How long can baked sourdough croutons be held before serving?

Baked sourdough croutons can be held for up to 8 hours before serving to ensure they maintain their intended texture and flavor characteristics. This time frame allows for the croutons to remain crispy and fresh without becoming stale or soggy. Beyond this duration, they may start to lose their desirable crunch or pick up unwanted moisture, especially if stored improperly. The 8-hour guideline is practical for kitchen operations, as it aligns with food safety standards while also catering to the best serving quality for dishes that incorporate croutons.