Oh, do I adore bread! The aroma of freshly baked sourdough bread wafting through my kitchen is pure bliss. As a health-conscious woman who revels in cooking from scratch, bread-making has become a passion of mine.
Store-bought loaves are a rarity in my home, as I’m always mindful of the preservatives and additives lurking within. But oh, the challenge of storing homemade bread!Â
Over the years, I’ve experimented with various methods—an old breadbox that I transformed, linen bags, even the refrigerator, desperately seeking the perfect solution to keep my precious freshly-baked bread delectable.Â
Alas, my search has finally come to an end. I have stumbled upon a divine bread storage solution. Super stylish and functional, it has captured my heart completely.
Its design is both charming and practical, providing the ideal sanctuary right there on my counter. And you can see what’s inside!
So now, my fellow bread enthusiasts, I simply must share this marvel with the world, for it has revolutionized my bread-making experience and elevated my joy in the process.
What is Best Way to Store Fresh Bread?
Three words for this: COOL – DRY – VENTILATION.
Regardless of homemade or not, without these three conditions, bread will be stale bread sooner than later.
Of course there are a few options but whether they serve your particular circumstances or not, that’s up to you to decide.
Bread Box
A traditional bread box with a lid can provide a suitable environment for storing bread. It helps to maintain a moderate level of humidity, which prevents the bread from drying out too quickly. Look for a bread box made of breathable materials like wood or bamboo.
I have had a few of these bamboo ones over the years and they are really cool. However can’t beat my new beauty.
Linen Bag or Tea Towel
Wrap your loaf of bread in a clean, breathable linen bag or cotton tea towel. This method allows for air circulation while protecting the bread from excessive moisture loss.
Bread Bin
A bread bin is a dedicated container designed specifically for storing bread. It often has ventilation holes or a lid that can be adjusted to control airflow.
Paper Bag
If you prefer a rustic approach, you can store bread in a paper bag. Place the loaf inside the bag and loosely fold the top to allow some air circulation. This method helps to maintain a slightly drier environment compared to using a plastic bag.
Don’t Do This To Your Bread!
A couple of warnings.
Plastic Bags
It is quite funny that I remember when I was a kid our whole loaf was hanging in the kitchen in a plastic bag! Don’t do this!
Avoid using plastic wrap or bags, as they can create a humid environment and lead to mold growth.
Aluminum
Wrapping a sandwich in aluminum foil is a convenient way to store and transport it for consumption on the same day. But you must ensure no openings are left and store it in a cool place, like a refrigerator or a cooler bag, to maintain its freshness.
However, keep in mind that aluminum foil is not suitable for long-term storage, so it’s best to consume the sandwich bread within a few hours or refrigerate it for up to 1-2 days for optimal food safety.
Be cautious with acidic or salty ingredients that may react with the foil, and if preferred, parchment paper can be used as an alternative wrapping material. Proper food handling and storage practices are essential to ensure both the safety and quality of your sandwich.
Can Bread Be Stored at Room Temperature?
Yes, bread can (and should) be stored at room temperature for a short period, usually up to 2-3 days, depending on the humidity and the type of bread.
However, it’s important to note that homemade bread, which lacks preservatives, tends to stale faster than commercially produced bread.
To maximize the shelf life of bread at room temperature, it’s essential to store it properly.
Here are a few tips:
Cool and Dry Location: Keep the bread in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight, moisture, and appliances like a dishwasher or oven. Avoid storing it near fruits or vegetables that release ethylene gas, as it can accelerate the bread’s staling process.
Proper Storage Containers: Use a bread box, linen bread bags, or airtight container specifically designed for bread storage.
Sliced Bread: If you plan to consume the bread over several days, consider slicing it and storing it in an airtight container or a resealable bag. This allows you to retrieve individual slices as needed while keeping the rest of the loaf fresh.
Does Refrigerating Homemade Bread Make it Last Longer?
I usually don’t put my bread in the fridge. Refrigerating bread can cause it to dry out quickly and lose its freshness. The cold temperature can also accelerate the staling process.
However, freezing bread is a viable option if you want to store it for a more extended period. In this case plastic freezer bags are the best option. Just make sure you push out as much air as possible.
To be honest, frozen sliced bread is absolutely perfect for toasts and you can put it directly in the toaster from the freezer. No need to thaw.
And with slightly stale bread, my favorite thing to do are french toast. They are beyond delicious!
If it has gone completely dry, then your best bet is to turn it into breadcrumbs and use it to coat breaded chicken or fish.
Where Do you Store Crusty Bread?
I love crusty artisan bread so much! But, unfortunately, it’s important to note that crusty bread is best consumed within a day or two of baking when it is at its freshest and crispiest.
As time goes by, the crust will naturally soften due to moisture migration from the bread’s interior. Storing crusty bread for longer periods will result in a loss of its desirable texture and taste.
If you prefer to prolong the crustiness, you can reheat the bread briefly in the oven before serving to revitalize the crust. However, keep in mind that the crust will eventually soften as time passes, regardless of storage or reheating methods.
If you have excess crusty bread, consider freezing it in airtight packaging to maintain its quality for a more extended period.
HomeMade Bread Vs Store Bought Bread
I made my decision long ago and I am kind of horrified when reading the labels more and more nowadays. And that is not only for bread!
Store-bought bread often contains a range of additives, preservatives, and high levels of sodium. These are used to extend the bread’s shelf life, enhance its flavor, and improve texture.
Another aspect to consider is the nutritional content. Many commercial breads are made with refined flours, which have been stripped of their natural fiber and nutrients during processing. This means that the nutritional benefits of these breads may be significantly reduced compared to homemade bread made with whole grains.
It’s also important to be aware of hidden sugars in store-bought bread. Some brands add sugar or high-fructose corn syrup to enhance taste and increase shelf life.
Consuming excessive preservatives, additives and excessive added sugars on a regular basis may have potential health risks. It can contribute to weight gain, increased risk of chronic diseases, and energy crashes throughout the day.
I want to emphasize that occasional consumption of store-bought bread may not pose significant health risks. However, regular and prolonged reliance on it could potentially impact our long-term health.
I encourage us to strive for moderation and balance in our overall diet. Transitioning to homemade bread, even if it has a short shelf life, offers several benefits.
I will keep sharing homemade bread recipes as I love exploring the joys of baking our own bread and enjoy the health benefits that come with it. Looking into homemade croutons at the minute.
Sometimes being naughty is allowed so in case you have some party coming up, check out my Monkey Bread recipe!
Also, this Gluten-Free Flat Bread recipe with only 2 ingredients.
If you feel especially bold, try out the Flaxseed Bread. It is the healthiest and very gut friendly option. And only 2 min in the microwave!
