Jerry, thanks so much for the update on Heathcliff and the gang! As you know, I was a little worried about my loaves cracking too. You might try adding a tiny bit more water if you can stand the stickiness (say a tablespoon more water), and make sure the time the loaf is exposed to steam during baking is only 10 minutes. The other thing that might help is mixing the dough at a lower speed for a longer time. Let’s say speed 1 for 3 minutes to mix the ingredients, and then speed 1 1/2 for 4 minutes on a KitchenAid mixer. I find speed 2 on the KitchenAid a little too aggressive for kneading this dough. Let me know if you solve the crack dilemma, but I’m glad you can still enjoy the flavor and don’t fret too much about the cracking! Barb

• Reply