3 Ways to Make Croutons Without Stale Bread

Do you ever desire lovely toasted and seasoned croutons, but don’t have time to run to the store to buy boxed or bagged croutons? If you have a fresh loaf of bread, or even one that is not fresh but not quite ready to throw away or feed to the birds, you can turn several slices (or the whole loaf) into croutons without stale bread (the traditional way to make croutons).

If you want to make your own tasty croutons without waiting for bread to mature and dry out, here are 3 ways to make croutons without stale bread:

1. Fast Way to Make Croutons Without Stale Bread
– Cut the bread into cubes (1/2-inch is a good size).
– Toast cubes in the toaster oven tray until they are lightly browned.
– Spread on baking sheet and spray liberally with butter-flavored or olive oil-flavored cooking spray.
– Sprinkle with ground oregano or thyme, celery salt, garlic powder, or other ground herbs of choice (powdered Italian dressing or parmesan is good, too).

2. Classic Way to Make Croutons Without Stale Bread
The classic way to make croutons is to sauté bread cubes in butter and herbs until browned. Don’t know about you, but I have a hard time controlling which cubes absorb the butter, and my result is usually uneven. Therefore, I prefer either the fast way to make croutons or the alternative way to make croutons, noted below.

3. Alternative Way to Make Croutons Without Stale Bread
Another option is to spread the bread on both sides with butter and herbs, then cut into cubes and toast in the oven:

Bake seasoned bread cubes in a preheated 350°F oven for 12-15 minutes and stir occasionally for even browning. When golden brown and dry, remove and let cool. Store croutons in airtight container or heavy duty Ziploc-style plastic storage bag. Can also be stored in freezer (allow a few minutes at room temperature before using).

Great Toppers & Garnish
Any way you decide to make seasoned croutons, they are great on salads and in soups to add some crunch, flavor, and a little garnish. I wouldn’t be surprised to find these instructions on how to make croutons without stale bread in your family cookbook or recipe box. Enjoy!

Happy Cookbooking,

Erin

About Erin Miller

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2 Comments

  1. this is really cool. thanks for posting. do you know of a way to make croutons without oil?

  2. That’s really cool. Thanks for posting. Do you know of a way to make croutons without oil?

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