Easy, homemade Pretzel Bun Croutons Recipe
Are you ready to transform your meals with a delightful crunch? These Crispy, homemade Pretzel Bun Croutons are the perfect addition to soups, salads, and casseroles. They offer a savory burst of flavor and a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Made from day-old pretzel rolls, drizzled with olive oil, lightly seasoned, and baked to golden brown, they will bring a unique twist to your favorite dishes. Whether you’re looking for a snack or a topping, these Pretzel Bun Croutons are easy to make and will quickly become a pantry staple!
Nobody likes to waste food, am I right?
Making croutons at home is a great way to use stale bread. Soft pretzel buns are the star of this recipe, but you can also use any leftover bread you have. This gives you the flexibility to experiment with different kinds of bread, including hamburger buns and hot dog buns.
Why you will love Pretzel Bun Croutons
Unique flavor – pretzel buns already have that deliciously salty, slightly sweet taste with a dense, chewy texture. Turning them into homemade croutons gives that flavor a crispy, toasty upgrade that’s way more exciting than your typical crouton.
Perfect crunch – who doesn’t love a good crunch? These croutons offer a crispy, savory bite that stays crunchy even when tossed into soups or salads, thanks to the dense pretzel dough.
Versatile – these aren’t just for salads! They’re perfect for topping casseroles (thinking of your Pretzel Breadcrumb Casserole!), creamy soups, or just as a snack straight from the jar. A flavor bomb in every bite.
Ingredients, Variations and Substitutions
Pretzel Buns – Soft, chewy buns with a salty crust, perfect for making flavorful croutons or breadcrumbs. Preferably use day-old buns for better texture; fresh buns may become soggy during baking. If you don’t have pretzel buns, you can use any dense bread like bagels, sourdough, or whole wheat rolls, though the flavor will differ.
Olive Oil – adds moisture and richness while helping the croutons achieve a crispy texture. Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor; the oil also enhances seasoning adherence.Melted butter can replace olive oil for a richer taste. Other oils like avocado or canola oil can work too but may alter the flavor slightly.
Dried Thyme – A fragrant herb that adds an earthy flavor to the croutons and enhances their complexity. Dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh, so use them accordingly. If you’re not a fan of thyme, you can skip it. Other dried herbs like oregano, rosemary, or Italian seasoning can be used for different flavor profiles.
Salt – enhances the overall flavor and balances the richness of the oil and bread. Adjust the amount based on the saltiness of the pretzel buns; you may not need as much if they are already salty. Sea salt or kosher salt can replace regular salt. If you want to reduce sodium, use a salt-free seasoning blend. If you want to add flavor to your slat, add garlic salt instead.
Black Pepper – adds a mild heat and depth of flavor to the croutons, balancing the richness. Freshly cracked black pepper offers a more robust flavor compared to pre-ground. White pepper can be used for a milder flavor, or you can leave it out if you prefer a non-spicy version.
Equipment you will need
- Cutting board
- Serrated knife
- Large bowl
- Sheet pan
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Spatula or tongs
Top Tips
Use day-old pretzel buns – Stale buns are firmer and result in crunchier croutons. If your buns are too fresh, lightly toast them in the oven before cutting.
Uniform size matters – cut the pretzel buns into bite-sized pieces as evenly as possible to ensure they bake at the same rate. Smaller cubes = crunchier croutons, larger cubes = more chewy centers.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – give the croutons space to breathe! Overcrowding will steam them, and they won’t get that desired crispy texture.
Toss halfway through – stir the croutons halfway during baking to ensure they crisp up evenly on all sides.
Check for saltiness – pretzel buns are naturally salty, adjust the amount of salt you add to the seasoning to avoid an overly salty crouton.
Use butter for richness – Olive oil is great, but if you want extra flavor, use melted butter or a mix of both. It adds a deeper, buttery taste.
Cool completely before storing – let the croutons cool entirely before packing them away. This keeps them crisp and prevents sogginess.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get a baking sheet ready by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cut the soft pretzel buns into 1-inch cubes. If you prefer smaller, crunchier bits, you can go smaller but keep them uniform for even cooking.
- In a large bowl, toss the pretzel bun cubes with olive oil (or melted butter), thyme, salt, pepper, and any optional spices you want to use (onion powder, garlic salt or even brown sugar). Make sure the cubes are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- Spread the croutons in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even crisping. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
- Once golden and crispy, remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container for up to a week (if they last that long!).
Tips:
- For extra crunch, let the pretzel buns sit out for a day before making the croutons, or lightly toast them in the oven before cubing.
- These croutons pair especially well with creamy soups, such as Beer cheese soup, French onion soup, or even tomato soup.
Best ways to enjoy Pretzel Bun Croutons
Toppings for Soups – use them to top creamy soups like butternut squash or cheddar cheese soup.
Salad Enhancer – toss them into your favorite salad for added texture and flavor.
Casserole crunch – sprinkle them on top of casseroles before baking for a golden, crispy topping. They’ll soak up some of the sauce, making them even more flavorful.
Snack time – enjoy them as a crunchy snack! They’re great option for munching on while watching a movie or as a party appetizer. Pair them with dips like hummus, guacamole, or even cheese spreads.
Garnish for pasta dishes – use them to add a crunchy topping to pasta dishes, especially creamy ones like mac and cheese or baked ziti.
Charcuterie boards – include them alongside meats, cheese dips, and spreads on a charcuterie board.
Breakfast Bowl – add them to breakfast bowls with scrambled eggs, sautéed vegetables, and cheese.
Bonus Tip:
- Flavor Infusion: Try tossing the croutons in different seasonings or spices before using them to match the dish you’re serving. For instance, a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili powder can add a fun kick!
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Storage instructions, reheating
- Allow the croutons to cool completely on the baking sheet after baking. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soggy.
- Transfer the cooled croutons to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Ensure all the air is removed from the bag if using one, as this will help maintain their crispiness.
- Store the croutons at room temperature for up to 1 week. Avoid refrigerating them, as the moisture in the fridge can make them lose their crunch.
- If you want to store them for longer, consider freezing them. Place the croutons in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the croutons out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 5–7 minutes or until they are warmed through and crispy again. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Toaster Oven:
- If you have a toaster oven, this is a great option too! Just set it to a low temperature and toast them for a few minutes, checking frequently.
Skillet Method:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the croutons and toast for about 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re warmed and crispy again.
Easy, homemade Pretzel Bun Croutons Recipe
Equipment
- cutting board
- serrated knife
- large and small bowl
- sheet pan
- parchment paper or foil
- spatula or tongs
Ingredients
- 2 pretzel buns
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get a baking sheet ready by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cut the soft pretzel buns into 1-inch cubes. If you prefer smaller, crunchier bits, you can go smaller but keep them uniform for even cooking.
- In a large bowl, toss the pretzel bun cubes with olive oil (or melted butter), thyme, salt, pepper, and any optional spices you want to use (onion powder, garlic salt or even brown sugar). Make sure the cubes are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- Spread the croutons in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even crisping. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
- Once golden and crispy, remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container for up to a week
Notes
Nutrition
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Conclusion
Including Pretzel Bun Croutons in your dishes is a great way to add a crunchy texture and rich, hard-to-resist flavor.
Whether you’re topping soups and salads or snacking straight from the jar, these croutons are versatile and easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can transform day-old pretzel buns into a delicious treat everyone loves.
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy these crispy bites that bring a whole new dimension to your meals!
FAQ
Can I use fresh pretzel buns for croutons?
While you can use fresh pretzel buns, day-old buns work best as they’re firmer and create a crunchier texture. If using fresh, consider lightly toasting them first.
Can I make these croutons gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the pretzel buns with gluten-free bread or gluten-free pretzel buns to make a delicious gluten-free version.
What seasonings can I use besides thyme?
Feel free to experiment with various seasonings like oregano, rosemary, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick. You can also add Parmesan cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh garlic to your mixture.
How do I reheat croutons to keep them crispy?
To reheat, spread croutons on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, or use a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes.
Can I use any bread for croutons?
Absolutely! While pretzel buns give a unique flavor, you can use any sturdy bread, like sourdough, whole grain, or even bagels, for croutons.
