Things You'll Need:
- Yeast
- Thermometer
- Warm water
- Sugar or honey
- Large bowl
- Flour
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Step 1
Use active dry yeast in most bread recipes. One package, or 2 1/4 teaspoons is appropriate for most recipes. Put a cup of hot water (105 - 115 degrees Fahrenheit) in a large bowl. Sprinkle the yeast on top. Wait for it to foam (about 5 minutes). Follow bread recipe. Keep the active dry yeast stored away from air and moisture.
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Step 2
Use baker's yeast for breads, coffee cakes and pastries like croissants and brioche. One package, equal to one tablespoon of yeast, is appropriate for most recipes. Fill a bowl with a cup of warm water (105-115 degrees Fahrenheit). Mix in a little sugar and then the yeast. Wait for it to foam (about 10 minutes). Follow the recipe.
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Step 3
Use bread machine yeast for bread machine or single-rise bread recipes. Add this yeast right in to the flour and other dry ingredients. Store bread machine yeast at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
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Step 4
Use fresh yeast if you are a commercial baker or regularly bake your own bread. Soften the cake in liquid that is 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit before using. Store in the refrigerator and use within 2 weeks. Store in the freezer and use within 4 months, defrosting the cake for 1 day in the refrigerator before using.
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Step 5
Use instant yeast for single rise bread recipes and quick results. Add instant yeast directly to the flour and other dry ingredients. Store instant yeast at room temperature or in the refrigerator for extended use.
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Step 6
Use yeast to make starter, or a sponge for breads like sourdough. Mix one package of active dry yeast with two cups of warm water. Wait for 10 minutes, then add two cups of flour. Stir, and cover loosely with plastic wrap and let the mixture sit at about 85°. Wait until it's established, then move it into the refrigerator in an airtight container. Once a week, bring it to room temperature and remove 75% of it (use for bread or throw away). Add equal parts warm water and flour to replace what was taken, stir, then return it to the refrigerator. Throw it away if it becomes discolored or emits an unpleasant odor.
