What is desired dough temperature?
Desired dough temperature is the target temperature of the dough immediately after mixing. Hitting it makes fermentation more predictable because the dough starts from a known point.
Desired dough temperature.
Hit your target dough temperature more consistently. Enter the target, your flour and room temperatures, and how hard your mixer works. We solve for the water temperature to use.
Measurement system
Mixing friction
Sourdough starter
Use water at
28°C
required_water_temp = target × 3 − (flour + ambient) − friction
Friction is the heat your mixer adds: about 0°C by hand, 2 to 5°C for a stand mixer, up to 8°C at high speed.
Looking for ingredient weights? Try the dough calculator.
Useful guides.
Common questions.
What is friction factor?
Friction factor is the heat your mixing method adds to the dough. Hand mixing adds less heat than a stand mixer or spiral mixer, so the water temperature needs to change accordingly.
Can this calculator use Celsius and Fahrenheit?
Yes. Use the unit switch in the calculator to work in the temperature unit you prefer.
Why is my water temperature sometimes very cold?
If your room, flour, or mixer are warm, the calculator may suggest cold water to keep the final dough from starting too hot and fermenting too fast.