What is the minimum amount of time for tempering bread?

Tempering bread refers to the process of allowing it to rest or acclimate to room temperature in order to enhance its texture and ensure even baking. The minimum time specified for this process is typically around 30 seconds. This duration allows the inner temperature of the bread to stabilize, which can prevent issues such as uneven baking or crust formation.

During this brief tempering period, the bread achieves better hydration and adjusts to the ambient temperature. This step is critical for achieving optimal results when the bread is further manipulated or baked. Shorter periods, such as 10 or 20 seconds, do not provide sufficient time for the bread to undergo these changes effectively, leading to subpar results. A full minute may be beneficial in certain contexts, but 30 seconds is marked as the minimum required for successful tempering.