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- What are the most common mistakes to avoid when baking bread

Sure! Here are six common mistakes to avoid when baking bread:

**Not measuring ingredients accurately**: Baking is a science, so eyeballing your flour or water can lead to disaster. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy!

**Skipping the proofing stage**: Rushing through the fermentation process can result in dense bread. Give your dough enough time to rise and develop flavor.

**Using the wrong temperature**: If your oven isn’t preheated properly, your bread might not bake evenly. Always preheat your oven and check the temperature with an oven thermometer if you can.

**Not kneading enough (or too much)**: Kneading is essential for developing gluten, but over-kneading can make your bread tough. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough without going overboard.

**Ignoring the dough’s texture**: Every dough is different! Pay attention to how it feels. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour; if it’s too dry, add a splash of water.