How can bakers achieve a shiny crust on bread?

Applying an egg wash or steam during the baking process is a well-established technique to achieve a shiny crust on bread. An egg wash, which consists of beaten eggs (sometimes mixed with water or milk), is brushed onto the surface of the dough before baking. As the bread bakes, the egg proteins and fats help create a glossy finish. Similarly, introducing steam into the oven during the initial baking phase allows for better crust development, as it keeps the surface of the bread moist for longer, allowing it to expand fully before it sets, while also promoting a shiny exterior.

The other methods listed may contribute to other aspects of bread quality, such as texture or color, but do not directly impact the shininess of the crust. A higher baking temperature can create a crispy crust but may not necessarily enhance its shine. Adding sugar can improve browning due to caramelization but does not directly correlate to achieving a shiny surface. Using a darker baking pan can affect the overall baking time and may lead to a deeper color crust, but it does not produce that characteristic glossy sheen associated with an egg wash or steam.