How to Make Gluten Free Croutons step by step complete Guide
Learn how to make crispy, golden, and flavorful gluten-free croutons at home. Perfect for salads, soups, or snacking, this easy recipe is ready in minutes!
Why Make Gluten-Free Croutons at Home?
If you’re gluten intolerant or following a gluten-free lifestyle, finding crunchy croutons for soups and salads can be tricky. Store-bought versions are often pricey and may contain additives. The good news? Making homemade gluten-free croutons is quick, budget-friendly, and tastes even better than packaged ones.
These croutons are:
- 100% gluten-free
- Crispy, golden, and full of flavor
- Perfect for soups, salads, and snacks
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cups gluten-free bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (use your favorite brand or homemade bread)
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, or basil)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Cut gluten-free bread into small cubes. A day-old loaf works best since it’s slightly drier and crisps up beautifully.
Step 2: Season the Croutons
In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the bread cubes. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss well until every piece is coated.
Step 3: Bake Until Golden
Spread the bread cubes evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the croutons are golden and crispy.
Step 4: Cool and Store
Let the croutons cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week at room temperature.
Flavor Variations
One of the best parts about homemade croutons is how easy it is to switch up the flavors. Try these delicious ideas:
- Italian Style: Toss with basil, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Pumpkin Spice: Add pumpkin spice seasoning—perfect for topping fall soups like acorn squash.
- Spicy Kick: Drizzle with Sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Taco Croutons: Season with taco seasoning for a fun Tex-Mex twist.
- Ranch Flavor: Use a ranch seasoning blend (like those from Trader Joe’s or Penzeys) for a zesty option.
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 5–7 days.
- Freezer Option: Freeze croutons in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Re-crisp them in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes before serving.
Instruction
- Preheat your oven to 325ºF.
- Cut the gluten-free bread slices into small cubes.
- Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl.
- Melt the butter in a microwave-safe dish (about 10 seconds), then drizzle it over the bread cubes. Sprinkle with salt.
- Toss until all cubes are evenly coated.
- Spread the cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 7 minutes, then remove and stir.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 7–8 minutes, until golden and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Any brand of gluten-free bread works well. For this recipe, I used Franz Multigrain, but many other brands are just as good.
- To make it dairy-free, substitute vegan butter and be sure your gluten-free bread is also dairy-free.
- Store croutons in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Calories: 156 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 16 mg
- Sodium: 285 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Vitamin A: 194 IU
- Calcium: 54 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make croutons in the air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through, for perfectly crisp croutons.
Q: What’s the best gluten-free bread for croutons?
Day-old gluten-free sandwich bread, sourdough, or baguette-style loaves work best.
Q: Can I make them vegan?
Absolutely—just use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cheese.
