What You Need to Know
During proofing, yeast ferments sugars producing CO₂ and ethanol, expanding the dough and developing gluten structure. Baking at 220 °C initiates the Maillard reaction between reducing sugars and amino acids, forming melanoidins that give the crust its golden color and complex flavor. Steam injection in the first 5 min keeps the crust soft, allowing full expansion before setting.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Maillard browning