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Poke Test

Press dough to check if it's ready to bake.

Poke Test: finger pressing proofed dough leaving a visible indentation
A floured finger dent that fills back slowly is a loaf ready to bake.

A tactile test to check if dough is properly proofed. Press a floured finger about 1/2 inch into the dough. If it springs back slowly and leaves a slight indent, it's ready. If it springs back quickly, it needs more time. If it doesn't spring back, it's overproofed.

By Henry Hunter · Updated

Henry's notes from the bench

  • This is more reliable than watching the clock. Dough doesn't wear a watch!

Connected terms

ProofingOverproofedUnderproofed

Watch it at the bench

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Report a correction for this termCorrection inbox owner: Henry Hunter · Reply within 7 days

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