Cheesecroutons

Cheesecroutons are small, crisp pieces of bread that are coated with cheese or melted cheese during preparation to add additional flavor and richness. They are a cheese-forward variation of traditional croutons and are commonly used as a topping for soups, salads, and casseroles, or enjoyed as a snack.

Preparation typically starts with cube-cut bread, often from day-old loaves. The cubes are tossed with a fat such as olive oil or melted butter, grated or shredded cheese (parmesan, cheddar, Gruyère, or similar), and seasonings like garlic, salt, and herbs. The coated cubes are spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and baked until the bread is dry and the cheese forms a savory, crisp crust. Some recipes finish under a broiler to enhance browning and cheese flavor. Variations may include different cheese blends, herbs, or the use of butter substitutes.

Cheesecroutons are widely used to garnish warm soups such as tomato or broccoli cheddar, as well as salads like Caesar. They can also be prepared in larger batches for snacks or as a crunchy topping for casseroles. Storage guidelines advise cooling completely and keeping in an airtight container; they keep for several days at room temperature and longer if refrigerated or frozen. Nutrition varies with bread type, cheese choice, and added fats, typically yielding higher fat and sodium content than plain croutons.