Transform your favorite soups and salads with the irresistible crunch of homemade cornbread croutons! This quick and easy recipe is the perfect way to repurpose day-old cornbread, turning it into crispy, golden cubes with a savory seasoning blend of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. Gently toasted in the oven, these croutons boast a tender center and a crunchy exterior that adds a delightful texture to any dish. Whether scattered over a hearty bowl of chili or tossed into a fresh salad, these cornbread croutons bring a down-home twist to traditional toppers. Ready in just 25 minutes, theyβre as simple to make as they are delicious to enjoy!
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Cut the cornbread into 1-inch cubes. Aim for consistent sizes to ensure even cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Stir until well mixed.
Add the cornbread cubes to the bowl and gently toss them in the seasoned oil mixture, ensuring all the cubes are evenly coated without breaking them apart.
Spread the seasoned cornbread cubes onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they arenβt overcrowded.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then gently flip the cubes with a spatula to ensure even browning.
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the croutons to cool completely; they will crisp up further as they cool.
Serve immediately as a topping for soups or salads, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Calories |
3435 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 172.2 g | 221% | |
| Saturated Fat | 33.2 g | 166% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 288 mg | 96% | |
| Sodium | 6944 mg | 302% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 387.4 g | 141% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.1 g | 72% | |
| Total Sugars | 96.2 g | ||
| Protein | 48.8 g | 98% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 971 mg | 75% | |
| Iron | 15.1 mg | 84% | |
| Potassium | 1500 mg | 32% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.