How To Freeze Sourdough Starter
Unlock the secret to preserving your sourdough starter by freezing it. This in-depth guide teaches you how to effectively freeze, thaw and revive your sourdough starter, ensuring it's always ready for your next baking project.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough starter active
Instructions
Freeze Sourdough Starter:
- Feed starter and wait until it's bubbly, active, and has doubled in size. Portion ½ cup to 1 cup of starter into a small ziplock bag. Lay flat and squeeze the air out of the bag before sealing.
- Label the bag and include the date. Place in the freezer for safekeeping!
- The frozen sourdough starter that's not damaged by freezer burn or thaw/freeze cycles will last up to 12 months or more.
Revive Frozen Starter:
- Allow the frozen starter to thaw at room temperature until warmed through, around 12 hours.
- Feed 50g starter with 50g water and 50g fresh flour every 24 hours until it's bubbly and active!
Notes
storage
- Freeze in Portions: Freeze your sourdough starter in usable portions. This could be 1 cup or 1/2 cup increments, depending on how much you typically use at a time. This allows you to only thaw what you need.
- Use Freezer-Safe Containers: Use freezer safe plastic bags or containers to store your starter - if using glass containers - first freeze your sourdough starter in ice cube trays or cupcake liners, then transfer to the glass jar once frozen. It can be helpful to separate each layer with a piece of parchment paper.
- Label and Date: Always label your containers with the date of freezing. While your starter can stay in the freezer for a long time (up to a year), this helps to you use the oldest starter first, keeping your stock fresher.
- Keep it in the Bag: Store frozen sourdough starter in the back part of your freezer, away from temperature fluctuations.
