When it comes to elevating a humble salad or adding crunch to a comforting bowl of soup, few things do the job as effortlessly as croutons. Store-bought varieties might get the job done in a pinch, but nothing beats the flavor and texture of homemade croutons—crisp on the outside, slightly chewy inside, and seasoned just the way you like them.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make perfect homemade croutons from scratch, along with variations to match any dish or craving. Plus, we’ll answer common questions and share pro tips for getting them just right.
Why Make Croutons at Home?
Making croutons at home takes just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes. You also get full control over the texture, flavor, and quality of the bread used. Whether you’re using leftover sourdough, a day-old baguette, or even gluten-free bread, the result is a crispy, golden bite that’s far superior to anything bagged on a shelf.
Ingredients
- 4 cups day-old bread (cubed into 1 to 2 cm pieces)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter for richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: grated Parmesan, paprika, chili flakes
Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Cut your bread into evenly sized cubes. Uniform pieces help ensure consistent crunch and prevent burning.
3. Season the Cubes:
In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, herbs, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is evenly coated. For extra flavor, sprinkle with Parmesan or a pinch of chili flakes.
4. Bake Until Golden:
Spread the cubes in a single layer on your baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Bake until golden and crisp.
5. Cool & Store:
Let the croutons cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They’ll keep at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Best Breads for Croutons
While almost any bread works, these options yield especially delicious results:
- Sourdough: Offers great texture and a slight tang.
- French baguette: Thin crust and tight crumb make for crisp, elegant croutons.
- Whole wheat: Adds a nutty depth and extra fibre.
- Brioche or challah: Slightly sweet, ideal for creamy soups or autumn salads.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Croutons: Toss with grated Parmesan before baking.
- Spicy Croutons: Add cayenne or smoked paprika for heat.
- Buttery Garlic Croutons: Swap olive oil for melted butter and sautéed minced garlic.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme before baking for an earthy twist.
How to Use Homemade Croutons
- Sprinkle over Caesar salad or mixed greens
- Add to tomato or pumpkin soup for crunch
- Use as a topping for baked casseroles or mac and cheese
- Crush and use as breadcrumbs for coating or stuffing
Pro Tips for Perfect Croutons
- Use stale bread: It absorbs oil better and crisps more evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the tray: Give each cube space to brown.
- Store properly: Cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess.
- Refresh leftovers: Pop them in a hot oven for 3–5 minutes if they soften.
Homemade croutons are the kind of low-effort, high-reward recipe that transforms everyday meals into something memorable. With endless ways to customize and a virtually foolproof method, they’re a must-have for any home cook looking to add crunch, flavor, and charm to their dishes.
Whether you toss them on a salad, drop them into soup, or snack on them straight from the jar (we won’t judge!), you’ll never go back to store-bought once you try these golden nuggets of goodness.
