I'm baking bread for the first time today using the instructions in the Martha Stewart magazine (not using a bread maker). I hope it turns out well (I'm making ciabatta).

I have a question for any bakers out there: each step has a specific amount of time to let the dough rise. For example, the starter should rise for 12 to 15 hours. Then another step requires 20 minutes, etc. Would it be okay to leave the dough for longer than required at any step?

Any other bread baking advice would be greatly appreciated!

Happy bread baking!  :)  Hope your bread came out well.

When I make bread I don't always follow the times listed in the recipe.  Depending on the room temperature/environmental temp the dough may rise sluggishly or fast.  For me the times listed in recipes are a guide only.  I've let the dough sit for longer than the recipe required and the bread (or whatever baked goods I was making) came out just fine.

letting it sit for a little longer is fine, but if you let it rise too much it will eventually fall.

Thanks for the helpful comments!  I didn't realize it could fall if left for too long, so that is very helpful.

I followed the recipe exactly the first time and my ciabatta came out great! I'm making ciabatta again and also making rosemary bread from the recipe on Martha Stewart's website. I'll probably be a little less careful about the times now that I know it can go for longer.