Should gloves be worn when mixing dough?

In general, it is not recommended to wear gloves when mixing dough. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Loss of Dexterity: Wearing gloves can limit the dexterity of your hands, making it more difficult to feel and control the dough. This can affect the overall quality and texture of the baked goods.

2. Hygiene Concerns: Gloves can create a barrier between your hands and the dough, potentially leading to a false sense of cleanliness. Without proper washing and sanitization, gloves themselves can harbor bacteria and contaminate the dough.

3. Dough consistency: Mixing dough by hand allows you to sense its consistency and adjust techniques as needed. For instance, if the dough is too dry or sticky, you can make immediate adjustments to achieve the right texture. Wearing gloves may hinder your ability to detect subtle changes in the dough feel.

4. Temperature Control: When mixing dough, it is crucial to maintain the proper temperature for the ingredients. Gloves can act as an insulating layer, affecting the temperature of your hands and potentially influencing the dough's final texture and rise.

5. Gluten Development: Some dough recipes rely on the development of gluten through kneading. Wearing gloves may interfere with this process as the friction between bare hands and dough helps create the desired gluten structure.

However, there might be specific circumstances where wearing gloves may be beneficial, such as when handling certain types of dough, like those that may contain harsh ingredients or might be hot or sticky. If you choose to wear gloves, ensure that they are clean, fit well, and do not affect your ability to effectively mix the dough. It's also recommended to wash your hands before and after handling the dough, regardless of whether you wear gloves or not.