Perfectly Proofed Homemade Bread, Every Time

A good rise is what makes light, airy homemade bread. Here’s a simple trick that makes proofing bread easy by creating the ideal environment right at home.

1. Warm your oven: Briefly preheat your oven to its lowest setting (around 150 to 200°F, or 65 to 95°C) for just 1 to 2 minutes, then turn it OFF.
   You want it warm, not hot.
   
   
2. Add boiling water: Place an oven-safe bowl or pan filled with 1 to 2 cups of boiling water on the bottom rack of your slightly warmed oven.
   
3. Prepare your dough: Place your dough in a lightly oiled, large bowl. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a clean, damp kitchen towel.
   
4. Proof: Immediately place your covered dough bowl on a middle rack, above the hot water.
   
5. Seal it in: Close the oven door. The residual heat and the steam from the hot water create a warm, humid, draft-free spot that’s perfect for proofing.
   
6. Check for the rise: Let the dough rise until doubled in size. This can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your recipe and yeast.