How to Store Artisan Bread

Artisan bread has a crispy crust and delicate center.

Unlike most sandwich-style breads, which are made in a single afternoon, artisan bread often takes up to two whole days to make. For the majority of this time, artisan bread dough goes through a fermentation process, which improves flavor, texture and prolongs the shelf life. Due to the time and care involved in making artisan bread, it's important to properly store it.

Things You'll Need

• Paper bag
• Aluminum foil
• Freezer bag

Instructions

1. Put the artisan bread in a paper bag. Fold the top of the paper bag over to restrict air flow to the bread.

2. Store the bagged bread in a dark, dry area, such as a pantry. The bread is at its prime taste and texture for the first 48 hours.

3. Wrap any unused bread in aluminum foil after the 48-hour period.

4. Place the wrapped bread in a freezer bag. Store the bread in the freezer.

Tips & Warnings

• When thawing bread, let it sit out at room temperature.

References

• Wheat Foods: How to Store Bread
• Bread Machine Digest: Storing, Slicing and Freezing Bread

Resources

• Utah State University Extension: Soup & Artisan Bread