Bagel croutons are irresistibly crunchy and flavorful. Create larger croutons for snacking and scooping up dips and cheeses, or make smaller, bite-size croutons for salads and soups!
2plain vegan bagels (7 oz) - see Notes; or other bread such as sourdough, French, rye, or good quality white bread
2tablespoonsolive oil
½teaspoondried thyme - not powdered
½teaspoongarlic powder
rounded ¼teaspoonsea salt
black pepper, optional
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F, and locate a standard baking sheet.
For large, hand-held, snacking croutons, cut bagels into chunks approximately 1 ¼-inches square. For bite-size croutons, cut into ¾- to 1-inch pieces.
Spread the bread out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Evenly drizzle the olive oil over the bread. Then evenly sprinkle with dried thyme, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Toss gently until well-combined.
Cook time depends on the type of bread, the amount of moisture in the bread, and the thickness of the pieces. Bake until golden, flipping the croutons once around the 6-minute mark. Keep a close eye on them after 8 to 9 minutes so they don't burn. Mine usually take 12 minutes for large bagel croutons, and 10 minutes for smaller ones.
Remove from oven and let the croutons cool on the baking sheet. Use immediately, or store in an air-tight container for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
Selecting Bagels - I used Dave's Killer Bread plain bagels. Some bagels aren't vegan, so be sure to check the ingredients. You can also use savory flavored bagels and reduce or omit the garlic powder and other seasonings.Yield - if using as a garnish for salad or soup, allow ½ bagel per person. If serving as a dipper/snack, prepare 1 bagel per person.