The Best Homemade Sourdough Croutons – Easy Recipe

Homemade Sourdough Croutons: They add the perfect crunch to salads and soups. You can make fresh croutons at home using just a few simple ingredients.

Making your own sourdough croutons is such a great way to turn leftover sourdough bread into something delicious and crunchy. Just imagine those crispy, golden brown cubes on your favorite salads or a warm bowl of tomato soup. 

Seasoning them with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or fresh thyme adds a kick of flavor that really makes a difference. 

Not only will you enjoy the best croutons ever, but you’ll also be reducing food waste in a tasty way. Plus, it’s super easy to whip them up, way easier than reaching for those store-bought croutons. 

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy: You only need a few simple ingredients to make these croutons at home. 
• Flavor-packed and easy to own: You can add whatever seasonings or cheeses you like, so you can really make them your own.
• Amazing crunch: These croutons add a great crunch to salads and soups, making your meals that much better.

What You’ll Need

INGREDIENTS

• 4 cups sourdough bread, cut into 1-inch cubes: This tangy base adds depth and character to your croutons.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil): Moistens the bread and helps seasonings adhere perfectly.
• 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that imparts a classic Italian flavor.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder Delivers a bold, garlicky kick.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: for enhancing the overall taste.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper: Another basic seasoning to elevate the flavor.

TOOLS

• Large bowl: for tossing the bread cubes with oil and seasonings.
• Sheet pan: for spreading the bread cubes out for even baking.
• Parchment paper (optional): To line the sheet pan for easy cleanup.
• Oven: For baking the croutons to golden perfection.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: for mixing the ingredients evenly.

How to Make Homemade Sourdough Croutons

Instructions:

• Store: Once cooled, store the croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Prepare the bread: Cut the sourdough bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in a mixing bowl.
• Add olive oil: Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil (or avocado oil) over the bread cubes.
• Season the croutons: Sprinkle in 3 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper.
• Toss to Coat: Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss the bread cubes until they’re evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
• Arrange on the baking sheet: Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overlapping for even baking.
• Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy. Stir halfway through to ensure even browning.
• Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the croutons cool completely.

Keep These Tips in Mind

• Use the right bread: Go for day-old sourdough bread for the best crunch. Stale bread holds up better in the oven and gives you that perfect crouton texture.
• Try different oils: Feel free to play around with flavored oils, like garlic or herb-infused ones, for an extra kick of flavor.
• Customize your seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings to match your taste. You can add grated cheese, chili flakes, or different herbs to switch things up.
• Keep an eye on those croutons: Ovens can vary, so watch your croutons as they bake. Take them out when they’re golden brown to prevent burning.
• Revive stale croutons: If your croutons lose their crunch, pop them back in a preheated oven for a few minutes; that’s how you get that crispy texture back.\

Serving

Toss these croutons into your favorite salads for some extra crunch—they’re perfect for Caesar, garden, or grain-based salads. You can also sprinkle them on a warm bowl of soup, like tomato or butternut squash, to add a nice texture contrast. For a quick snack, enjoy croutons on their own or dip them in hummus or guacamole. Plus, they make a great garnish for casseroles or creamy dishes, adding both crunch and a pop of color.

Storing Croutons

Keep croutons fresh by letting them cool completely before storing. This prevents moisture from building up. Use an airtight container to store them at room temperature; they’ll stay crispy for about a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll last for up to three months. When it’s time to use the frozen croutons, just thaw them out or throw them in the oven for a few minutes to get that crunch back.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions for Homemade Sourdough Croutons

• Different bread options: Switch up your bread! While sourdough is great, try ciabatta, baguette, or whole grain for new flavors and textures.
• Seasoning and flavor ideas: Get creative with seasonings. Use a Mediterranean mix with oregano and rosemary, or add cayenne pepper for heat. For a sweet twist, combine sugar and cinnamon with the oil. You can also mix in grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for a cheesy flavor.
• Extra crunch and spice: For added crunch, toss in chopped nuts or seeds, like pine nuts or sunflower seeds. If you like spice, mix in chili powder or hot sauce.
• Garlic and herbs: Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder, or add roasted garlic for more depth. Toss in fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, and chives for a garden-fresh taste.

FAQ

1. What seasonings work best for homemade croutons?
   • The basic crouton recipe uses Italian seasoning, but you can switch it up with other flavors. Toss in some onion powder, dried parsley, or black pepper for a different taste. Want a cheesy kick? Just sprinkle on some Parmesan cheese. If you’re up for it, add garlic powder or fresh garlic cloves to make garlic croutons. These sourdough croutons are super versatile and a great way to make boring salads more exciting, or you can use them in your homemade ranch or Caesar dressing.
2. Can I use store-bought sourdough bread for this recipe?
   • Absolutely! You can use store-bought sourdough bread if you don’t have day-old bread on hand. Just remember that using fresh bread might result in croutons that are a bit softer. For the perfectly crunchy croutons, ensure they’re dried out a little before baking. If you’re using slices of sourdough bread, cut them into cubes and follow the same instructions in the sourdough croutons recipe.
3. How can I make croutons extra crunchy?
   • Getting those croutons super crunchy starts with the right bread. Use stale sourdough bread for the best results. If your bread is fresh, let it sit out for a few hours to lose moisture. When it’s time to bake, grab a prepared baking sheet and spread the croutons out in a single layer. This ensures they crisp up evenly.
   • For a quicker option, the air fryer works wonders. Toss them in there for a few minutes, and you’ll have crunchy croutons ready to elevate your salads and soups. Enjoy the satisfying texture and flavor they bring to your meals.

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