Why does my yeast dough only rise in the oven but it won't rise on the counter?

[Crystal27]

When it's warm I let it rise on the counter but it doesn't do anything,but when I put it in the oven it started rising.i also put a pan of boiling water to help it.

 

[retired baker]

the counter is too cold. Proof boxes are designed to be warm and humid.
A pan of boiling water in an oven is close enough.

 

[Mona]

It sounds like your dough isn't rising on the counter because it might be too cold for the yeast to activate. When you put it in the oven with the boiling water, it creates a warm, humid environment that helps the yeast do its job. To get it to rise on the counter, try placing the dough in a warmer spot or even a slightly warmed oven. Also, make sure your yeast is fresh. That should help your dough rise better before baking.