Do I Need Banneton?

Although it's nice to have a bread-proofing basket, it's not necessary. There are many alternative ways to proof your bread, and if you want the results a proofing basket will give, you can improvise with what you have.

What happens if you don't have a banneton?

If you don't have a proofing basket in the house, you can use wooden, plastic, ceramic, or a metal bowl instead. Since regular bowls are round in shape, these are ideal for proofing rounded loaf. ... Fabric works well because they remove excess moisture and ensure the baked loaf is perfectly shaped.

Do you need a banneton for sourdough?

Ordinarily, I proof my bread in a banneton basket. These light-weight, wicker-esque baskets allow the dough to rise while they create that appetizing coiled pattern on the loaves. If you don't have a banneton basket, line an 8- or 9-inch bowl with a thin dishcloth and dust the fabric with flour.