Nine Yummy Things to do with Your Leftover Bread

What do you do with leftover bread? Maybe it is a bit stale, but don’t throw it out! Here are ten amazing things you can do with leftover bread.

1. French Toast – This is a classic breakfast dish that is quick and easy to make. Slice your leftover bread into thick slices, then dip them in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, and cinnamon. Fry them in a pan with a little bit of butter until golden brown. Serve with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream. Experiment with bread types. Challah, sourdough, baguettes, multigrain – almost anything works!

2. Bread Pudding – Bread pudding is a delicious and comforting dessert that can be made with any type of bread. Tear your leftover bread into small pieces and place them in a baking dish. Mix together eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract, then pour the mixture over the bread. Bake in the oven until golden brown and serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

3. Croutons – Croutons are a great addition to soups, salads, and casseroles. Cut your leftover bread into small cubes and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake in the oven until crispy and golden brown. Or, try tearing the bread into small chunks for a terrific texture.

4. Bread crumbs – Bread crumbs are a great way to add texture and flavor to dishes. Toast your leftover bread in the oven until it is dry and crisp, then pulse it in a food processor until it is finely ground. Use the breadcrumbs to coat chicken, fish, or vegetables before cooking.

5. Bread and Butter Pudding – Similar to bread pudding, bread and butter pudding is a comforting dessert that is easy to make. Spread butter over your leftover bread slices, then place them in a baking dish. Mix together eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract, then pour the mixture over the bread. Bake in the oven until golden brown and serve with whipped cream or custard.

6. Tuscan Bread Soup (Pappa al Pomodoro) – Bread soup is a traditional Italian dish that is made with stale bread, vegetables, and broth. Saute onions, garlic, and your tomatoes in a pot, then add broth and torn pieces of stale bread. Simmer until the bread is soft and the vegetables are tender. Serve with grated cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.

7. Bruschetta – Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that is made with grilled bread, tomatoes, and olive oil. Slice your leftover bread into thick slices and grill or toast until crispy. Top with chopped tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
8. Panzanella – Panzanella is a Tuscan salad that is made with stale bread, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Tear your leftover bread into bite-sized pieces and place in a bowl. Add chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and fresh herbs. Toss with a vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard. The bread soaks up the delicious juices.

9. Crostini – Crostini is a versatile appetizer that can be topped with a variety of toppings. Slice your leftover bread into thin slices and toast until crispy. Top with your choice of toppings, such as hummus, cheese, roasted vegetables, or an Italian staple – chicken liver puree.

There are many creative and delicious ways to use up your stale bread. So, next time you have leftover bread, don’t toss it out!