Secret to longer-lasting bread: How sugar cubes can keep your loaf fresh
A crispy crust is every bread lover's dream. However, keeping bread fresh is a real challenge, especially when we want to enjoy it for several days. Is there a simple way to make our bread retain its flavour longer? It turns out there’s a small trick that will revolutionise bread storage in your kitchen!
9 August 2024 15:01
Bread, especially freshly baked with a crispy crust and soft interior, is one of the favourite components of many people's daily meals. Unfortunately, bread quickly loses its freshness – it becomes hard, dry, and sometimes even mouldy. Is there a way to enjoy fresh bread longer without visiting the bakery daily? Of course there is! A simple trick will allow you to extend the freshness of your bread and protect it from mould. All you need to do is add two sugar cubes to your bread bin.
Why does bread harden and mould quickly?
Moisture is bread’s biggest enemy. Too much water vapour around the bread promotes mould growth, while too dry air causes it to dry out and harden. On the other hand, too-tight packaging, such as a plastic wrap, limits air access, leading to mould growth.
How to properly store bread?
- Bread bin: This is a classic way to store bread. However, it’s important to remember that not every bread bin is good. The best ones are made of natural materials, such as wood or bamboo, which ensure proper air circulation.
- Linen cloth: Wrapping bread in a linen cloth is another tried-and-true method. Linen absorbs excess moisture while allowing the bread to breathe.
- Away from heat sources: Never store bread near stoves or radiators. High temperatures accelerate the bread's ageing process.
The secret weapon for fresh bread – sugar cubes
Did you know that ordinary sugar cubes can significantly affect the longevity of your bread? It’s a simple and effective way to keep bread fresh for longer. How does it work? Sugar cubes absorb excess moisture from the surroundings, creating optimal conditions for storing bread. As a result, the bread remains soft longer and doesn’t mould.
How to use sugar cubes?
- Choose the right bread bin: Choose a bread bin made of natural materials that will ensure good air circulation.
- Prepare the sugar cubes: Prepare two sugar cubes.
- Place the cubes in the bread bin: Place the sugar cubes in different parts of the bread bin.
- Regularly replace the cubes: Check the condition of the sugar cubes every few days and replace them with new ones when they soften.
Freezing bread – an alternative way to extend freshness
If you want to ensure your bread is always fresh, you can freeze it. Frozen bread retains its properties for several months. Before freezing, cut the bread into portions and pack it tightly in plastic bags. To defrost bread, simply take it out of the freezer a few hours before consumption (GMT time).
