A Guide to Freezing Baked Goods

There's nothing quite like the taste of freshly baked goods, but preserving that freshness can be a challenge. With the right freezing method, however, you can enjoy your favorite treats for months to come. Whether it's homemade cookies or a loaf of bread, freezing allows you to savor that just-baked flavor whenever you crave it. Here are specific methods for different sorts of bread.

To keep your freshly baked peasant or sourdough loaves tasting their best, follow these simple steps: First, wrap the whole loaves tightly in plastic wrap. Then, seal them in a large freezer bag for extra protection. If you plan on using the bread for sandwiches or toast, it's best to slice it before freezing. This way, you can easily grab a slice or two as needed without thawing the entire loaf. When you're ready to enjoy your bread, simply thaw it at room temperature. This allows the bread to reabsorb any condensation that may have formed during freezing, ensuring a deliciously fresh taste every time.

How to Freeze Banana Bread and Quick Breads

Freezing quick bread is a game-changer for busy mornings and preserving that homemade goodness. For banana bread and other quick breads like pumpkin or zucchini, ensure their deliciousness lasts by wrapping the loaf tightly in several layers of plastic wrap. Then, transfer the wrapped loaf to a resealable freezer bag, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing it tight. Freeze for up to 2 months, and when you're craving a slice, simply thaw it on the counter. Enjoy the convenience of having these tasty treats ready whenever you need them!

How to Freeze Bagels

For bagels, slice them in half before freezing to maintain freshness and convenience. Wrap each half tightly in plastic wrap or stash them in a resealable sandwich bag, removing excess air before sealing. Then, place your wrapped bagels in a larger freezer bag, label them with the date, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, there's no need to thaw them before toasting!

How to Freeze Muffins and Scones

Freeze single-portion baked goods like muffins and scones use the same method as with bagels. Wrap each item individually in plastic wrap or place them in resealable sandwich bags. Then, place the wrapped items inside a large freezer bag to keep them organized during storage. Freeze for up to 2 months, and when you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven or toaster oven at 300 to 325 degrees F — no need to defrost them first!

How to Freeze Sliced Sandwich Bread and Hamburger Buns

Soft, squishy baked goods like sliced sandwich bread, hamburger buns, and hotdog buns, can last longer at room temperature, but you still want to prevent them from getting moldy or stale. These items freeze well right in their packaging, but make sure the bag is tightly sealed. For extra protection, place the package in a resealable freezer bag and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw on the counter and enjoy fresh-tasting bread and buns whenever you need them!

How to Freeze Cakes

For unassembled, undecorated cake layers or loaf cakes, ensure they are completely cool before wrapping them tightly. Use several layers of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to seal in freshness. Don't forget to label and date each item before placing them in individual freezer bags or a freezer-safe container. They'll stay fresh for 1 to 2 months when frozen this way.

When freezing, place the cakes on a level surface to prevent them from getting crushed. Thaw the layers for about an hour at room temperature before assembling your cake — slightly frozen layers are easier to work with.

Decorated whole and sliced cakes can also be frozen successfully. For frosted cakes, freeze them unwrapped on a baking sheet until solid (about 4 to 6 hours). Then, wrap the cake in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, label, and date it. To prevent damage during storage, place the wrapped cake inside a sturdy freezer-safe container. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator after unwrapping it.

To freeze cake slices, place them unwrapped on a baking sheet. Once frozen, wrap each slice individually with plastic and foil before storing them in a freezer-safe container.