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Bread is a staple in almost every kitchen, but it does not stay fresh for long. That’s why you should know How to Store Bread properly so it stays healthy, tasty, and fresh as long as possible.
Whether you prefer white bread, naan bread, store-bought or homemade bread, or any other type, there are several ways to store them. From storing them in a bread box to freezing the bread loaves, you will find a way that suits you best.
Keep Your Bread Fresh and Tasty
How To Store Bread
There are many options for storing those beautiful bakery loaves, but some of them are better than others depending on the temperature and humidity in your kitchen. You may need a little trial and error to find the best storage solution to preserve your bread.
It’s important to note that not all bread gets stale at the same pace. Bread with added fat like brioche takes longer to go stale, unlike baguette bread which goes stale rapidly because it doesn’t have fat.
Bread Box
The most common way to store bread is to place them in a breadbox. It keeps your bread at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. This will make it hard for mold to grow.
A breadbox allows air to circulate, so it is a good choice to store bread that will consume in the next couple of days. Keep it clean and dry and remove any crumbs or debris from older bread.
Bread boxes are made of wood or metal and cine in different sizes and styles to suit your needs and kitchen decor. If you wish to keep bread for longer, consider other storage options.
A bread bin is similar to a bread box, so it is a good way to store bread. It might be even better because it may have a tighter seal.
Plastic Bag
Another way to store bread is by keeping them in a plastic bag. It is convenient and inexpensive. It keeps moisture inside so the bread does not dry, but if left for long, mold will eventually grow.
If you want to store French bread or any bread with crust, avoid storing it in a plastic bag for it may become soft and soggy. Consider other storing options.
Freezer
Storing bread in the freezer elongates its shelf life to the maximum. Place the bread loaves in a plastic bag and wrap the sliced bread in plastic wrap and then toss them in the fridge.
Bread can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Attention! Do not store sourdough in the freezer because it will lose its texture and flavor. If you want to ensure your bread can be frozen, ask the baker or check the label on the bag.
Refrigerator
You can store bread in the refrigerator for a longer period of time, but it may cause it to dry fast. Make sure you place bread in a plastic bag to keep some moisture inside.
Well, artisanal bread and sourdough bread should not be stored in the refrigerator or they may use their texture and flavor.
If your refrigerator has a bread drawer, store them there because it is designed to keep bread at the right temperature and humidity level.
How Easy!
Cloth Bread Bag
One alternative to a plastic bag is a cloth bread bag. It is made of natural material like cotton or linen and comes in different sizes and styles. The cloth bread bag is an eco-friendly bag that is perfect for storing loaves, rolls, bagels, and more.
They stay fresh for longer by allowing them to breathe and preventing moisture buildup. It is designed to allow the air to circulate so the bread will not get too dry or too moist.
Foil
For bread with a crust, you can wrap it in foil to keep it fresh. Wrap it tightly around the bread and seal the edges to prevent it from drying out.
What to Do With Stale Bread
If you do not want to store bread and it is past its prime. You can make some crispy croutons, bread pizza, or Italian bread crumbs. Check Repurposing Stale Bread for more details.
You can compost stale bread. In fact, it breaks down naturally to create nutrient-rich soil.
If you live close to a farm or you have a garden next to you, feed stale bread to animals. It is a treat for pets or backyard chickens.
You can also cut stale bread into small pieces and scatter them in your backyard to call for some birds.
If you can not go with any of the above suggestions, dispose the bread of in the trash. Place them in a sealed plastic bag to prevent odors and pests.
Tips and Tricks
Store-bought bread or buns usually have added preservatives, that’s why it stays fresh for longer.
Do not store fresh bread in the refrigerator. It will dry quickly and lose its flavor.
Avoid storing bread next to a stove or an oven or any source of heat. Keep them in a cool place.
Avoid storing bread in the kitchen pantry unless the temperature and humidity inside are suitable. If you choose this way, check the bread in the pantry regularly for signs of spoilage.
If you choose to store bread in a plastic bag, use a bread clip to seal it tightly. You can also remove the air from the bag by vacuum sealing which prevents mold growth and staling.
A Plastic Bad and Bread Clip Are All You Need
Frequently Asked Questions
It is not recommended because they may absorb each other’s flavor. If you want to do so for any reason, wrap them separately in plastic wrap before storing them to prevent them from touching.
A good idea to allow the frozen bread to thaw at room temperature for a few hours. You can take it out and let it sit in the fridge overnight.
Once you see mold on your bread, don’t hesitate to discard it. Also, if your bread has a stale or musty smell, a dry or hard texture, or a sour taste, this means that it has gone bad.
Sourdough bread is made with fermented dough with a tangy flavor and chewy texture. The best way to store it is in a paper bag at room temperature. It may stay up to one week while it continues to ferment and develop its flavor.
Bread Recipes You Do Not Want to Miss
- Double Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe
- Chocolate Cloud Bread-Viral TikTok Bread (Gluten Free- High Protein- Low Calorie)
- Gluten Free Yeast Free Naan Bread
- Gluten-Free Flat Bread-10 Minute Dough (No Yeast)
- Gluten-Free Zaatar Flat Bread (No Yeast)
- Fruit & Ricotta Flatbread
- Effortless Banana Bread Pudding
- Simple Skillet Flat Bread
- Easy Olive Bread
- Date Stuffed Brioche Bread
