Hello, Barbara! When you wind up with a large air pocket under your top crust, that's a sign that the loaf needed to proof a little longer before the baking cycle starter. Take a peek in your machine's manual to see if there's a way to extend the rising time by another 5 or 10 minutes. As for the softening, that's pretty typical for any kind of crisp bread. After the first couple of days, any bread will be better toasted. If you have any other questions, our free and friendly Baker's Hotline is available at 855-371-BAKE (2253) or through chat and email on our website so always feel free to reach out. Annabelle@KAF

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