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How to Store Sourdough Bread to Make it Last Longer

If you’ve ever wondered how to store sourdough bread to keep it fresher for longer, you’re not alone. Artisan sourdough contains no preservatives, which means it can dry out faster if not stored correctly. From storage advice to freezing tricks and hacks to revive stale bread, here are some of our best tips for making your sourdough last longer.

Why Proper Sourdough Storage Matters

Keeps Bread Fresher, Longer

The thing that makes sourdough bread unique is the chewy texture against the crispy outer crust, and storing it correctly will help to maintain this. No one wants a rock-hard slice of sourdough, so make sure you’ve wrapped it correctly to not compromise on the flavour.

Helps Reduce Food Waste

Whether it’s with eggs in the morning, an afternoon snack with jam, or just a warm slice with butter, there are many ways to eat a slice of sourdough. Storing sourdough correctly not only means you get to enjoy your loaf for longer, it also means reducing the likelihood of food waste, which is something we care deeply about here at Milk & More.

How to Store Sourdough Bread

The best way to keep your sourdough bread light and airy with a chewy crusty exterior is at room temperature in a plastic-free bread bin.

We recommend wrapping it in breathable packaging, whether this is the paper it comes in, wrapped in a tea towel, a linen bread bag or beeswax wrap. This will allow some airflow, preventing the loaf from getting soggy whilst protecting it from getting dried out.

When you first slice the sourdough, place the sliced side down on a chopping board. After a day or two, the crust may begin to get a little soft. When it does, you need to put it in a bread bin. After about 4-5 days, we’d recommend slicing up the bread and freezing it.

Tip: Don’t put your sourdough in the fridge - cold air makes bread go stale faster!


Can You Freeze Sourdough Bread?

Yes! You can freeze sourdough bread to extend its lifespan and continue to enjoy it for weeks after baking. You can freeze sourdough for up to six months.

To freeze, you should slice the loaf up in individual pieces and wrap tightly in baking paper or beeswax wrap, then inside a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.

When you want to have a slice, simply pop it in the toaster from frozen, or if you’ve frozen the whole loaf, put it in the oven for 15 minutes.


How Long Does Sourdough Bread Last?

If your loaf is kept at room temperature, it can typically last between 2-3 days before it begins to dry out. If stored correctly, it can last up to 5 days, but after that, it’s best to toast, freeze or repurpose it for something else.


Low-Waste Storage Hacks

Beeswax Wraps and Linen Bags

If you’re looking for something eco-friendly and effective, then beeswax wraps and linen bags are perfect. Your sourdough will be kept fresh whilst reducing plastic waste.

Bread Box and Celery Stick Trick

This might sound crazy, but trust us - it works!

Place a celery stick in your bread box to help maintain the right level of humidity. You want to keep your sourdough moist and light without softening the crust, and a celery stick will do the trick.

Reviving Slices in the Oven

If your sourdough starts to go a bit stale but you haven’t frozen it yet, there’s an easy way to revive the loaf.

Sprinkle a little bit of water over the bread and warm it in the oven at 180°c for a few minutes. Make sure it goes straight onto the oven shelf and not on a tray. Your bread will regain its fresh-baked crunch in no time. Now all you need is lovely salted butter!


Don’t Waste It – Repurpose Stale Bread

Stale, leftover bread can open up a new world of opportunities, so don’t let it go to waste. If you’re stuck on what to do, then we have a few tips for you.
 

  • Cut the bread into small squares and bake in the oven. These crunchy, golden croutons will be perfect for your next salad or soup.
  • Blend the bread up in a food processor and use the breadcrumbs for coatings, stuffings or sprinkle over your next mac and cheese.
  • After something sweet? Try a warm, rich and hearty bread and butter pudding.

Shop Artisan Sourdough with Milk & More

Our sourdough at Milk & More is something we pride ourselves on. From Wholegrain & Rye Warburtons to our signature Artisan Bakery Classic White Sourdough Bloomer, we have a huge range for all different tastes and occasions. With our tips and tricks on how to store sourdough bread, we hope you can enjoy every slice and also reduce food waste.