Do This For The Best Stuffing

Homemade bread cubes make a big difference in the texture and flavor of stuffing. The better the bread, the better your Thanksgiving stuffing.

It’s important to use dried bread so it can absorb all the flavorful liquid ingredients in your stuffing. Making bread cubes for stuffing is easy. Do it a day or two before you want to make stuffing, or dry the bread cubes in the oven if using a fresh loaf right away.

Here’s how to cut, dry and store bread cubes for stuffing:

1. Start with a 1 pound country style loaf, like Grand Central Bakery Como. It’s fine to use a few different kinds of bread if you like, or even brioche buns, but start with good-quality bread.

2. Using a serrated knife, cut the bread into slices. Remove crusts if desired. Stack several slices and cut into even size cubes, about 3/4 inch.

3. Store bread cubes at room temperature in a paper bag or in a bowl under a tea towel for a few days. For longer storage, place in zip-top bags and freeze.

4. For deeper flavor or to dry out bread quickly, use your oven. Spread evenly onto baking sheets in a single layer, making sure there’s space between the cubes. Toast cubes in a 350 degree oven until completely dry, about 8-10 minutes. Stir a few times while baking for even drying.

5. Cool bread cubes completely on the baking sheet. Use in your favorite stuffing recipe or store as recommended above.

Grand Central’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe