STORAGE

It’s always best to enjoy artisan bread the day it’s made, preferably within a few hours. However, busy lives being what they are, even if you sometimes need to make little compromises, keep these guidelines in mind. 

·        Do not keep bread in the refrigerator, since it will dry out and become stale faster.

·        To bring out the fresh-baked flavor to eat with dinner by placing the bread directly on the oven rack or on a cookie sheet in a 400 degree oven for 5 minutes.

·        Eat within 2-3 days or freeze.

FREEZING

Many people hesitate to freeze bread, but if it’s wrapped carefully your artisan bread will maintain its quality for several weeks in the freezer.

·        Wrap bread in plastic to keep moisture in (use double bags).

·        Do not thaw in the microwave as it will affect the texture.

·        Thaw at room temperature unwrapped (3-4 hours).

·        To refresh the crust, place thawed bread directly on the oven rack or on a cookie sheet in a 400 degree oven for 5 minutes.

·        If you are in a rush, place frozen bread, wrapped in foil directly in the oven rack for 20-30 minutes.