Storage & Freezing Yeast Breads
- When the yeast bread has completely cooled, wrap in an airtight plastic bag, plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This may cause crusty breads to soften a bit. Store at room temperature up to 2 days. Do not store bread in the refrigerator. Refrigeration pulls moisture from bread, which speeds up the staling process and causes the bread to dry out. For longer storage, freeze the bread.
- Most yeast breads and rolls freeze well. To freeze, wrap securely in aluminum foil, freezer wrap or place in freezer bags. Baked bread may be sliced before freezing. Label all packages with the name of the recipe and the date. Use within the recommended time (6 months) for the best flavor and texture. Baked products should be stored at 0°F or lower.
- Whole bread loaves or yeast rolls and bread slices can be thawed completely at room temperature. Eat as soon as possible; bread that has been frozen dries out more quickly than freshly baked bread.
- To heat frozen rolls, individual loaves or bread slices in the microwave oven, place unwrapped on a napkin, microwave-safe paper towel or plate. Microwave on HIGH about 10 to 15 seconds for each piece.
