Dough balls merge together during fermentation

Ask yourself

• How much space was left between dough balls in their container?
• Did the dough continue rising more than expected?

Likely causes

1. #1

   Insufficient spacing in the proofing container

   Strongly supported

   Dough balls expand significantly during fermentation and will merge if placed too close together.

2. #2

   Fermentation running longer or warmer than planned

   Generally accepted

   Extra rise from an unexpectedly warm environment increases how much the balls expand.

Rescue it now

Gently separate merged balls with a floured bench scraper and reball if they haven't overproofed

Prevent it next time

Space dough balls generously, or use individual proofing containers/trays with dividers

Related

Related problems at this stage