Can you freeze sourdough bread?


Can you freeze sourdough bread? Find out how to extend your sourdough’s shelf life and keep it tasting fresh for weeks!


Published: October 10, 2024 · Modified: October 10, 2024 by Jennifer Ryan

sliced bread on a cutting board

Can You Freeze Sourdough Bread? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

If you’ve ever baked or bought a beautiful loaf of sourdough, you know that it’s not the kind of bread you want to let go to waste. Sourdough’s tangy flavor, chewy texture, and crisp crust are best enjoyed fresh, but what happens if you can’t finish the loaf in time? Don’t worry—I’ve been there too! And yes, you can absolutely freeze sourdough bread to enjoy later. Here’s a guide on how to do it right so you can keep your sourdough tasting fresh and delicious.

Why Is sourdough such a big deal?

Why Freeze Sourdough Bread?

Freezing is one of the best ways to preserve sourdough bread because it halts the staling process. Unlike refrigerating, which can actually make bread go stale faster, freezing locks in the bread’s moisture and texture, allowing you to enjoy that fresh-baked taste days, weeks, or even months later. Whether you’ve baked a few too many loaves or just want to save some for later, freezing is a great option.

How to Freeze Sourdough Bread Properly

Freezing sourdough is simple, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure your bread stays as fresh as possible.

  1. Cool the Bread Completely: Before freezing, make sure your sourdough loaf is completely cooled to room temperature. Freezing bread while it’s still warm can create condensation inside the packaging, leading to ice crystals that can affect the texture of the bread when thawed.
  2. Slice Before Freezing (Optional but Recommended): If you plan to enjoy your sourdough slice by slice, consider pre-slicing the loaf before freezing. This makes it easy to grab just what you need without having to thaw the entire loaf. Plus, sliced bread thaws faster and more evenly.
  3. Wrap It Well: Proper wrapping is crucial to prevent freezer burn, which can dry out your bread and affect its taste. Wrap your loaf or slices tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no gaps where air can get in. For extra protection, follow up with a freezer-safe, airtight bag. If you’re freezing slices, you can stack them, separated by parchment paper, to prevent sticking.
  4. Label and Date: It’s easy to forget how long something has been in the freezer, so don’t skip labeling your bread with the date. While sourdough can last in the freezer for up to three months, it’s best to enjoy it within the first month or two for optimal flavor and texture.
Is sourdough bread a superfood

How to Thaw Sourdough Bread

Thawing sourdough properly is just as important as freezing it correctly. Here are a few methods that work well:

  1. At Room Temperature: The best and easiest way to thaw a whole loaf or slices is to let them sit at room temperature. For a whole loaf, keep it wrapped and let it thaw for several hours or overnight. For individual slices, simply remove the plastic wrap and let them thaw on the counter for about 20-30 minutes.
  2. Reheat in the Oven: For that just-baked feel, reheat your thawed bread in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the bread directly on the oven rack, and warm it for about 10-15 minutes. This helps revive the crust and gives the bread that fresh, crisp texture.
  3. Toaster or Toaster Oven: For pre-sliced bread, popping it straight into the toaster from the freezer works great. Not only does it thaw the slice, but it also crisps up the edges, making it perfect for toast, bruschetta, or sandwiches.
  4. Avoid the Microwave: While tempting, microwaving bread to thaw it can result in a gummy, chewy texture that’s less than ideal. Stick to room temperature or oven methods for the best results.

Tips for Freezing Different Sourdough Variations

  • Plain Sourdough Loaves: These freeze and thaw the best. Whether you have a round boule, batard, or a long baguette-style loaf, the simple ingredients and lack of additional toppings make freezing straightforward.
  • Sourdough with Add-ins (like seeds, nuts, or fruit): These can also be frozen, but keep in mind that some add-ins like dried fruit may change slightly in texture after freezing. Wrap tightly to prevent any freezer odors from seeping in, which can affect the added flavors.
  • Sourdough Rolls and Buns: These freeze beautifully and are great to have on hand for a quick meal. Simply wrap them individually and store them in an airtight bag.
  • Sourdough Pizza Dough or Flatbreads: If you’ve made extra dough or flatbreads, these can also be frozen. Wrap the dough tightly and let it thaw overnight in the fridge before using. Flatbreads can be thawed and warmed in the oven, just like a loaf.
Cherry Compote Sourdough Bread

How Long Can You Freeze Sourdough?

Sourdough bread is best enjoyed within three months of freezing, for the best flavor and texture. Over time, even well-wrapped bread can start to lose some of its freshness and develop freezer burn. I like to set a reminder to use up frozen bread within a month or two—it’s the sweet spot for enjoying it at its best.

Does Freezing Affect the Flavor or Texture of Sourdough?

One of the best things about sourdough is that it holds up remarkably well to freezing. Unlike some softer breads, sourdough’s sturdy crust and chewy crumb maintain their quality when frozen and thawed correctly. While you might notice a very slight change in the crust’s crispness, a quick reheat in the oven usually brings it right back to life.
From my experience, freezing doesn’t significantly impact the bread’s signature tangy flavor. In fact, it can be a lifesaver, helping you stretch the life of a fresh loaf and enjoy your hard work (or favorite bakery find) long after the day it’s baked.

Sundried tomato Sourdough Bread

If you’re new to the world of sourdough or looking to up your game, be sure to check out our articles on sourdough basics, along with creative recipes like our sundried tomato sourdough bread, cherry compote sourdough bread, cheese jalapeño sourdough bread, and classic sourdough bread. You’ll also find helpful tips for baking, freezing, and storing your bread to keep it fresh and flavorful. Happy freezing!