Proofing basket: how to use one, step by step

October 31, 2026

Homemade bread and a Vokshus bread bag on the worktop

A proofing basket gives bread a round shape and that lovely ring pattern in the flour on the crust. It is easy to use, and the main job is to flour the basket well.

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Short answer: Sprinkle flour in the basket, add the dough smooth side down and let it rise. Gently turn it out onto baking paper, score it and bake. The ribs in the basket make the ring pattern.

How to use the proofing basket

Sprinkle plenty of flour in the basket, and rub it well in between the ribs.
Shape the dough into a round ball with a taut surface.
Put the dough in the basket smooth side down.
Cover it, and let the dough rise until it has grown well.
Gently turn the basket over onto a sheet of baking paper.
Score the top with a sharp knife, and bake straight away.

Five tips that help

The flour: Rye flour and rice flour release most easily. Ordinary wheat flour can stick.
Cover it: Use a bag or a damp cloth, so the dough does not get a dry skin.
Cold proofing: Many bakers let the dough rise in the basket in the fridge overnight. That also makes it easier to score.
Liner: Our basket comes without a liner. Without a liner you get the ring pattern.
The size: The basket measures about 20 × 8 cm. Only fill it so far that the dough has room to grow.

After use

Tap out the flour, brush the basket clean, and let it dry completely before you put it away.

Once the bread is baked

Let the bread cool completely before you slice it. Put it in the bread bag and put it in the fridge. You will find a recipe in rustic sourdough bread.

Round bread proofing basket379 NOK

Spiral ribs give the classic ring pattern in the flour on the crust. About 20 × 8 cm, comes without a liner.

See the proofing basket →

Bake & Keep519 NOK

A proofing basket and a Bivoks™ bread bag in one set, from dough to finished loaf.

See Bake & Keep →

Frequently asked questions

Why does the dough stick to the basket?

Too little flour, or too wet a dough. Rub in more flour before the next bake, ideally rye or rice flour.

Do I need a liner in the proofing basket?

No. For the ring pattern, the dough should lie directly against the basket.

Can yeast dough rise in a proofing basket?

Yes. The basket suits both yeast dough and sourdough.

Does the proofing basket need washing?

No, usually it is enough to tap out the flour and brush it clean. Always let it dry completely.

Giving it as a gift? See baking gifts for Christmas.

From dough to fresh bread

Bake & Keep is a proofing basket and a Bivoks™ bread bag in one set.