All About Croutons
Your complete guide to croutons - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Croutons Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for croutons in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
Unopened, Shelf-Stable (Commercial)6-12 months (or until 'best by' date)
Signs of Spoilage
Rancid oil smell, significant staleness, off-flavors, visible mold (very rare if sealed properly).
How to Check
Check the 'best by' or 'best if used by' date. Smell the package (if possible) or a small amount after opening for any chemical, paint-like, or distinctly stale odors. Visual inspection for any discoloration or mold development (highly unlikely in unopened, properly stored packages).
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. High humidity can degrade quality even if sealed.
Opened, Shelf-Stable (Commercial)2-4 weeks
Signs of Spoilage
Loss of crispness, chewiness, distinct staleness, rancid oil smell (like old crayons or paint), visible mold (fuzzy green, white, or black spots).
How to Check
Visual: Look for any fuzzy growth or discoloration. Smell: Sniff for a stale, musty, or rancid odor. Touch/Taste: Feel for a soft or chewy texture instead of crispness. A small taste will confirm staleness or rancidity (spit out if off-flavor is strong).
Storage Tips
To extend freshness, reseal the original bag tightly, use a clip, or transfer croutons to an airtight container. Keep away from moisture and humidity.
Freezer (Extended Storage)3-6 months
Signs of Spoilage
Freezer burn (dry, discolored spots), significant loss of flavor or texture after thawing, though mold is unlikely in the freezer.
How to Check
Visual: Check for excessive ice crystals or dry, shriveled areas indicating freezer burn. Smell/Taste (after thawing): While taste might degrade, significant off-odors or flavors after thawing indicate spoilage. They may just taste bland or have a 'freezer' taste.
Storage Tips
Store croutons in a freezer-safe, airtight bag or container to prevent freezer burn and absorption of freezer odors. Thaw at room temperature, or re-crisp quickly in a toaster oven or regular oven for best texture.
Homemade, Shelf-Stable1-2 weeks
Signs of Spoilage
Loss of crispness, chewiness, distinct staleness, rancid oil smell, visible mold (fuzzy green, white, or black spots).
How to Check
Visual: Inspect for any signs of mold. Smell: Sniff for a stale, musty, or rancid odor. Touch/Taste: Feel for a soft or chewy texture. Taste a small piece to check for freshness; discard if it tastes stale or off.
Storage Tips
Ensure homemade croutons are completely cooled and thoroughly dried/toasted before storing to prevent mold. Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid storing in the refrigerator as this can make them stale faster due to retrogradation of starches.