What is the difference between slack and sticky dough?

Sticky dough clings to your hands but may still have structure. Slack dough flows and spreads like pancake batter—it has lost its ability to hold together.

Can I add flour to fix slack dough?

You can add small amounts during shaping, but this changes your recipe. Refrigeration is usually a better first option as it preserves the recipe.

Is slack dough the same as over-proofed?

They often go together. Over-proofing breaks down gluten, causing slackness. But dough can also be slack from high hydration without being over-proofed.

Too Slack

Shaping

Slack dough feels like it has no structure—it flows and spreads rather than holding together. This makes shaping nearly impossible without adjustments. Understanding the cause helps you decide on the best fix.

Try This Right Now

1Place the dough in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes to firm up
2Add a small amount of flour (1-2 tablespoons) during final folds
3Use a heavily floured surface for shaping

Detailed Solutions

Refrigerator Rescue

Easy

Cold temperatures firm up slack dough.

Cover dough and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes
Check firmness—it should hold shape when lifted
Shape quickly while still cold
Return to fridge for final proof

Pan Baking

Easy

Use a pan to support very slack dough.

Oil a loaf pan or cast iron pan
Gently transfer dough to pan
The pan provides structure during baking
Results in a different but delicious loaf

Why This Happens

Slack dough results from too much water, over-fermentation that has broken down gluten, or weak gluten development. Contributing factors include: Hydration too high for flour or skill level, Over-fermented dough, Under-developed gluten, Warm dough that has relaxed too much, Using low-protein flour at high hydration.

Prevention for Next Time

Start with lower hydration (65-70%) and increase as skills improve
Use bread flour with 12-14% protein for high-hydration doughs
Do not over-ferment—shape before dough becomes too airy
Keep dough cool by refrigerating between handling

Related Issues

Having other problems? Check out these related troubleshooting guides.

Sticky Dough Dough Won't Hold Shape Weak Gluten Over-Fermented