Everything You Need To Know For Fluffy, Bakery-Quality Outcomes At Home
Whether you're a bread aficionado who bakes or a pizza master who enjoys making his or her own pies at home, there's a strong likelihood that you've utilized active dry yeast. But just what is active dry yeast, how do you utilize it correctly, and why is it such a staple in the world of baking?
In this blog, we'll cover all you need to know about active dry yeast, how it can help in your kitchen, and precisely how to use active dry yeast to get light, fluffy, and tasting bakes - every time.
What Is Active Dry Yeast?
Active dry yeast is a form of sleeping yeast that must be awakened in hot water prior to mixing it with your dough. It exists in the form of coarse granules and is widely utilized in home baking because it has a longer shelf life and can be easily stored.
Unlike instant yeast, which can be directly added to dry ingredients, active dry yeast requires a quick activation step. This step, more specifically referred to as "proofing," verifies that the yeast is indeed alive and working, fermenting sugars into carbon dioxide and providing that ideal rise to your dough.
Urban Platter's Baker's Active Dry Yeast is a premium option for home bakers, with instant activation, even proofing, and reliable results- whether you're baking bread, producing puffy naans, or creating pizza crusts.
Why Use Active Dry Yeast?
Here's why active dry yeast is a go-to among bakers of every skill level:
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Trusted Rising Power: Produces excellent lift to your dough for soft, fluffy bakes.
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Long Shelf Life: Urban Platter's Active Dry Yeast can stay active for up to 18 months if kept in a dry, cool place.
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Fun To Use: Ideal for bread, buns, pizzas, and even some fermented treats like cinnamon rolls.
- Controlled Activation: Since you tested it yourself, you know that your yeast is fresh and ready to go.
How To Use Active Dry Yeast (Step-by-Step)
It is easy to use active dry yeast once you are aware of some easy steps. Here's the procedure for activating it and using it in your recipes:
Step 1: Measure the Yeast
There should generally be how much yeast you need listed in the recipe. Most often, it is a single packet (which weighs around 7g), but Urban Platter sells it in jars so you can use the exact amount you need.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
In a measuring cup or small bowl:
- Add 1 tsp of sugar to half a cup of warm (40°C to 45°C) water and dissolve the sugar.
- Add 21/4 tsp of Active Dry Yeast to the mixture and stir until there are no lumps of yeast and keep aside for 15-20 mins.
- After 15-20 mins. there is a foam formation which should be double in volume, then your yeast is ready for use.
Simply Good Food!
You should see the mixture become frothy—this indicates the yeast is active and ready to use.
Step 3: Mix Into Your Dough
After it's been activated, incorporate the foamy yeast mixture into your flour or dough mixture as indicated in your recipe. After this, proceed with kneading, proofing, and baking as normal.
Tips for Best Results
Don't use hot water! Water above 45°C will kill the yeast. Use warm water (similar to bath water).
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Foam check: If your yeast will not foam within 10 minutes, it may be dead. Discard and repeat.
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Store smart: Keep your yeast in an airtight container in a dry, cool place—or in the fridge for extended shelf life.
- Feed the yeast: A small amount of sugar helps to jumpstart activation, but is not required depending on your recipe.
Common Questions About Active Dry Yeast
Can I just use active dry yeast directly from the pack without proofing?
Technically so, but proofing is recommended to ensure your yeast is still active, especially if it has been stored for a long period.
How long is Urban Platter's Active Dry Yeast usable?
Our active dry yeast has a staggering shelf life of 18 months. Just reseal the pack tightly and store in a dry environment.
May I use active dry yeast in gluten-free recipes?
Aye! Active dry yeast itself is gluten-free. Just make sure that all your other ingredients are too.
Get Baking With Confidence
Whether you're a weekend baker or a sourdough baker, having active dry yeast spot-on is the secret to making amazing, bakery-perfect bakes in your own kitchen. Urban Platter's Baker's Active Dry Yeast is your kitchen go-to- quick to activate, reliable to rise, and easy to store.
Order your jar today from Urban Platter and take the challenge with every bake!
