How to Know When Bread Is Done

Professional bakers are able to give a quick tap to a hot loaf and immediately know whether it is done or not (it should emit a hollow sound). The rest of us may judge by how much the bread has risen or by the color of the loaf, but both of these methods can be deceiving. An easy and accurate method is to insert an instant-read thermometer through the bottom of the loaf into its center; it should register 205°F when it is done.