Transform your salads, soups, and snacks with these irresistible Spicy Croutons, perfect for adding a bold crunch to any dish. Made from day-old bread, these golden, oven-baked bites are infused with the robust flavors of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne pepper for just the right amount of heat. A dash of dried oregano, salt, and black pepper perfectly balances the spice and savoriness, while olive oil ensures crispy, golden perfection. With only 10 minutes of prep time and a quick 15-minute bake, these customizable croutons are a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their culinary creations. Whether you're garnishing a creamy soup or jazzing up a Caesar salad, these zesty croutons are the ideal finishing touch. Plus, they store beautifully, so you can enjoy them all week long!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes, aiming for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a spiced oil mixture.
Add the bread cubes to the mixing bowl, tossing them gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the spiced oil.
Spread the coated bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they have a bit of space between them for proper crisping.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, tossing halfway through to ensure even browning. The croutons are ready when they are golden brown and crisp.
Remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet before serving or storing.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Calories |
2879 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 61.7 g | 79% | |
| Saturated Fat | 10.4 g | 52% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 5948 mg | 259% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 481.5 g | 175% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.0 g | 75% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.5 g | ||
| Protein | 77.3 g | 155% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 410 mg | 32% | |
| Iron | 24.5 mg | 136% | |
| Potassium | 885 mg | 19% | |
*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.