Satisfy your baking cravings with these five top tips on setting the right oven temperatures. Get perfect results, every time you bake!
Bread-making has been around for centuries, but professional bakers have perfected the technique through trial and error. While different types of bread benefit from different baking temperatures, getting it just right means you can expect a loaf that’s light and fluffy on the inside with a crisp crust.
What Oven Temperatures to Bake Bread
Baking bread can be a tricky business. With so many different types of bread, it can be difficult to know what temperature to bake them at. Generally speaking, the temperature for baking bread ranges from 325F to 500F. This is a broad range that can leave some people scratching their heads.
The temperature you should use when baking bread depends on the type of bread you are making. Generally, white sandwich loaves bake at 350-375F while artisan and rustic loaves bake at 425-450F and focaccia and pizza dough should be baked at 500F or higher. Following the recipe’s instructions is always recommended for best results.
1. “Regular” Sandwich Bread
Regular sandwich bread is a staple in many households, as it is easy to make and can be used for a variety of recipes. Whether you prefer to bake it in the oven or use a bread machine, regular sandwich bread is an essential ingredient for sandwiches, toast, French toast, and more.
Regular sandwich bread should be kneaded, placed into greased loaf pans, and baked in an oven between 350F and 425F depending on the type. The loaves should be cooled before slicing and can also be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
2. Sourdough Bread
Sourdough bread is a unique type of rustic bread that requires higher heat than other types of bread. The recommended temperature for baking sourdough is 450F, although some bakers opt for 500F.
This high heat helps to create the perfect crust and texture that makes sourdough so special. Additionally, it’s important to note that sourdough needs an ample amount of steam in order to bake correctly, which is why baking with a Dutch oven is highly recommended.
3. High-fat Bread (Brioche, Hokkaido milik Bread, etc.)
High-fat breads like brioche and Hokkaido milk bread are some of the most delicious treats out there. Just thinking about them is enough to make my mouth water. I’m sure yours does too! If you’re planning to bake high-fat bread, it’s important to follow the recipe closely. Each type of high-fat bread will require a specific temperature, but most bake around 350F.
4. Quick Bread (Banana Bread, Zucchini Bread, etc.)
Quick breads, like zucchini or banana bread, are a type of cake that requires a lower oven temperature (325F) for baking. This helps the bread rise evenly and gives it a light texture for enjoying with butter or jam.
5. Bagels/Buns
Bagels and buns are two types of bread that require a lot of heat to make. Bagels, in particular, need to be cooked at a high temperature, usually 425F or higher. This is because the dough needs to be boiled before it is baked, which requires a lot of heat. The boiling process helps give bagels their unique texture and flavor.
6. Pizza
Pizza is a classic favorite that has been enjoyed for centuries. It’s a type of bread that requires very high temperatures to bake properly, so it’s important to make sure you’re using the highest temperature your oven will allow.
For me, that means 500F, but for others it may be lower. No matter what temperature you use, just make sure it’s as high as possible. This can be a bit intimidating at first, but trust me when I say it will make all the difference in the end.
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