Assessing When the Bread Is Done

Fifteen minutes before the lowest suggested baking time is up, put on an oven mitt. Open the oven door, rotate each loaf 180 degrees, and evaluate the loaves for color. While they should require more baking time, it is possible that they will be fully baked. Judge whether the loaves are baked based on their color and how they feel in your hand. A loaf that is fully baked will make a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom with your finger. Note that a loaf that is overbaked will also sound hollow when tapped with your finger. In general, we recommend developing a deep, rich, caramel-brown crust on the loaves.