Sourdough Croutons

If you bake sourdough at home, you already know that sometimes a loaf can go stale faster than expected. Instead of throwing it away, sourdough croutons are the perfect solution. Stale sourdough actually works better for croutons because it holds its shape and crisps up beautifully in the oven. Turning stale sourdough into sourdough croutons is one of my favorite ways to reduce food waste and make something delicious at the same time. Plus, homemade sourdough croutons taste so much better than anything you can buy at the store.

Ingredients for your Sourdough Croutons

You don't need that many items to make this recipe, but here is a quick list below for your convenience. You’ll need these five ingredients to make your sourdough croutons. You will also need a sheet pan and parchment paper for this recipe. Here’s your shopping list!

• Sourdough Bread

• Olive Oil

• Garlic Powder

• Onion Powder

• Salt

Tips for the best sourdough croutons!

Baking a sourdough croutons is easier than you would think. I'm here to give you all the tips and tricks to make the perfect croutons.

• Should I use fresh or stale sourdough : If you’ve got stale sourdough sitting on the counter, this is the perfect use for it. Slightly dry bread crisps up better and soaks in all the seasoning. It’s a great way to avoid tossing good bread.

• Do I need to remove the crust : Nope! The crust is actually one of the best parts. It adds extra crunch and flavor to your sourdough croutons.

• How much oil should I use : Just enough to lightly coat the bread. You don’t want the cubes swimming in oil, but you do want every piece to get a little love so they bake up golden and crispy.

• Can I change the flavor : Definitely. Garlic and onion powder are my go-to, but sourdough croutons are super flexible. Parmesan, smoked paprika, onion powder, or even a little chili flake are all great options.

• How do I know when they’re done : They should look golden and feel crispy. If you’re unsure, grab one and give it a taste. Quality control, right?

• How do I store sourdough croutons : Once they’ve cooled, toss them in an airtight container and keep them on the counter. They’ll stay good for about a week.

• Why this is a great way to reduce food waste : One of the best things about making sourdough croutons is that you’re not wasting that beautiful loaf you worked so hard on. Instead of throwing away stale sourdough, you can turn it into something crispy, flavorful, and perfect for salads, soups, or even just snacking.

Yield: 3 Cups

Author: Brittanie Owens

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Sourdough Croutons

Turning stale sourdough into sourdough croutons is one of my favorite ways to reduce food waste and make something delicious at the same time. Plus, homemade sourdough croutons taste so much better than anything you can buy at the store.

Prep time: 15 MinCook time: 18 MinTotal time: 33 Min

Ingredients

• 3 c Sourdough Bread
• 1/4 c Olive Oil
• 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 tsp Onion Powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Cube your sourdough. Bite-sized is perfect, but honestly rustic chunks make them even better.
3. In a bowl mix together your olive oil, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Place your bread pieces in a bowl and drizzle the oil seasoning on top.
5. Using a spatula toss the cubes around to ensure all of the cube are coating with oil and seasoning. ** If all of your bread is not evenly coated you can make more seasoning oil, drizzle, and toss again. However you don't want to drench your bread in oil. It should be lightly coated. Any excess oil can be saved for another dish.
6. Spread on a baking sheet and sprinkle with salt to taste. If you prefer to leave them unsalted you can.
7. Try not to crowd them so they crisp up nicely.
8. Bake for 12–18 minutes, tossing halfway through, until golden and crunchy.

Hi I’m Brittanie

Baking is my love language, and the kitchen is where I feel most at home. I find joy in creating recipes from scratch—experimenting with flavors, textures, and ingredients until something magical comes together. Whether it's the perfect flaky pie crust or a new twist on classic cookies, I love sharing that joy with others. For me, baking isn’t just about sweets (though I’m always down for a warm brownie); it’s about creativity, connection, and a little bit of everyday magic.