CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN GARLIC HERB CROUTONS

California Pizza Kitchen Garlic Herb Croutons

Source: California Pizza Kitchen-Pasta, Salads, Soups and Sides

2 2/3 sticks unsalted butter
1 tablespoon dried garlic granules
2 teaspoons dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 loaf country-style white bread,
    cut into 3/4- to 1-inch cubes

Preheat the oven to 225 degrees F.

In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Remove from the heat ad stir in the garlic granules, basil, salt and cayenne.

Put the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Add the seasoned butter and quickly toss to coat the cubes evenly. Spread the buttered cubes on a baking sheet and bake until they are golden brown on the outside and crisp throughout, about 1 hour. (To test for doneness, cut or carefully bite into one of the larger croutons; its center should be completely dry and crisp.)

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Yield: 1 quart