Today I'll go through one of my go-tos for using up bread ends: homemade croutons.
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Where to Start
A few days ago we picked up our new stand up freezer. Happy Dance! I finally got a chance to fill and organize it yesterday. While doing so, I came across my full bag of bread ends that I'd been ignoring forgetting about for the last while.
When we made the switch to strictly homemade bread, I found I was always left with the end pieces. We usually cut as little off the ends as possible to maximize the actual loaf for toast, fresh slices, etc. Not wanting to throw these pieces away, I decided to put them to good use.
My Love Affair With Croutons
Firstly, I make sure I have breadcrumbs in the freezer. We use them more often, and they're easier to make. Just throw the bread in your food processor, whiz 'em, then store them in a container in the freezer.
Since I have 2 full containers right now, the next best thing is croutons! I must say, I get a lot of compliments on these. Of course I think they're better than store bought, but maybe it's the taste of money saving.
How To Make Your Own
I'll walk you through the process I use. It's very simple and straight forward. In about 20-30 minutes you can have fresh croutons to top your salad and smother with ranch a super trendy, low fat vinaigrette.
All you need is some bread (stale is fine), bread knife and cutting board, a bowl, olive oil and spices, baking sheet and oven.
Get all your supplies together, preheat your oven to 350 and get cookin'!
Tasty Croutons – Step One
First, cut all your bread into the desired size then place them in a bowl big enough to toss around.
Tasty Croutons – Step Two
Next, drizzle with a healthy amount of Olive Oil, sprinkle on your desired spices, and toss to coat. I like using salt, pepper, oregano, garlic powder and onion powder.
Wondering where I got my awesome oil bottles? Hubby bought them for me for my birthday and I added the chalkboard washi tape! Here's similar ones.
Tasty Croutons – Step Three
Spread your bread cubes out on a baking sheet. It's okay if they're piled up a bit. Next, pop 'em in the oven. Set your timer for 10 minutes, but keep an eye on the edges. They can get pretty dark if there's not a lot on the pan, or if there's a lot of crumbs.
Check your croutons after the first 10 minutes. You'll want to move them around, especially if there's a lot on the pan. Set your timer for 5 more minutes and check again. Use your discretion at this point. If there's some that are still soft, go with an additional 3 minutes. If you think they're nice and golden, take them out.
Tasty Croutons – Step Four
Now just to let them cool and store in an air-tight container for easy access!
Enjoying Your Croutons
So there you have it. In three easy steps you can have yummy, frugal (free) croutons. Pile them on your next salad for added flavour and crunch or just eat them straight up. Put them in a cute container to serve to guests.
This content was created by original creator of this website, Katelynn Hegedus.
Did you try them? Have your own recipe? Let me know what you think!