I bake lots of bread. For years I have used my microwave oven as the perfect place for allowing my bread to raise. About 15 min prior to proofing my bread I insert a 2-cup glass measuring cup filled with hot water, turn the oven on and boil the water for about 10 min. As soon as I have kneaded my traditional white bread dough I put it in a large greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth and quickly remove the measuring cup and insert the covered bread dough.

The warm, moisture air in the microwave is the perfect environment for proofing my bread dough. Works beautifully every time.

• Reply