Several factors can cause bread dough to collapse in the oven. Here are some possible reasons:
Overproofing: Bread dough needs to rise for a specific amount of time, allowing the yeast to ferment and create the desired structure. If the dough is left to rise for too long, it can become overproofed. Overproofed dough loses its structure and becomes weak, leading to collapse during baking. Pay attention to the recommended proofing times and conditions specified in your recipe.
Insufficient gluten development: Gluten is responsible for creating the structure and elasticity in bread dough. If the dough is not adequately kneaded or mixed, the gluten may not develop properly, resulting in a weak structure that cannot support the weight of the bread as it rises. Ensure that you knead the dough sufficiently to develop gluten strands.
Incorrect dough hydration: The hydration level of the dough, which refers to the amount of water relative to flour, plays a crucial role in the bread's structure. If the dough is too dry, it may lack the necessary moisture for proper rise and structure formation. On the other hand, if the dough is too wet or sticky, it may collapse under its weight. Follow the recipe guidelines for dough hydration, and adjust as needed based on the environmental conditions and flour characteristics.
Inadequate shaping: Proper shaping of bread dough is important to create tension on the surface, allowing the bread to hold its shape during baking. If the dough is not shaped well, it may not have the necessary support to rise properly in the oven, leading to collapse. Pay attention to shaping techniques and practice to improve your skills.
Oven temperature and steam: The oven environment is crucial for bread baking. If the oven temperature is too high, the dough may rise too quickly and collapse before it has a chance to set. Additionally, steam in the oven during the initial stages of baking helps the dough rise and develop a crisp crust. Insufficient steam can result in poor oven spring and collapse. Ensure that your oven is preheated properly and consider using steam techniques, such as placing a pan of hot water in the oven or using a spray bottle to create steam.
It's important to note that bread baking is a complex process, and many variables can affect the outcome. Experimenting, practicing, and following established recipes and techniques can help improve your bread-making skills and minimize the chances of dough collapse.