Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You want it hot enough for effective toasting. A well-heated oven is key to achieving that perfect crunch!

As you wait for the oven to heat, take your loaf of bread and cut it into 3/4-inch cubes. If you’re using a fresh loaf, don’t fret! Let it sit out for a bit to dry out. The drier, the better for croutons.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, Italian herb blend, smoked paprika, roasted garlic powder, and black pepper. This is where the magic happens—the oil will carry all those delightful flavors into your croutons.

Add the cubed bread to the mixing bowl with the oil and seasoning blend. Use your hands or a spatula to toss everything together, ensuring every piece of bread is well-coated in the mixture. No half-hearted seasoning here!

Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or simply greasing it lightly with more olive oil. Spread the seasoned bread cubes evenly on the baking sheet in a single layer. This allows for even cooking and crisping.

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the croutons are golden-brown and crisp. Don’t forget to give them a stir halfway through to ensure they toast evenly.

Once baked, take the croutons out of the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet. They will crisp up even more as they cool. Once at room temperature, enjoy them immediately or store them in an airtight container.