### Easy Croutons Recipe: How to Make Homemade Garlic Butter Croutons

Croutons are a delightful addition to any salad, soup, or even as a savory snack on their own. This easy croutons recipe will guide you through the steps to……

Croutons are a delightful addition to any salad, soup, or even as a savory snack on their own. This easy croutons recipe will guide you through the steps to create delicious homemade garlic butter croutons that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can elevate your meals with these tasty bites.

#### Ingredients:

- 4 cups of day-old bread, preferably a rustic loaf like sourdough or baguette

- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter

- 2 tablespoons of olive oil

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning (optional)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

#### Instructions:

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that the croutons will bake evenly and become perfectly crispy.

2. **Prepare the Bread**: Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes. Using slightly stale bread is ideal because it holds up better during baking and becomes crunchier. If your bread is fresh, you can dry it out by leaving it uncovered overnight or by toasting it lightly in the oven.

3. **Make the Garlic Butter**: In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the olive oil and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned. If you prefer a more intense garlic flavor, you can add an extra clove or two.

4. **Season the Bread**: Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the bread, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the bread cubes. Toss everything together until the bread is well-seasoned. For an extra layer of flavor, you can also add a handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese at this stage.

5. **Bake the Croutons**: Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure there is enough space between the cubes so they can crisp up properly. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy. Stir the croutons halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.

6. **Cool and Store**: Once the croutons are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling process helps them to become even crunchier. Once cooled, store the croutons in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week, making them a convenient addition to your meals.

#### Tips for Perfect Croutons:

- **Bread Choice**: While any bread can technically be used, rustic loaves like sourdough, ciabatta, or baguettes provide the best texture and flavor for croutons. Avoid using overly soft bread as it may not hold up well during baking.

- **Seasoning Variations**: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste. Herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil can add a unique twist. For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or paprika.

- **Oil and Butter Ratio**: The combination of butter and olive oil gives the croutons a rich flavor and crispy texture. However, you can adjust the ratio based on your preference or dietary needs. For a lighter option, use more olive oil and less butter.

- **Storage**: If you find yourself with leftover croutons, you can extend their shelf life by freezing them. Place the cooled croutons in a resealable plastic bag and freeze for up to three months. To use, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until they are crispy again.

By following this easy croutons recipe, you can create homemade garlic butter croutons that will enhance any dish. Whether you're topping a Caesar salad, adding crunch to a bowl of soup, or enjoying them as a snack, these croutons are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful combination of garlic, butter, and perfectly toasted bread with every bite!