Abstract: A preferred method of the present invention includes the steps of: (1) providing a mass of dough; (2) providing a length of dough delivery conduit; (3) detaching a first portion of dough from the mass of dough; (4) delivering the first portion of dough into the dough delivery conduit; (5) detaching a second portion of dough from the mass of dough; (6) delivering the second portion of dough into the dough delivery conduit to form a stream of dough within the dough delivery conduit; (7) passing the stream of dough toward a dough piercing sharp for dividing the stream of dough, and; (8) forming the stream of dough into a plurality of dough pieces. Preferably, the step of delivering the portions of dough comprises utilizing a piston.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment of the oil filled rounder bar with grooves for use with an endless belt-type conveyor for transporting dough pieces thereon incorporates a shaping surface formed of oil filled plastic material. The shaping surface forms a pocket with the belt of the conveyor and receives and shapes dough pieces transported along the belt of the conveyor. Preferably, an array of grooves are formed in the shaping surface to promote frictional engagement of the dough pieces with the shaping surface. Method aspects also are provided.