Perfectly crisp and golden bread cubes are the secret to a standout stuffing, and they’re easier to make than you think. In just 25 minutes, you can transform simple bread into bite-sized pieces with a satisfying crunch and a warm, toasty aroma. These cubes soak up flavors beautifully, adding a rich, savory depth to your dishes. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight meal, this versatile base elevates every bite with its irresistible texture and wholesome simplicity.
With a light, airy interior and a slightly crunchy exterior, these bread cubes bring the perfect balance of softness and structure to your stuffing. They’re low in fat yet packed with flavor, making them a guilt-free addition to your favorite recipes. Customize the seasoning to match your taste, and enjoy the comforting scent of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. Quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable, this recipe ensures your stuffing will always be the star of the table.
What You’ll Need to Make Bread Cubes for Stuffing
- ▢ 1 loaf of sliced bread (slightly stale bread works best for easier cutting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Cut the bread into ½” cubes. This is easiest if the bread is slightly stale. Cut each slice into strips and then use kitchen shears to cut into neat ½” cubes.
- Scatter the bread cubes evenly over an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake the bread cubes on the center rack of the oven for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, remove from the oven and use a spatula to stir the bread cubes.
- Return the bread cubes to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes. Check the bread cubes after 5 minutes; if they’re not crisp or are still slightly soft, return to the oven in 5-minute intervals until crisp.
- Allow the bread cubes to cool before using them as indicated in your recipe.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions for Bread Cubes
These bread cubes are the foundation for a delicious stuffing, but they’re also versatile! Try them as croutons for soups or salads, or use them in a savory bread pudding. For a sweet twist, toss them with cinnamon sugar and serve with yogurt or ice cream for a quick dessert.
Keep It Fresh: Storage and Reheating Tips
Store your bread cubes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you need them to last longer, freeze them in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. To refresh, simply pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
Experiment with different types of bread, like sourdough, whole wheat, or rye, for unique flavors. For added depth, toss the cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, or dried herbs before baking. Sweet variations? Try cinnamon or vanilla sugar for a dessert-friendly option.
Quick Tips: Time-Saving Hacks
If you’re short on time, use pre-sliced bread or a bread knife to speed up the cubing process. Alternatively, buy pre-made croutons and toast them lightly for a similar result. For even baking, spread the cubes in a single layer and stir halfway through.
Essential Tools: Equipment Guidance
A sharp bread knife or kitchen shears makes cutting the bread into cubes a breeze. Use a large, ungreased baking sheet to ensure even crisping. A spatula is handy for stirring the cubes during baking to prevent uneven browning.
How to Make Bread Cubes for Stuffing
Ingredients
- 1 loaf sliced bread
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300F (150C).
- Cut bread into ½” cubes. I find this is easiest if the bead is slightly stale. I cut each slice into strips and then use kitchen shears to cut into neat ½” cubes.
- Scatter evenly over an ungreased baking sheet.
- Transfer to center rack of 300F (150C) oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven, use a spatula to stir the bread cubes, then return to the oven and bake another 5 minutes. Check the bread cubes after 5 minutes, if they’re not crisp/are still slightly soft, return to the oven in 5 minute intervals until crisp.
- Allow to cool before using as indicated in your recipe.