Congratulations on making your own bread! One of the many benefits of making your own is that there are no preservatives. However, figuring out how to store fresh bread can be a challenge due to its shorter shelf life. Fortunately, there are several options to help keep your bread fresh and tasty for longer than a day or two.
Download our Sourdough Guide and Recipe book, and we’ll teach you everything you need to make sourdough bread, from the basics to more advanced techniques. This guide includes helpful tips and tricks to ensure your bread's longevity.
HOW TO STORE BREAD: RIGID STORAGE CONTAINERS
1. STORING FRESH BREAD IN A BREAD BOX
Bread Box is simply a closed container that allows a little air circulation but keeps insects and dust out. In the ’50s and ’60s, almost every kitchen had a bread box. They're still practical for modern kitchens: either find one at a consignment shop or purchase a new one to match your décor. Ensure it’s large enough for your loaves!2. CERAMIC CONTAINER: AN OPTION TO STORE HOMEMADE BREAD
A Ceramic Container, such as the German Brottopf, is optimal because of its ability to breathe. A well-sized container can, however, take up precious counter space and might be more expensive.HOW TO KEEP BREAD FRESH: BAGS OR WRAPPERS
3. PLASTIC: NOT THE BEST WAY TO STORE HOMEMADE BREAD
Plastic, either as a wrap or a bag, does not allow for the passage of air and maintains the bread at a soft texture, so the loaf inside does not dry out. Plastic may work for softer breads but does not work well for sourdough or other crusty breads. It can make the bread soggy from the trace amounts of moisture that collect inside the bag. Plastic is not the ideal choice for homemade bread storage.
4. PAPER: AN OPTION ON HOW TO STORE FRESH BREAD
Paper is a cost-effective, simple choice. Keeping bread fresh in a paper bag can be improved by adding an extra step. Instead of placing the bread directly into the paper bag, try wrapping it first in a clean, dry kitchen towel. The towel will provide an extra layer of protection against moisture and prevent the bread from drying out too quickly.5. HOW TO STORE BREAD IN A CLOTH BAG
A Cloth Bag, such as ourOrganic Cotton Bread Keeper, is a favorite choice for nice aesthetics and regular use. It doesn’t take up much room, is cost-effective, and looks pretty on your counter. If you like different sizes, it’s fairly easy to make one of your own.6. BEST WAY TO STORE HOMEMADE BREAD FOR LONG-TERM – FREEZE IT!
If you find that you will not eat the loaf in a day or two, the freezer works well for longer-term storage. We suggest this procedure: cool the bread completely, then slice it. Wrap the loaf in plastic or zipper bags and place in the freezer. Take out slices as needed and bring to room temperature or toast.
It's important to note that when freezing bread, it's best to slice it first. This allows you to only defrost the amount you need, reducing the risk of your bread going stale from multiple freeze-thaw cycles.
WHAT ABOUT STALE BREAD
If in fact your bread does go stale, first follow our recommendations forreviving dried-out sourdough bread. If it's too late to revive it, there may still be some life left. Try one of our manyrecipes or uses for stale sourdough bread.
You can always repurpose your stale bread into breadcrumbs. Simply pulse the stale bread in a food processor until you have crumbs. These can be used immediately or stored in the freezer for future use. It's an easy way to reduce waste and add flavor and texture to a variety of dishes.
LEARN HOW TO STORE HOMEMADE BREAD AND KEEP IT FRESH WITH OUR FREE SOURDOUGH GUIDE AND RECIPE BOOK. DOWNLOAD IT NOW TO GET STARTED!
