Homemade Croutons

Ingredients

• 12 oz bread (see note) (cut into ½” cubes, about 7-8 cups)
• 4 Tablespoons olive oil
• 4 smashed garlic cloves or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon fine flaky sea salt ((or just use table salt!))
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 Tablespoons parmesan cheese (grated (optional))

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 375F (190C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.

2. 2

   Place bread in a large bowl and drizzle olive oil over top. Use a spatula to gently toss together until all bread cubes have been lightly moistened.

3. 3

   Add garlic, italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and cheese (if using) and use your spatula to gently toss all ingredients together until seasoning is well distributed over the bread cubes.

4. 4

   Spread bread evenly over prepared baking sheet and bake in center rack of 375F (190C) (use 350F/175C if baking an enriched bread like brioche) preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until all bread pieces are firm and crisp.

5. 5

   Allow to cool before using (they should be more crisp after cooling).