Homemade Garlic Olive Oil Croutons Recipe
This recipe for Homemade Croutons is a simple and delicious way to add crunchy texture and savory flavor to your salads, soups, and snacks. With just a few basic ingredients—bread, olive oil, garlic, and salt—these croutons are easy to prepare and perfect for elevating any dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups of croutons 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (preferably day-old or slightly stale bread)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Start by cutting the bread into roughly 1/2-inch cubes to ensure they toast evenly and develop a crisp texture.
- Toss with Olive Oil and Garlic: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, and salt. Toss everything thoroughly so each piece is evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
- Bake the Croutons: Spread the coated bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the croutons turn golden brown and crispy. Make sure to toss or stir them halfway through baking for even crispiness.
- Cool and Store: Remove the croutons from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cool, use them immediately or store in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better texture and absorption of olive oil.
- You can customize flavors by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley during the tossing step.
- Keep an eye on the croutons towards the end of baking to avoid burning.
- Store homemade croutons in an airtight container to keep them crunchy.
Keywords: homemade croutons, garlic croutons, baked croutons, salad toppings, crunchy snacks