What You’ll Learn
- Why scoring matters.
- How deep to cut.
- What angle creates an ear.
- Why cold dough is easier to score.
- How fermentation affects scoring.
Quick Answer
Score sourdough immediately before baking with a very sharp blade. For a main expansion score, cut roughly 0.5–1cm deep at an angle if you want an ear. Decorative cuts should be much shallower.
This lesson is part of our Baking Bread section: “From mixing your dough to slicing your first loaf.”
Why Score Bread?
The cut gives expanding gases a controlled route during oven spring.
What Tool to Use
A bread lame or sharp razor gives a cleaner cut than most kitchen knives.
How Deep?
A main score is usually around 0.5–1cm deep.
What Angle?
A shallow angle can encourage an ear, while a vertical cut opens more symmetrically.
Decorative Scoring
Use shallow cuts so they do not compete with the main expansion score.
Why Scores Sometimes Fail
Overproofed, underproofed or weak dough can score poorly regardless of technique.
From Our Workshop
Beautiful scoring comes after good fermentation. A lame cannot rescue a loaf with weak structure.
Bake Slower Tip
Score confidently in one clean movement rather than repeatedly sawing at the dough.
Common Mistake
Do not make decorative cuts as deep as the main score.
Today You Learned
- Scoring controls expansion.
- Use a very sharp blade.
- Main scores are deeper than decorative cuts.
- Angle changes how the loaf opens.
- Fermentation quality matters more than artistry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should I score?
Around 0.5–1cm for the main score.
Do I need a lame?
No, but it is easier and safer than handling a bare blade.
Why did my loaf burst elsewhere?
The score may have been too shallow or the loaf underproofed.
Can I score warm dough?
Yes, though cold dough is firmer.
How do I get an ear?
Good dough strength, fermentation and an angled score all help.
Tools Mentioned in This Guide
These products are directly related to the baking stage covered in this lesson.
Build a Better Baking Setup
A sharp, safe scoring tool is one of the few specialist pieces of equipment that makes a clear difference.
Continue Learning
Next lesson: Dutch Oven Baking
Use this in your next bake
Use the clock as a reference, not the finish line. Dough temperature, flour and starter strength can move the schedule significantly. Note what the dough looks and feels like at each stage so the next bake becomes easier to judge.