Quick Answer
To make 12 cups of bread cubes, you will need approximately 3 to 4 loaves of bread. The exact number of loaves needed depends on the size and type of bread used.
Calculating How Many Loaves You Need
The number of loaves needed to yield 12 cups of bread cubes depends on:
- The size/weight of each loaf
- The type of bread used
- How densely you pack the bread when cubing
Standard loaf sizes include:
- 1 pound loaf = 16 ounces
- 1.5 pound loaf = 24 ounces
- 2 pound loaf = 32 ounces
The type of bread makes a difference because bread densities can vary. For example:
| Bread Type | Typical Density |
|---|---|
| White bread | Tight, fine crumb |
| Wheat bread | Dense, heavy crumb |
| Rye bread | Dense, close crumb |
| Sourdough | Hole-y, open crumb |
| Brioche | Light, tender crumb |
As you can see, the same weight loaf can yield different volumes of bread cubes depending on density.
The final factor is how tightly you pack the cubes when measuring. Some people gently fill the cup, while others firmly press and pack the cubes.
Taking all these factors into account, here are some estimates:
Using 1 Pound Loaves
– White bread = 3 to 4 loaves
– Wheat bread = 3 to 4 loaves
– Rye bread = 3 loaves
– Sourdough = 4 loaves
– Brioche = 4 to 5 loaves
Using 1.5 Pound Loaves
– White bread = 2 to 3 loaves
– Wheat bread = 2 to 3 loaves
– Rye bread = 2 loaves
– Sourdough = 3 loaves
– Brioche = 3 to 4 loaves
Using 2 Pound Loaves
– White bread = 2 loaves
– Wheat bread = 2 loaves
– Rye bread = 2 loaves
– Sourdough = 2 to 3 loaves
– Brioche = 3 loaves
As you can see, the estimates range from 2 to 5 loaves depending on size and bread type.
In general, for average sandwich breads like white or wheat, plan on 3 to 4 loaves for 12 cups of cubes. Sourdough and brioche are lighter and airiest, so you may need up to 5 loaves. Smaller 1 pound loaves will be on the higher end around 4 to 5.
To be totally precise, you’ll need to weigh your loaves and measure the cubes. But these estimates give a good starting point. When in doubt, get an extra loaf to be safe. You can always freeze the extra cubed bread for future recipes.
Cubing the Bread
Once you’ve purchased the estimated number of loaves needed, you’ll need to cube the bread. Here are some tips:
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread. The cubes will hold their shape better.
- Remove crusts first for uniform cubes.
- Cut loaf into 1/2 to 1 inch slices.
- Stack 2-3 slices and cut into cubes.
- Aim for 1/2 to 3/4 inch cubes.
- Work in batches and place cubes in a large bowl.
- Gently toss cubes to prevent sticking.
Be sure your knife is sharp for clean cuts through the bread. A serrated bread knife works very well.
If you end up with more cubes than needed, simply freeze the extras in an airtight container or bag. Frozen bread cubes will keep for 4-6 months.
Typical Uses for Bread Cubes
Once you have your 12 cups of bread cubes, here are some of the most common ways to use them:
Stuffing and Dressing
Bread cubes are a key ingredient in stuffing and dressing recipes for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Allow 1/2 to 1 cup of cubes per serving of stuffing.
Bread Puddings
Both sweet and savory bread puddings utilize bread cubes soaked in a custard base. They are a delicious way to use up stale bread.
Croutons
Toasted or baked bread cubes make crunchy, flavorful croutons for salads and soups. Allow 1 to 2 cups of croutons per 6-8 servings.
Breading for Baked Items
From breaded chicken cutlets to crab cakes, bread crumbs create a crispy coating. Cubes can be pulsed into fresh crumbs.
Fillings and Binders
In cooked fillings, cubes help bind and stretch ground meat. They also absorb extra liquid.
Storing Bread Cubes
- Room Temperature: Place loosely covered bowl of cubes in the fridge. Use within 2-3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cubes spread out on a baking sheet then transfer to an airtight container or bag. Will keep 4-6 months.
Avoid freezing in one big clump, as cubes will stick together and be hard to separate when frozen.
Let frozen cubes thaw overnight in the fridge before using. Do not thaw at room temp or cubes will become soggy.
Conclusion
When a recipe calls for cups of bread cubes, plan on purchasing 3 to 4 loaves of sandwich bread to yield 12 cups. More airy breads like sourdough or brioche may require up to 5 average sized loaves. Smaller 1 pound loaves will be on the higher end.
Cube your bread ahead of time, allowing for some extra. Any leftover cubes can be frozen for future baking projects. Store cubes properly to maintain freshness and texture.
With the right amount of cubed bread on hand, you’ll be ready to make everything from Thanksgiving stuffing to easy homemade croutons.