TechniqueBeginner

Windowpane Test

Definition

A technique to check if gluten is fully developed. You gently stretch a small piece of dough between your fingers; if it stretches thin enough to let light through without tearing (like a windowpane), the gluten is ready.

Henry's Tips

  • Don't skip this! If the dough tears instantly, keep mixing. If you bake before this stage, your bread will be dense.

Sources

  • King Arthur Baking
  • The Perfect Loaf

Learn more about bread baking with "Sourdough for the Rest of Us" by Henry Hunter

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