How to Test Dry Active Yeast

The task of testing dry active yeast to ensure that it is viable for bread making is known as "proofing" the yeast. This is important if the package is beyond the expiration date or if the yeast is purchased in bulk and not stored properly in the refrigerator or freezer. Proofing the yeast only takes a few moments and you will be able to tell immediately whether the yeast is still active or alive.

Things You'll Need

• 1/4 cup water
• 1-cup measuring cup
• 1 tsp. sugar
• Spoon
• 1 package active dry yeast

Instructions

1. Measure 1/4 cup of hot tap water into a 1-cup measuring cup.

2. Stir in 1 tsp. sugar. Continue to stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.

3. Stir in one package of active dry yeast.

4. Allow the mixture to sit for up to 10 minutes. If the yeast mixture begins to foam and rises to the 1/2 cup mark in this time, the yeast is proofed and ready to be used in your recipe.

Tips & Warnings

• If using more than a single package of yeast in a recipe, increase the size of the measuring cup to allow the yeast to foam and rise the proper amount.

• Set the yeast to proof while you are assembling the dry ingredients for your recipe. By the time you have combined the dry ingredients, the yeast should be ready to add to the recipe.

References

• Utah State University: Cooking Essentials
• Purdue University 4-H: Yeast Dough
• Kent State University: Is Yeast Alive