Struggling to keep your bread fresh? It can be challenging, especially in humid or hot and dry weather. But don’t worry—there are effective ways to keep your morning or day-old baguette fresh and crispy. Here are 7 tried-and-true tips to help you preserve your bread longer:
- Wrap It Properly
To keep bread fresh, don’t leave it exposed to air. Use the paper bag from the bakery or a clean cotton cloth. Avoid plastic wrap or bags, which can cause the bread to become soggy or moldy. - Keep It Whole
Store your bread whole, as pre-cut slices dry out faster. If you have leftover slices, wrap them in a cloth; they’ll still be good by evening. Reheat in the oven for a minute or use them for French toast the next morning. - Freeze It
Freezing is an excellent way to extend bread’s freshness. Freeze baguettes in halves or thirds in freezer bags. They defrost quickly—about an hour at room temperature or faster in the microwave, though microwave defrosting might make the bread slightly elastic. - Store with an Apple
Place an apple in your bread bin or airtight container. This old trick works well to keep bread fresh. Some people also use a piece of sugar, a potato, or even a celery stick. - Maintain the Right Temperature
Bread stays freshest between 14°C and 18°C. Avoid hot areas near radiators or ovens, as high temperatures can dry out bread in a few hours. - Revive with the Oven
If your bread is softening or drying out, lightly moisten the crust and bake it in the oven at a low temperature (around 150°C) for a few minutes to restore crispiness. - Choose the Right Bread
If you can’t visit the bakery daily, select breads that last longer. Rye and wholemeal breads have better shelf lives than white or country bread. Also, round-shaped loaves stay fresh longer than baguettes due to their larger surface area.
With these tips, you’ll keep your bread fresh longer, making it easy, practical, and economical!
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