Baker how-to

How to Mix and Proof Bread Dough

Good fermentation gives bread flavor and structure.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Good fermentation gives bread flavor and structure. In short: scale; mix; mix, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Scale ingredients precisely.

  2. Mix flour and water, then add yeast and salt.

  3. Mix until the dough develops gluten.

  4. Let the dough ferment, folding as needed.

  5. Divide and shape loaves.

  6. Proof until the dough springs back slowly when pressed.

Safety reminders for bakers

  • Use oven mitts and watch for burns
  • Lift flour bags properly
  • Keep mixers guarded and turn them off before reaching in
  • Follow allergen labeling

Scaling · Baker’s percentage · Proofing · Fermentation · Gluten · Lamination: see the full baker glossary.

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