Intermediate proof provides a recovery period so that the dough can become more flexible and pliable. After proving, the dough piece is usually larger in volume, the skin is firmer and the dough stretches easily.
Usually 5 - 15 minutes is needed to allow the dough to relax enough for final moulding. However intermediate proof time will vary for different types of dough.
Temperature affects yeast activity and other reactions taking place in the dough.
Variation in yeast activity will change the amount of gas produced and the maturity of the dough pieces, affecting the final quality of the bread.
It is vital to maintain an even temperature and humidity throughout the intermediate proof stage. Failure to do so will result in uneven proof and faults in the finished product. All methods of intermediate proof have one thing in common, the product is always protected from the immediate atmosphere