The effect of two types of pectins with different degrees of esterification on dough and bread characteristics was analysed. A high methoxyl pectin (HMP) and a low methoxyl pectin (LMP) were assayed in dough without or with salt (2%) at levels ranging from 0.25% to 2.0%. Farinographic water absorption increased when pectins were incorporated in dough with salt, whereas this effect was not observed in dough without salt. Pectin addition diminished the stability of dough in all cases. Texture profile analysis showed that pectins softened the dough, particularly when salt was added. Cohesiveness was also higher in doughs with salt at the maximum level of hydrocolloid addition. In dough with salt, HMP decreased the elastic and viscous moduli, while the values for tan (δ) were increased with respect to control. SEM micrographs showed that dough with pectin has a filamentous structure. In the breadmaking process, dough with HMP showed a better performance, leading to higher specific volumes and softer crumbs both in fresh and stored bread. © 2011 Springer Science + Business Media, LLC.