What Is the Poke Test?

The poke test involves gently pressing your finger about half an inch into the surface of the proofing dough. The way the dough responds to this poke indicates its proofing stage:​BreadLogicBakeware New Zealand+2The Perfect Loaf+2The Perfect Loaf+2

• Underproofed: If the indentation springs back quickly and completely, the dough needs more time to proof.​King Arthur Baking+9Bakeware New Zealand+9Serious Eats+9

• Properly Proofed: If the indentation springs back slowly and partially, leaving a slight dent, the dough is ready to bake.​The Perfect Loaf+13Bakeware New Zealand+13Hummingbird Acres+13

• Overproofed: If the indentation does not spring back at all and remains, the dough has overproofed.​Serious Eats+3Sourdough Geek+3BreadLogic+3

This method is particularly useful during the final proofing stage, just before baking, to ensure optimal dough development. ​BreadLogic

How to Perform the Poke Test

1. Prepare Your Finger: Lightly flour or oil your finger to prevent sticking.​Serious Eats+9The Daily Meal+9Living Bread Baker+9

2. Gently Poke: Press your finger about ½ inch into the dough's surface.​The Perfect Loaf

3. Observe the Response:

   • Quick spring back: Underproofed.

   • Slow, partial spring back: Properly proofed.

   • No spring back: Overproofed.​Bon Appétit+11The Perfect Loaf+11The Perfect Loaf+11

This tactile test helps in assessing the dough's readiness without relying solely on time or visual cues. ​Bon Appétit+4King Arthur Baking+4Serious Eats+4

Tips for Accurate Assessment

• Consider Dough Temperature: Cold dough, especially after refrigeration, may feel firmer and spring back quickly, potentially misleading the poke test. Allow the dough to come to room temperature for a more accurate assessment. ​The Perfect Loaf

• Account for Hydration Levels: High-hydration doughs may respond differently to the poke test, often showing less spring back even when properly proofed. ​The Perfect Loaf+1BreadLogic+1

• Use in Conjunction with Other Indicators: While the poke test is valuable, combining it with other signs like dough volume increase and surface appearance can provide a more comprehensive assessment. ​BreadLogic+6King Arthur Baking+6Bon Appétit+6

Conclusion

Mastering the poke test enhances your ability to bake sourdough bread with optimal texture and flavor. By understanding and interpreting the dough's response to this simple test, you can make informed decisions about when to proceed with baking, leading to consistently better results.​Bakeware New Zealand+1Living Bread Baker+1