Making vegan croutons is a great way to use up stale bread and they are so easy to make with only 2 ingredients plus salt and pepper. Use them to add extra texture and flavour to vegan soups and salads or eat them by the handful as a snack!
PREP TIME: 5 minutesminutes
COOK TIME: 12 minutesminutes
Servings: 4cups
Ingredients
12 oz (340grams)bread, equal to about ½ a large loaf. Rustic, slightly stale bread is best
4tablespoonsolive oil, or 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for oil-free
½teaspoonfine sea salt
½teaspoonfreshly ground black pepper, plus a little more if you like a peppery flavor
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut or tear the bread into chunky bite-sized pieces. I like each cube to be about 1-inch square but you can cut them smaller or a little larger if you prefer.
Put the cubes of bread in a large bowl then drizzle over the oil (or aquafaba) and sprinkle over the salt and pepper. Add any extra optional seasoning (there are lots of ideas in my post above), then using your hands, toss the cubes of bread so they are all coated in oil and seasonings.
Spread the cubes out into a single layer on a large unlined baking sheet, making sure there is a little room around each cube. Don't crowd them. Use 2 baking sheets if they won't all fit comfortably on one.
Bake for about 15 minutes, turning once half way. Croutons made with aquafaba will take a few minutes longer than those made with oil. Keep an eye on them towards the end in case they start getting too dark. Once golden and completely dried out and crispy, remove from the oven and leave on the tray to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They should keep well for up to one month.
NOTES
To make croutons in an air fryer
Prepare as instructed then air fry them on 390°F, making sure to toss frequently, for about 7 to 8 minutes or until super golden and crispy. You will need to do them in a few batches depending on how big your air fryer basket is. Don't crowd them or they won't get nice and crispy easily. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate then cook subsequent batches.