Pizza Dough Boxes & Proofing Pans
The final rest and rise period for dough, called proofing, is crucial to getting the best results from baked goods that use yeast. A proofing box or proofing pan provides protection and proper conditions for this step. More
Dough Proofing Boxes: What You Need to Know
Proofing is the final bit of preparation dough must go through before you start to actually bake it. Also known as letting dough rise, proofing is an essential but often-neglected step in the baking process, and doing it correctly can set your baked goods apart from the competition. Our dough pans provide a perfect place for your dough to rest so yeast can develop before you put it in the oven.
There are three main factors in proofing:
- Time
- Temperature
- Humidity
Proofing boxes are made to withstand the variances that occur when bakers pursue the perfect proof. Dough proofing boxes are often paired with lids so the operator can control the exact level of moisture in the proofing area, but they also prevent potential contaminants and debris from coming into contact with your dough. Proofing boxes must withstand the heat and moisture of proofing over the long term; restaurant equipment that doesn't last isn't worth buying. We'll answer common questions about dough proofing boxes below to help you choose the best piece for your needs.
Common Questions About Proofing Boxes
What is a pizza dough pan?
Pizza establishments use pizza dough boxes to store, proof, and transport pizza dough while protecting it from crusting or otherwise degrading. To fulfill this purpose, pizza dough boxes have to be durable and resistant to heat and corrosion so the buyer gets their money's worth. These dough boxes also need to be easy to clean; dough can be messy, and bacteria will grow on any remnants, potentially contaminating the final product. Pizza dough pans are frequently paired with lids to control the humidity in the compartment while also protecting it from pests.
What are pizza dough pans made of?
The majority of dough proofing boxes are made of durable, easy-to-clean plastic. As they won't be put under the extreme heat of an oven, plastic pans can do the job just as well as metal ones for a lower price point. Proofing cabinets and drawers typically hold dough between 70 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit to facilitate the growth of yeast, and plastic withstands these temperatures without any problems. Plastic doesn't require any special considerations when cleaning, either; a commercial dishwasher or three-compartment sink will sanitize your proofing boxes without issue, provided you select options that are dishwasher safe. Consult the product specifications page for the individual piece you're considering to determine if it'll be safe to clean in a commercial dishwasher.
Do I need a lid for my proofing box?
Lids provide two main benefits for proofing dough: First, they protect it from contamination while it rises; second, they help maintain an appropriate humidity for the dough to proof. Yeast prefers moderately warm temperatures and high humidity, which proofing cabinets provide. Lids for proofing boxes can help contain moisture, keeping the dough from crusting and prompting the yeast to grow better.