distributing it on the bread. 

Garlic Oil: I prefer the taste of olive oil when making croutons.  Canola or vegetable oil work but they will not add any flavor.

Salt and pepper: Homemade croutons need to be seasoned with salt and pepper so be sure to use them.

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1. Combine spices, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the spice blend and oil to the croutons.
3. Toss bread cubes with the spice blend and oil. Be sure that all the bread cubes are coated with oil.
4. Distribute the bread cubes on a parchment-lined sheet pan (affiliate link).
5. Bake for 10-15 minutes until lightly brown.

Enjoy the croutons tossed in a salad, as a garnish for soup, or eat them for a snack. The spices and garlic add delicious flavor to them!

Tips for Success

1. Homemade croutons are best made with bread that is several days old.
2. Be sure the bread cubes are evenly coated with oil.
3. Combine the herbs and seasoning before adding them to the croutons so that they can be evenly distributed. 
4. Watch the croutons closely while they are baking so that they do not burn.

Substitutions/Variations

Homemade croutons lend themselves to a variety of different spices. The following would be great options: Italian seasoning, thyme, rosemary, oregano, or sage. If you do not have any of these spices use something you have at home. You can also your favorite spice or spice blend! For added heat, add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the spice mix.

Storage Suggestions

Store the homemade croutons in a sealed container.  Use them within three days. 

Croutons can be frozen for a month.  Be sure to thaw them and “freshen” them by placing them in a 225°F oven for 5-10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions for Homemade Croutons

Croutons can be served with the following:

1. Green salads
2. Soups (especially tomato soup)
3. Topping on casseroles
4. In scrambled eggs
5. They are great in a snack mix with pretzels and nuts or to snack on their own! 

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Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but we have endeavored to be as accurate as possible.