If the dough is rising but not baking in a bread maker, there could be a few possible reasons:
Malfunctioning Heating Element: The heating element in the bread maker may not be functioning properly, which means that it is not generating enough heat to bake the dough. This can result in the dough rising but remaining uncooked.
Incorrect Baking Cycle Selection: Bread makers typically offer different baking cycles or settings for different types of bread. If you have selected the wrong cycle or setting, it may not provide enough time or heat for proper baking. Make sure you are using the correct setting for the type of bread you are making.
Overproofed Dough: If the dough has risen excessively during the rising stage, it may lose its structure and become too delicate. In this case, when the baking cycle starts, the dough may collapse, preventing proper baking. It's important to follow the recommended rising times for the specific bread recipe you are using.
Insufficient Kneading: Proper kneading is essential to develop gluten in the dough, which gives it structure and elasticity. Insufficient kneading can result in a dense or underbaked loaf. Ensure that the bread maker's kneading cycle is functioning correctly and that you are allowing sufficient time for proper kneading.
Dough Ingredients and Ratios: The ingredients and ratios used in the dough can affect the baking process. If the recipe includes too much liquid or not enough flour, it may result in a dough that is too wet and doesn't bake properly. Similarly, using expired or low-quality yeast can affect the rising and baking process.
If you are experiencing consistent issues with your bread maker, it may be helpful to consult the user manual for troubleshooting tips specific to your machine. Additionally, experimenting with different recipes and adjusting ingredient ratios can also help achieve better baking results.