How to Know When Bread Dough Has Risen Enough

A woman kneading dough. — Baking bread requires skill. Emilija Manevska / Getty Images

Q. How do you know when bread dough has risen enough?

A. Most breads contain yeast, which is what helps the bread rise. Bread bakers will leave the dough to rise for several hours, allowing enough time for the bread's flavor to develop.

A simple way to test if your dough has risen enough is to lightly press two fingertips about one-half inch into the dough.

The dough is ready if an indention remains when fingertips are removed.

Now you know when dough is ready for baking, try these bread recipes:

Introduction to How Bread Works
Bread Recipes
Potato Bread
Bread and Bread Machine Recipes