Red Seal Baker Practice Exam

How can you tell when bread has finished baking?

1. By the color of the crust

2. When a toothpick comes out clean

3. When it sounds hollow when tapped and has the right internal temperature

4. When it rises above the pan

The correct answer is: When it sounds hollow when tapped and has the right internal temperature

Determining when bread has finished baking is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor. A reliable method is to check for a hollow sound when the bread is tapped and to ensure it has reached the correct internal temperature, typically around 190°F to 210°F (88°C to 99°C), depending on the type of bread. When bread is baked, it undergoes several physical and chemical changes. The crust develops as moisture evaporates, and the structure inside has set. Tapping the bottom of the loaf should produce a hollow sound if it is fully baked. This indicates that there is a good amount of air within the bread's structure, which means it has properly expanded and formed a stable crumb. Additionally, checking the internal temperature is a scientific and precise way to confirm doneness, as each type of bread has its own ideal baking temperature that ensures the starch gelatinization and protein coagulation are complete. While other methods like color of the crust and the toothpick test can be helpful, they may not be reliable indicators on their own. The color can vary based on the type of bread or oven settings, and a toothpick test is more commonly used for cakes or other baked goods. Similarly, a loaf rising above the pan does not