I'm pretty pleased at how this loaf turned out, but I'm having a hard time judging when things are properly proofed. I think I just got lucky here, but could I have proofed longer / shorter? Was it baked long enough?

Also, the taste was great, but I was hoping it'd be a little more sour. How would I get that? This loaf was autolysed for 45 mins, bulk fermented (w folds) for about 6 hours @80F, then shaped and proofed at room temp for about 1.5 hours, then in the fridge for 12 hours. Baked covered in Dutch oven 500f 20 mins then 30min uncovered at 450.

Thanks for your help!

by kerplunk5975

24 Comments

  1. Ian1732

    THAT’S your first time? She’s gorgeous! How’d it taste?

  2. JackSupern0va

    That’s a pretty serious process and end result for a first-timer!

  3. Speckledmooncrow

    Which recipe did you follow? This looks phenomenal!

  4. mushroom_HEAD88

    Well done.

    Increase your cold proof 24-36 hours for increased sour taste.

  5. Routine-Music-1537

    Amazing! Well done for your first try!!

  6. bagelwholedonutwhole

    Looks perfect in both shape and form

  7. ChronicallyMental

    Bravo!! Excellent first try! Can it get any better?!? lol

    I did not have your level of starter success on my first levain loaf. You’re a natural!

  8. Don_Q_Jote

    I don’t know how I can judge without tasting the results. When can I stop by?

    It looks great.

  9. petewondrstone

    What kind of feedback do you want? It’s perfect.

  10. cravingcarrot

    Quit while you’re ahead. It doesn’t get much better than that

  11. shootbydaylight

    Looks great! Also, first pic looks like 2 bunnies rubbing noses.

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