Cornbread Croutons

Who knew that just four ingredients could yield such a delightful treat as this cornbread crouton recipe? Also, and even more amazing, one of those ingredients is actually optional: You can leave out the garlic powder if you like.

When it comes to how to make cornbread croutons, we recommend you try these cornbread croutons just as the recipe describes, with the foundation being your favorite cornbread. You can make the cornbread from scratch, or you can use a store-bought mix.

Ingredients for Cornbread Croutons

• Cubed corn bread: If you’re making the cornbread from scratch, you’ll want to use a recipe that will yield a good cohesive bread, one that’s more solid than crumbly.
• Olive oil: Be generous with the olive oil, because it helps with the cohesion of the cubes as you slice the cornbread into croutons.
• Salt: Table salt is perhaps the simplest ingredient in the kitchen, but can you imagine trying to live without it?
• Garlic powder (optional): As noted, the garlic powder is not a requirement here, but it is highly recommended.

Directions

Step 1: Combine the oil, seasonings and bread cubes

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Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt and (if desired) garlic powder. Add the cubed cornbread and toss to coat.

Step 2: Bake the croutons

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Place the coated cornbread in a single layer on an ungreased 15x10x1-inch baking sheet, and bake the croutons for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown, stirring occasionally. Let the croutons cool, then store them in an airtight container.

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Cornbread Crouton Variations

• Add some pepper: Adding a few dashes of black pepper, or even some cayenne if you want to get exciting, infuses a bit of kick into these croutons.
• Sweeten it up: Mixing 1/2 teaspoon of sugar into the olive oil adds a sweetness many people will love.
• Everything but the bagel: Instead of salt, use this classic blend of seasonings to make some truly flavorful cornbread croutons.

How to Store Cornbread Croutons

These croutons can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Can you freeze cornbread croutons?

Yes, you can freeze these croutons for up to two months; just ensure they’re cooled to room temperature before you pack them away.

Cornbread Crouton Tips

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What should I serve with these croutons?

These croutons are great in your favorite salad, especially if you’re eating that salad as an accompaniment to a classic barbecue meal.

How do I stop my cornbread from crumbling?

To keep homemade cornbread from falling apart, try adding a dash more liquid to its batter to be sure it’s properly moistened. Additionally, don’t overmix your batter, and allow the cornbread to cool before you slice it.

Are there other seasonings that would be good on these croutons?

There are all sorts of different directions you can go with the flavor profile in this cornbread croutons recipe, from sweetening things up with cinnamon, to the spices mentioned above, to more nuanced additions, like dried basil or thyme.