Proofing is a critical step in bread baking, allowing the dough to rise and develop flavour, texture, and structure. The gentle humidification system incorporated into Ice Cool Systems, known as ‘SoftSteam’, envelops the dough in a gentle mist, creating the best possible conditions for an outstanding taste experience. Below are four reasons why SoftSteam plays such a vital role in the proofing process…
- Moisture Retention – Soft steam helps to retain moisture in the dough, preventing it from drying out during the initial stages of baking. This is particularly important for artisan-style bread with a thick crust. If the dough surface dries out too quickly, it forms a hard skin, hindering further expansion during proofing and baking.
- Controlled Temperature – Steam helps to maintain a slightly higher and more stable temperature in the oven during proofing. A controlled temperature is essential for yeast activation, as it promotes faster fermentation and, consequently, a better dough rise.
- Better Crust Formation – The presence of steam during the initial stages of baking delays crust formation. This gives the dough more time to expand fully, resulting in a better rise and a lighter, airier texture in the final loaf. A good rise is crucial to achieving the desired volume and an appealing crumb structure.
- Enhances Enzyme Activity – Soft steam moisture facilitates the dough’s enzymatic activity. Enzymes break down starches into sugars and proteins into amino acids, contributing to the dough’s flavour development. This enzymatic activity also helps improve the bread’s crust colour and appearance.
SoftSteam is essential to the dough-proofing process as it maintains moisture, controls the temperature, and enhances enzymatic activity, all contributing to a well-risen, flavorful, and beautifully textured loaf of bread.
The natural refrigerants in each individual Ice Cool concept keep ice crystals from forming in the dough, producing both a longer shelf-life and an inviting aroma. SoftSteam also saves energy and prevents excess water from spoiling your proofing environment.
Explore our site for more information about the commercial proofing process and the SoftSteam concept from Ice Cool. And, if we can help with anything else… just ask!
