Classic Croutons
Crispy, buttery cubes for elevating any soup or salad
Why This Recipe Works
Stale bread is ideal here as it cuts cleanly and crisps up faster than fresh slices. These buttery cubes provide a reliable textural contrast to velvety soups or crisp garden greens.
Instructions
Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 350°F.
Toss the bread cubes with the melted butter in a large bowl until evenly coated, then season with salt and pepper.
Spread the bread in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
Bake until the croutons are golden brown and crisp, 20 to 25 minutes, stirring them halfway through to ensure even browning.
Cool the croutons completely on the baking sheet before serving.
🍽️ Complete the Meal
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this recipe?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Bread can be cubed and left out overnight to dry out before baking.
What substitutions can I make?
- unsalted butter: extra-virgin olive oil
