The Complete Sourdough Bread Guide
Chapter 22

STEP 12 — Bake Uncovered

STEP 12 — Bake Uncovered

  1. Carefully remove the lid. (Tilt it away from you — escaping steam is hot.)
  2. Optional but recommended: drop the temp to 450°F (230°C) for the second stage. (Nick's video stays at 500°F — both work; lower temp gives more crust development time without burning.)
  3. Bake uncovered 20–30 minutes more, until:
    • The crust is deep mahogany brown (not pale tan)
    • The loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom
    • Internal temperature reaches 208°F (98°C) — the most reliable indicator. Use an instant-read thermometer.