What You Need to Know
Baking relies on starch gelatinization (60–70 °C) and gluten protein denaturation (70–80 °C) to build structure, while Maillard reactions at higher temperatures produce browning and flavor. Acetic acid from sourdough is negligible during baking, and regional variations modulate key variables to achieve desired textures.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Maillard browning and gluten network formation