How to Care for Your Sourdough Loaf
At Bethencourt Bakehouse, we believe that great bread deserves proper care. Our naturally leavened sourdough loaves are made to last, but how you store and handle them makes all the difference. Here’s how to keep your bread fresh and flavorful for as long as possible.
1. Store at Room Temperature (Not in the Fridge!)
One of the biggest mistakes people make is storing bread in the refrigerator. While it might seem like a good way to keep it fresh, the cold temperature actually dries out the bread faster. Instead, follow these steps:
Keep your loaf in a paper bag or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to maintain the crust while allowing airflow.
Store it cut-side down on a wooden board to prevent the exposed interior from drying out.
2. Extend Freshness with a Bread Box
If you have a bread box, use it! Bread boxes create the perfect environment—keeping the loaf from drying out while preventing excess moisture that can lead to mold.
3. Freezing for Longer Storage
If you won’t finish your sourdough within a few days, freezing is the best way to preserve it. Here’s how:
Slice the bread before freezing to make it easier to grab what you need.
Wrap the slices or whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap or a reusable freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
When ready to eat, thaw slices at room temperature or toast them directly from frozen for a fresh taste.
4. Reviving a Slightly Stale Loaf
If your bread has started to dry out, don’t worry—there’s an easy fix:
Sprinkle or mist the crust with a little water. (Don't be afraid of the water, it will dry)
Wrap the loaf in foil and place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
For a crispier crust, remove the foil for the last few minutes.
5. Creative Ways to Use Leftover Sourdough
Even if your loaf is past its prime, you don’t have to waste it! Here are some delicious ideas:
Croutons: Cube the bread, toss with olive oil and herbs, and bake until crispy.
Breadcrumbs: Blend dried-out bread into fine crumbs for cooking.
French Toast or Bread Pudding: Stale bread soaks up custard beautifully for an indulgent breakfast or dessert.
Panzanella Salad: Mix torn bread with fresh tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and vinegar for a rustic Italian salad.
Because Real Bread Deserves Real Care
With just a little effort, you can enjoy your sourdough for days—or even weeks—without losing its amazing texture and flavor. Want to be the first to know when our next batch is fresh out of the oven?