Make Crunchy Croutons At Home Using 6 Key Steps

By Devi Poojari

July 2, 2024

Considered one of the best ways to repurpose leftover bread, croutons add texture to soups, salads or even when used as a foundation for appetisers. Relish their satisfying crunch by skipping the store-bought version to make a fresh batch at home.

STALE BREAD

Opt for leftover loaves of breads like sourdough or focaccia to convert into crisp croutons.

MIX WELL

Once you coat cubes of your bread in some kind of a fat, make sure that the seasonings are evenly distributed.

BAKE AT 175°C

The Maillard reaction needed to give croutons a golden-brown shade gives it a complex aroma and flavour at this temperature.

AVOID BUTTER

Use fats like olive oil, lard or bacon fat to toss your stale bread cubes in and get the most perfectly crisp croutons.

USE A BAKING SHEET

Save your fancy ceramic and stoneware dishes and use a trusty old aluminium baking sheet for even heat distribution.

SEASON GENEROUSLY

Never underestimate the delicious effect of a well-seasoned crouton; opt for flavours from herbs, garlic or even some lemon zest.