How to Cool Bread

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After making homemade bread, you'll need to cool it after removing it from the oven. To keep the bread in top shape, it needs to be cooled properly to avoid sweating, stickiness, or too much softness.

This method relates to yeasted breads, not unleavened varieties.

Steps

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    The recipe may make a certain cooling method apparent and this should be followed to ensure the outcome promised by the recipe. [1] If not, follow the method outlined here.
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    Use oven mitts to protect your hands from both the hot pan and oven. When handling the hot bread, consider leaving the mitts on initially.
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    This is important because bread left in the pan outside of the oven will become moist, soggy, and sponge-like very quickly as the moisture in the pan condenses onto the bread.
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    Leave to cool, or you can take slices of the bread when warm for a "hot bread" treat. [2]
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    This will ensure that it stays crisp around the crust. [3]
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  • Question
    Should bread be cooled on its side?
    Community Answer
    No, you do not have to cool the bread on its side.
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  • Question
    Do I have to cool it on the windowsill? I don't have a screen, and there are pigeons outside.
    Community Answer
    You can just cool it on a wire rack on a counter.
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  • Question
    Can I cool gluten-free bread in the fridge?
    Community Answer
    Sure, but keep it tightly sealed in a plastic bag so that it doesn't absorb any smells from the fridge.
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      Tips

      • Bread can be frozen. Ensure it is completely cold, then wrap in foil and place inside a freezer bag. Freeze for up to three months. [4]
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      • Store bread at room temperature for best results. [5]
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      Things You'll Need

      • Wire cooling rack
      • Oven mitts for handling hot pan and bread
      • Paper or plastic for room temperature storage
      • Foil and sealable plastic bag for freezer storage

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.allrecipes.com/recipes/156/bread/
      2. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/how-to-glaze-bake-and-cool-bread-loaves-at-home-article
      3. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/how-to-keep-bread-fresh-article
      4. ↑ https://www.thekitchn.com/the-best-way-to-freeze-and-thaw-bread-246477
      5. ↑ https://www.stilltasty.com/questions/index/18

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