Croûtons

Make homemade croutons from scratch with this simple, customizable recipe.

1 loaf bread, cut into ¾" cubes (~12 oz)
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tsp. Italian seasoning or other herbs
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. fine sea salt
½ tsp. black pepper, freshly cracked

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C/170°C fan, Gas Mark 5). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.

In a large bowl, whish together the oli and seasonings. Add the bread cubes and toss until well-combined.

Spread the bread cubes out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake until golden, turning once halfway through cooking in order to brown all sides of the croutons. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the cubes, so watch to be sure that they do not burn. (Mine generally take between 10-15 minutes.)

Remove from the oven, and let cool completely. Use immediately, or store in an air-tight container for up to 1 week.