How to Soften Hard Bread

How to make hard bread soft!

There's nothing more disappointing than discovering your favorite loaf of bread has gone stale. But don’t worry, because you can bring it back to life! In this post, we’re diving into all the tips and tricks for how to soften hard bread, revive stale bread, and make the most out of your loaf. Let’s get started on your journey to delicious, soft bread again!

Jump to:

How to make hard bread soft!
The Oven and Water Method
Microwave Method
Air Fryer Method
Uses for Stale Bread?
How to Revive Stale Bread?
Stale bread casserole recipes

Photo Sqaurespace

Why Does Bread Go Stale?

Before we jump into how to soften hard bread, it’s important to understand why bread goes stale in the first place. When bread loses moisture, it becomes dry and hard. This happens naturally over time as the water in the bread evaporates. The good news is that even stale bread can be revived!

Photo Sqaurespace

Quick Methods to Soften Hard Bread

The Oven and Water Method

One of the simplest and most effective ways to soften hard bread is using water. Here’s how you do it:

My go-to method, having saved many a loaf in my house, is this technique. Run the bread under the tap and then heat it at 450°F for about 10 minutes. You don’t need to use aluminum foil and it couldn't be easier.

Don't be timid; get the crust good and wet before proceeding. This method works like magic and can revive stale bread in no time!

Microwave Method

Moisten a section of paper towel long enough to completely cover your loaf of bread (or the portion that you intend to eat). ...

Wrap your portion of bread in your damp paper towel snuggly.

Place your covered loaf or slice into your microwave.

Microwave for 10 seconds or until soft.

Dampen the Bread: Lightly run the bread under cold water to reintroduce moisture. You can also use a damp paper towel to wipe the bread.

Air Fryer Method

Place the dampened bread in the air fryer basket.

Set Temperature and Time: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C). Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the interior is steamy.

Check for Doneness: The bread is ready when it's crispy on the outside and soft and steamy on the inside.

Uses for Stale Bread?

If you don’t want to revive the hard bread,and simply use the stale bread, you have many options!

Photo Sqarespace

Stale Bread Ideas

Stale bread can be used in various creative ways, such as:

Bread crumbs
Croutons
Bread pudding
French toast
Stuffing
Panzanella (Italian bread salad)

Photo by Mediterranean Dish

How to Revive Stale Bread?

Reviving stale bread doesn’t have to be a chore. With these simple methods, you can bring back the soft, delicious texture you love.. Plus, with so many creative stale bread ideas, you might find yourself hoping for bread to go stale just so you can try something new! haha!

Do you have your own tips for how to soften hard bread or revive stale bread? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!