Proofing Dough Without a Dough Proofer

When it comes to baking bread, many commercial catering companies and restaurants will use a bread maker to create a high volume of bread. But when it comes to proofing your bread dough before throwing it in the oven, you don’t always need to invest in a dough proofer. At Zanduco Restaurant Equipment & Supplies, we’ve helped many come up with easy ways to serve the best fresh bread. 

Here we’ve collected some ways to proof high-quality dough without having to invest in a dough proofer, so read on! 

What is Dough Proofing?

Before going any further, it’s important to understand what dough proofing is. Unless you frequently make bread or own a bakery, you might not be sure precisely why dough needs to be proofed before being cooked. Dough proofing is what helps give yeasted bread that nice, fluffy texture when it’s rising in the oven. It’s the last step you perform before cooking it. Proofing dough is the final fermentation process where you let it rise at a temperature between 75-80 degrees. It’s often done either in the oven itself, a glass bowl at room temperature, or a specialized proofing box. 

Proofing at Room Temperature

When you proof dough at room temperature, the best way to do so is using a glass bowl or a proofing basket. You can also use a bread tin if you want your dough to be a specific shape or size. To proof your dough, simply cover it with a warm paper towel or cloth so it remains moist during the process; you can also use cling wrap. For stickier dough, add a small amount of oil to it so it doesn’t stick to what you’re proofing it in.

Proofing in the Oven

When proofing dough in the oven, you can place a glass baking dish on the bottom rack filled with boiling water to ensure the inside of the oven reaches the right temperature. Then, simply close the door and it will create the perfect atmosphere for proofing dough; leave it in for around 30-45 minutes. 

Proofing Dough with a Proofing Box

As mentioned above, there are boxes made specifically for proofing dough. These dough proofing boxes are designed to maintain a consistent temperature inside and enable you to get a perfect rise every single time. It also enables you to proof your dough quicker than if you were doing so simply by proofing it at room temperature.

Contact us for dough proofing boxes and more baking supplies!

If you’re in need of dough proofing products, contact us online today or call 1 (855) 926-3826.