Sourdough Baker Bootcamp

Core menu item #1 is just the simple classic: flour, water, salt, and starter. Learn our base formula for country sourdough.

The stretch and fold technique is a fundamental method used in bread making, particularly valuable for developing gluten strength in your dough without excessive kneading. This method involves gently stretching the dough and folding it back over itself, usually several times at intervals during the initial fermentation phase.

Learn how to shape a classic country sourdough loaf. This technique is critical for developing the proper crumb structure and ensuring you’re able to deliver consistent products each and every bake.

By mastering the skill of judging the right time to bake your sourdough, you ensure each loaf maximizes its potential in flavor, texture, and appearance, making your baking more enjoyable and successful.

Learning to manage a sourdough starter is crucial for successful sourdough baking. A healthy starter ensures proper dough rise, develops rich flavors, and allows for consistent results. It provides a cost-effective and always-available leavening agent, enhancing both the creativity and enjoyment of your baking. Managing your starter well ensures it can last for years, supporting a wide range of sourdough recipes.

Learn how to the sourdough formula and techniques from start to finish without using any refrigeration.

In this module, we explore the fascinating intersection of art and science through the storied history of sourdough bread. From ancient civilizations to modern culinary practices, sourdough has been a significant part of culture and cuisine for centuries. We will examine the science behind the fermentation process, the artistry involved in baking, and uncover intriguing historical insights.

In this module, we explore the dynamic world of the business of baking. Baking is not only an art form but also a thriving industry. We'll discuss key topics such as market trends, business strategies, and bakery entrepreneurs' challenges and opportunities. Join us as we share insights from our experience, learn about successful business models, and explore what it takes to succeed in the competitive baking industry.

In this module, we focus on mastering effective bakery sales tactics. You'll learn proven strategies for attracting customers, enhancing customer experience, and boosting sales in your bakery. We'll cover topics such as upselling, product placement, customer relationship management, and crafting compelling sales pitches. Join us as we share practical techniques to help you achieve success in the competitive bakery market.

Amanda and Jon reveal the complex journey of starting a bakery from home and the impact it had on their personal lives. Merging business choices with personal life presented formidable challenges, often leading to tough discussions. While Proof Bread has flourished over the years, the behind-the-scenes personal struggles were tougher than many might realize. Success isn’t just about happiness and prosperity; it often comes with sacrifices and costs that not everyone may be prepared to handle.

Logan and Jon dive into the inner workings of employee operations at Proof Bread, shedding light on the realities of being part of a sourdough bakery team. They discuss the demands and dynamics of working extended shifts, operating within a home-based environment, and the challenges of problem-solving and adapting to constant change. The conversation also explores career progression within the bakery and the key elements that constitute a successful relationship between a boss and an employee.

Sat Karam and Jon engage in a fascinating conversation about the differences and similarities between German and US bakeries. Germany is renowned for its deep-rooted artisan institutions dedicated to bread baking, an understanding the US has lost to factory production. At Proof Bread, we're driven to spark a deeper appreciation for the craft and to provide rich education on the complexities of sourdough.