Definition: Scoring refers to shallow cuts made on unbaked dough. Scoring is used to control where bread dough will split, as well as to release steam from filled pastries. It can also be decorative.
When Itβs Used: In bread making and in some filled pastries, like double-crust pies or hand pies.
Tips for Scoring: When scoring bread dough or pastries, a very sharp knife, a serrated knife, or a specialty tool called a bread lame works best. This will allow you to cut the dough in clean lines and not tear it.