Ingredients
Method
- 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.
- Store: Once cooled, store the croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Nutrition
Notes
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
- 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.
- 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.