Your Friends at Superbaking • June 23, 2025
Sourdough Shaping Techniques: Perfecting Loaf Form and Structure
When it comes to sourdough baking, shaping your dough can be the difference between a flat, dense loaf and one that rises beautifully with an open crumb. But shaping sourdough isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about structure, texture, and flavor. Getting the right shape locks in the air pockets and gluten structure needed for an even rise. Wondering how to master sourdough shaping techniques? We’ve got you covered with step-by-step tips to help you perfect your loaf form and structure. Plus, tools like a banneton bread basket can make all the difference in maintaining shape and structure during the proofing process.
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1:
After the first fermentation (bulk fermentation), you’ll want to pre-shape your dough. Start by gently turning the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. The key here is to handle the dough delicately, preserving the air bubbles that have formed. Lightly fold the dough over itself a few times to create tension on the surface.
Tip: Avoid using too much flour as it can prevent the dough from sealing correctly, which could impact the rise.
Step 2:
After pre-shaping, allow your dough to rest for 15-30 minutes. This is known as the bench rest. The dough will spread slightly during this time, but it will relax, making the final shaping much easier.
Step 3:
Once the dough has rested, it's time to shape it into its final form. There are two main shapes: round (boule) and oval (batard).
For a boule: Gently pull the dough toward you while rotating it to tighten the surface. Cup your hands around the dough and create tension by lightly dragging it against the countertop.
For a batard: Stretch the dough into a rectangular shape. Fold the bottom third of the dough up to the center, then fold the top down, similar to folding a letter. Roll the dough into an oval shape, ensuring the seams are tightly sealed.
Step 4:
After shaping, your dough needs to proof. This is where a banneton basket kit comes into play. By placing your shaped dough into a banneton bread basket (seam side up for a boule, seam side down for a batard), you help maintain the loaf’s shape while allowing it to rise evenly. The structured walls of a bread-proofing basket provide the dough with the support it needs, resulting in a well-formed loaf with beautiful structure.
Step 5:
Once proofed, carefully tip the dough onto a parchment-lined baking surface. Use a scoring knife to make quick, confident slashes in the dough. These slashes will control the expansion of the loaf as it bakes, ensuring a nice, even rise. Then, bake your loaf in a preheated oven for the perfect crust and crumb.
