Croutons may not be big on your culinary radar, but you sure know when they’re missing from a meal. Just think of eating a salad without those crunchy, herb-laden bits. Or perhaps pea soup sans croutons. Boooring!
When most of us want croutons, we simply grab a bag off the shelf in the grocery store. And those storebought things are all pretty serviceable. But if you want croutons that really stand out or need a particular kind — like gluten-free croutons — you’re far better off making them yourself.
Good news: Making croutons at home is amazingly easy. Especially if you have an air fryer. Here’s how.
It only takes a few simple ingredients to make homemade croutons:
- Bread of your choice (I use 6-7 slices)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive or oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper (1 teaspoon each, or to taste)
- 1/2 tablespoon dried herbs of your choice (parsley, basil, etc.)
To make, simply slice the bread into cubes, rectangles, or whatever shape you like. You can also cut into ovals as the traditional topping for French onion soup. Put the pieces in a mixing bowl, and then toss with the oil to make sure the cubes are coated. Then add the salt, pepper, and herbs, and toss well.
Put the croutons-to-be in an air fryer and cook at 400 degrees F for 10 minutes or until the croutons are to your liking. Shake the croutons periodically while they cook and check their color. And yes, you are allowed to nibble as you go, for testing purposes only, of course 😉
This can also be done in a traditional oven. Cook at 400 degrees, but toss more often. If you have a convection setting, use it.
In my air fryer, it only takes 8 minutes for crouton perfection.
Congratulations! You just made amazing croutons exactly how you want them, right in your own home.
