We’re always on the hunt for good leftover baguette recipes, because we adore baguette (so much so that we created our very own sustainably sourced baguette boards for the shop!). Sometimes, though, we find ourselves with extra, stale baguette. In the same way nothing goes to waste at our woodworking shops, no baguette bits go to waste here, either!
There are many creative ways to transform leftover baguettes into something delicious. These leftover baguette recipes will help you make the most of what you have and reduce food waste in the process.
In this post, we’ll show you how easy it is to turn stale bread into satisfying dishes. Let’s dive into four ways to use up that leftover baguette.
Sweet Bread Pudding
Bread pudding is a classic dessert that turns leftover bread into a sweet, custardy treat. It’s simple to make and perfect for using up stale baguettes.
Ingredients:
– 1 stale baguette, cut into cubes
– 4 cups milk
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– A pinch of salt
– Optional: raisins or chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the cubed baguette, making sure each piece is well-coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Fold in raisins or chocolate chips if desired.
- Next, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes until set and golden brown.
- Finally, serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of ice cream.
This dish is a perfect example of how simple leftover baguette recipes can turn stale bread into something that feels new.
Homemade Croutons
Crunchy croutons are one of the easiest and most versatile ways to use up stale baguettes. They add texture and flavor to salads, soups, and even pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 stale baguette, cut into cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried herbs (oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the cubed baguette with olive oil, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Next, spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, tossing halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Finally, let the croutons cool before using them in your favorite dishes.
Croutons are one of the most practical leftover baguette recipes because they store well and can be used for days.
French Toast Sticks: A Kid-Friendly Leftover Baguette Recipe
French toast is always a hit, and using a stale baguette gives the dish a delightful texture. This quick breakfast recipe is perfect for both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 stale baguette, cut into sticks
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– Butter for frying
– Optional: maple syrup for serving
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon.
- Dip each baguette stick into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Next, cook the sticks for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Finally, serve warm with maple syrup or powdered sugar.
This recipe takes basic ingredients and turns them into a fun breakfast option, making it one of the most kid-friendly leftover baguette recipes.
Panzanella Salad
Panzanella is an Italian bread salad that’s ideal for hot weather and fresh vegetables. Stale baguette chunks soak up the dressing and blend beautifully with tomatoes and cucumbers.
Ingredients:
– 1 stale baguette, torn into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups mixed salad greens
– 2 cups chopped ripe tomatoes
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the torn baguette pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Next, spread them on a baking sheet and toast for 10-15 minutes, or until crispy.
- In a large bowl, combine salad greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion.
- Add the toasted baguette pieces to the salad and drizzle with olive oil and vinegar. Toss everything together and serve.
Conclusion
Stale baguettes don’t need to be tossed aside. With these easy leftover baguette recipes, you can turn what might have been waste into a variety of delicious meals. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet dessert, a savory brunch, or a fresh salad, there’s a recipe here for everyone.
And if you love baguettes as much as we do, you might also love serving them on one of our handcrafted baguette boards.
