What Happens If You Don’t Slash Bread?

A loaf of bread

Slashing or scoring bread refers to making shallow cuts or incisions on the surface of the dough before baking. When it comes to baking bread, this seemingly small detail plays a crucial role in the bread-making process and greatly influences the final outcome. In this article, we will explore the importance of scoring bread and … Read more

What Does Acid Do to Bread Dough: Understanding the Role of Acid in Baking

Two balls of bread dough on a floured granite surface.

Acids play a crucial role in bread-making by influencing various aspects of the dough, fermentation process, texture, and flavor of the final bread. This article aims to provide a brief overview of how acid influences various aspects of bread-making. In bread dough, the acidity that develops naturally through fermentation, as well as the use of … Read more

What Are the Disadvantages of a Bread Maker? – Insights from Personal Experience

Whole wheat bread slices

While bread makers offer undeniable benefits, such as convenience and time-saving, they also come with a set of disadvantages. Through my personal experience, I have discovered both their advantages and limitations. In this article, we will explore the downsides of bread makers and the challenges that bread maker owners may face. While bread makers can … Read more

Can You Use a Sourdough Starter That Smells Like Acetone?

bubbling sourdough starter in a glass bowl

Sourdough bread not only has a distinctive, tangy flavor but it’s also believed to be healthier and easier to digest. However, there are many factors that can affect the quality of the sourdough bread. One common issue that sourdough bakers encounter is a starter that smells like acetone. In this article, we’ll explore what causes … Read more

What Is the Difference Between Basic Bread and Quick Bread?

Irish soda bread dough on a baking paper.

Bread has been a staple food for centuries, with countless variations and styles across cultures and regions. Among the many types of bread, two main categories stand out: basic bread and quick bread. While both types share similarities, such as the use of flour and baking, there are fundamental differences in their preparation, ingredients, and … Read more

Why is My Bread Hard After Cooling?

A baguette

Freshly baked bread is delightful and loved by many. However, homemade bread can sometimes become hard and dry after cooling, which can be frustrating, especially after putting in so much effort to make the perfect loaf. In this article, we will explore some common reasons why bread turns hard after cooling and offer tips to … Read more

What Inhibits Gluten Formation? – 7 Factors You Should Be Aware Of

Dough in a Kenwood Chef mixing bowl with a dough hook

Gluten is a protein found in wheat that is essential in preparing baked goods like bread, pizza, and pastries. It provides structure and stretchability to the dough, allowing it to rise and hold its shape during baking. However, in some pastry products, it’s desirable to prevent gluten from forming. To produce high-quality bakery items, it’s … Read more

Should My Bread Dough Be Sticky?

A bread dough and a hand that sprinkles flour.

As a home baker just starting, you might wonder if bread dough should be sticky. The answer to this question can vary depending on the type of bread you are making, and some additional factors, which we will explore in this article. In short, yes, bread dough should be sticky initially when mixing. However, proper … Read more