Sourdough bread is a masterpiece of flavor and texture, but how do you store it? The right way to store sourdough bread is right on your countertop. It should avoid the fridge entirely, but you can increase the longevity by wrapping it in plastic wrap or tin foil and placing it in the freezer.
Hi! My name is Michelle, and I love toasted sourdough bread. I eat it multiple times per week, and it never disappoints. But in order to keep it nice and fresh, I have had to learn how to store it the right way. Yes, that means stopping myself from doing a bread “sin” – storing it in the fridge.
If you have recently bought or made your own sourdough bread from home, you need to know how to store it properly. Proper storage will allow your sourdough deliciousness to remain in tip-top shape and ready for whatever recipe you throw its way.
Who’s ready to store and eat some yummy sourdough bread?
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How to Store Sourdough Bread
Whether you buy pre-made sourdough bread or make it yourself (I’m a huge fan of this recipe), it is important to store your sourdough bread correctly. But there is more than one way to store it. Let’s take a closer look.
Method 1: Countertop
The best place to store your sourdough bread is right on your countertop. Since sourdough bread is fermented slowly and has plenty of acidity, it fends off bacterial growth. That means it can last quite a few days on the counter before growing mold – sometimes up to five days!
However, this does not mean that you should toss your loaf of sourdough bread on the counter and forget about it. Unless you’re letting it sit there (cut side down) uncovered for 24 hours or less, you need to put it somewhere safe. Here are a few good ideas:
- Cotton bread bag
- Large tea towel
- Airtight container
- Bread box
- Brown paper bag
Okay, but what about plastic bread bags? Aren’t those the best storage solutions for bread? Nope. Although your store-bought loaf of sourdough bread will come in a plastic bread bag, it’s not ideal for sourdough bread.
Placing sourdough bread in a plastic bread bag can cause sweating and sogginess. Ew! Of course, this is far more common in homemade sourdough bread, especially ones that haven’t cooled off all the way.
But I still recommend moving your store-bought sourdough bread to better storage options to preserve its tastiness.
What If the Sourdough Bread Loses Freshness?
Now, around the fourth or fifth day, you might notice that your sourdough bread isn’t as fresh as it was on day one. While it’s true that the flavor will still be incredible, the texture might be a bit off. Don’t worry – there is a way to fix this.
It’s called rebaking, and surprise! It takes just as long as your original sourdough bread recipe took. Of course, you will be using a lower temperature, though, so don’t panic.
To “rebake” your sourdough bread, simply spray the loaf with some water and bake it at 325F for 25 to 30 minutes. You can also opt to flavor your sourdough bread too. For example, spritzing it with garlic butter is always an excellent idea.
Method 2: Freezer
Storing sourdough bread on the counter is the best option. However, I totally understand that some sourdough bread loaves are huge. It could be a challenge to consume the whole thing in five days or less. (That’s a whole lot of bread, and that’s coming from a carb lover).
What’s the best option to increase longevity? The fridge! No, I’m kidding. Never store sourdough bread in the refrigerator. (I’m currently yelling this through my computer screen). The fridge will dry out your sourdough bread and make it anything but scrumptious.
Better option? The freezer! There are actually two ways you can do this: by storing the entire load in the freezer or freezing slices. Personally, I prefer to freeze in slices so that I can snag a slice and make some toast in a flash. But I understand that’s not always feasible.
Here’s how to store sourdough bread in the freezer, whether it’s whole or sliced.
- For a whole loaf of sourdough bread – Make sure the bread is cooled off entirely (if homemade). Then, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. The double barrier will ensure it lasts and won’t succumb to freezer burn before you’re ready.
- For slices of sourdough bread – Again, make sure it’s cooled if homemade. Then, slice it. Wrap each slice with plastic wrap. Store all slices in a freezer bag.
Whether you are freezing the sourdough bread as a whole or a loaf, the bread will last for up to six months. When you’re ready to consume the loaf, let it thaw and help it bounce back to ultimate freshness and flavor by cooking it at 200F for 10 to 15 minutes.
When you’re ready to eat a single slice of frozen sourdough bread, toss it into the toaster and enjoy a delicious piece of toast whenever you want it. (If using for a recipe other than toast, let it thaw and then do what you please with this carby treat).
FAQs
Ah, sourdough bread, how we love you! And now we know how to properly store you, too. But do you still have some prying questions about sourdough bread storage? You’re not alone! Check out these frequently asked questions about how to store sourdough bread.
How long does sourdough bread stay fresh?
It depends on how you store it. When left on the countertop, sourdough bread can easily last up to five days. If stored in the freezer, whether left as a whole loaf or sliced into pieces, it can last up to six months.
Can I leave sourdough bread out?
Yes, in fact, you can leave sourdough bread out – uncovered – for up to 24 hours. Make sure that the cut side is facing downward, so you don’t let air into the bread, causing it to dry out. After 24 hours, place it in a safe storage solution such as a brown paper bag or tea towel.
Can you toast sourdough bread?
Um, yes, absolutely, and it might be the best toast you ever eat in your life. I like to top mine with butter if I’m eating in the morning. If used with dinner, I coat both sides with olive oil and some seasonings like rosemary and thyme. Yum!
Is sourdough bread better for you?
Yes, sourdough bread is considered better than other types of bread like white or wheat. It is easier for humans to digest and contains more nutrients and prebiotics. It also won’t spike blood sugar levels, making it a better option for those with high blood sugar.
Final Thoughts
Sourdough bread is yummy and nutritious, and it can last on your countertop for up to five days. Place in items such as a bread box or cloth for the best results. Avoid plastic bags, especially if you’re storing homemade sourdough. Avoid the fridge entirely and use the freezer for longevity.
Do you like sourdough bread? How do you store it? Share with us your sourdough bread storage solutions below!
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