Bread is perfect for home bakers because there are countless varieties, depending on the flavor and texture that you’re looking for.
If you regularly purchase bread from a local grocery store or even from a local baker, you’ve probably found that the loaves can last for a week or even longer in some cases.
Baking at home will be a little different, as most recipes lack the preservatives that are found in commercial bread.
How long should homemade bread last? Let’s find out in this guide.
Bread Basics – Shelf Life
Compared to other perishables, bread lasts a relatively short time.
- Commercial bread typically lasts up to seven days after the date of purchase unless it has been sitting on the store shelf for a long time. You can check the best-before date on the tag.
- Homemade bread is usually soft and fresh for around three to four days.
Keep in mind that just because bread is past its freshest, it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy it.
When bread begins to go stale it’s perfect for use as toast.
Making Your Homemade Bread Last Longer
No matter what type of bread you make at home, you can have your loaves stay fresher for longer by storing them properly.
Store bread at room temperature unwrapped.
Any kind of container will do.
A plastic container is the easiest for most homes.
Choose a container with a sealable lid.
This Buddeez Bread Dispenser is perfectly shaped for homemade loaves and is a good choice if you don’t have a suitable container at home.
It’s the perfect cabinet for storing bread and other baked goods like muffins and rolls.
Should You Store Bread in the Fridge or Freezer?
Storing your bread in the fridge can extend its life, but the temperature can change the texture.
This is a good idea if you’re planning to use your homemade bread for simple toast or toasted sandwiches.
If you’ve made drier varieties like pita bread or soda bread, then the refrigerator is a good option.
It will prevent the bread from taking on too much moisture and softening.
If you want to store bread for long-term use, you can also place it in the freezer.
It’s important that the bread is sealed before placing it in the freezer.
Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in a large sealable freezer bag.
These large Ziploc Bags are resealable and are great for bread as well as any other ingredients that you want to store in the fridge or freezer.
Homemade Bread is Best Enjoyed Fresh
Your homemade bread will taste best when it is fresh and stored at room temperature.
You can use your fridge or freezer to store bread for longer, but it won’t taste or feel quite the same.
Every great loaf requires a suitable bread pan for baking.
You should use a nonstick pan to keep your loaf completely intact with a delicious brown crust.
They’ll work with any of your recipes or store-bought bread mixes.
Baking at home is a great way to enjoy bread.
Because you can easily make bread at any time, you won’t have to worry about storing store-bought bread long-term.
