Yeast

Saccharomyces cerevisiae Leavening Agent, Microorganism

Yeast Leavening Agent, Microorganism

At a Glance

  • Category Leavening Agent, Microorganism

The Forktionary Angle

"The living engine of fermentation and rising."

Definition

A single-celled fungus essential for leavening bread and fermenting alcohol, converting sugars into carbon dioxide and ethanol.

CO2 Production Yeast can produce up to 2.5 times its weight in carbon dioxide under optimal conditions.
Optimal Activation Temp 105-115°F (40-46°C) for active dry yeast.
Storage Tip Store opened yeast packets in the freezer for up to 6 months for best activity.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Yeast are:

Umami Fermented (subtle in bread)

Chef’s Secret

"Proof" your yeast with a pinch of sugar in warm water. If it doesn't bubble and foam within 5-10 minutes, it's likely inactive.

Best Substitutes

Baking Soda + Acid

e.g., buttermilk) (requires recipe adjustment); Sourdough Starter (not , different process
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Check "use by" date. Store in a cool, dry place; refrigerate after opening.

Recipes Using Yeast

Dinner Party Grains Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less

100 Whole Wheat Rolls

These 100% whole wheat rolls are unbelievably fluffy and delicious, perfect for sandwich lovers and bread enthusiasts! This recipe yields 20-25 perfectly plump rolls (depending on size). I made mine 2 inches in diameter, and they baked to a glorious 3 inches. Want more rolls? Simply make smaller dough balls! Get ready to experience the ultimate homemade whole wheat bread experience.

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30 Minutes Or Less Brunch Preparation Rolls Biscuits

30 Minute Dinner Rolls

These incredibly fluffy dinner rolls are ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for accompanying soups, stews, or any weeknight meal. A simple recipe with minimal rise time, these rolls are surprisingly delicious and easy to make, even for beginner bakers. Get ready for soft, pillowy perfection!

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30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Preparation Low Saturated Fat

5 Minute Artisan Bread

Experience the magic of artisan bread without the hours of work! This recipe, adapted from Jeff Hertzberg and Zoe Francois's bestselling book "Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day," lets you enjoy crusty, delicious bread with minimal effort. Make a large batch of dough, store it in the fridge for up to two weeks, and bake fresh loaves whenever you crave them. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend baking adventures. This recipe is a game-changer, loved by many home bakers for its ease and incredible results. Discover the secret to amazing bread – one 5-minute prep session at a time!

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Flat Shapes Low Cholesterol Healthy Kid Friendly

5 Minute Artisan Pizza Dough

Conquer pizza night with this ridiculously easy 5-minute artisan pizza dough recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights or after-school snacks, this recipe delivers incredibly delicious results. Store the dough in your fridge for up to 2 weeks for ultimate convenience. Inspired by the bestselling book "Artisan Pizza and Flatbread in Five Minutes a Day," this recipe simplifies artisan pizza making without sacrificing flavor. Get ready for amazing pizza in minutes!

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Low In Something Low Cholesterol Course Low Fat

90 Minute Bread

This beloved Texas bread recipe is unbelievably versatile! From classic loaves and soft rolls to delightful breadsticks and hearty sandwich buns, this recipe is a kitchen staple. Easily halved or quartered to fit your needs, it's perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Get ready to experience the magic of this quick-rising, delicious bread that's as adaptable as it is tasty!

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Time To Make Course Time To Make Holiday Event

Abm Hot Cross Buns

Enjoy the taste of traditional Hot Cross Buns without the endless hours in the kitchen! This recipe utilizes your Abm (bread maker) to streamline the process, making it perfect for busy bakers. A simple yet elegant glaze elevates these perfectly spiced buns. Get ready for fluffy, aromatic, and incredibly delicious hot cross buns in less time than you think!

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Healthy North American Time To Make Weeknight

Alaska Sourest Dough Starter

Unleash the tangy magic of Alaska with this sourdough starter recipe! Originally shared by 'vicki', this recipe promises a delightfully sour and robust starter perfect for baking incredible sourdough bread. Learn how to cultivate your own Alaskan sourdough culture – a testament to patience and deliciousness.

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Desserts Number Of Servings Hungarian Time To Make

Almas Pite Hungarian Apple Cake

Indulge in the moist, buttery perfection of Almas Pite, a traditional Hungarian apple cake. This recipe features a rich, subtly sweet dough, best prepared the night before for optimal flavor development. The next morning, you'll layer this incredible dough with spiced apples and walnuts, creating a cake that's both comforting and utterly irresistible. Serve warm with a dollop of cream for a truly unforgettable dessert experience!

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Amish Mennonite Weeknight Kid Friendly Main Ingredient

Amish White Bread

This Amish White Bread recipe is a family favorite, passed down from an Amish cookbook. It's incredibly soft, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up every last drop of your favorite beef stew. This classic recipe delivers a superior loaf time and time again – you won't find a better homemade bread recipe! Prepare to be amazed by its irresistible taste and texture.

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Preparation Dietary Time To Make Preparation

Anme's Garlic Knots

Experience pure garlic knot heaven with Anme's irresistible recipe! These soft, fluffy knots are unbelievably flavorful, perfect as a side dish or appetizer. Use your favorite bread dough or follow our easy step-by-step guide for the ultimate homemade garlic knots. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleasing recipe.

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Low In Something Apples Preparation Time To Make

Apple Cinnamon Granola Bread

Warm up your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of this Apple Cinnamon Granola Bread! This easy bread machine recipe, perfected from a nutrition class, yields a delicious 1 1/2 lb loaf, perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack. Serve warm with honey butter for the ultimate treat! Get ready for fluffy, cinnamon-spiced perfection.

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Low Cholesterol Occasion Dietary Preparation

Auntie Anne's Pretzels Copycat

Craving that iconic Auntie Anne's pretzel taste? This copycat recipe lets you make warm, soft, and perfectly salted pretzels at home! Learn the secrets to that signature pretzel flavor and texture with this easy-to-follow guide. Get ready for a delicious baking experience!

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Occasion Preparation Dietary Number Of Servings

Authentic St Louis Gooey Butter Cake

Craving the legendary gooey butter cake from a St. Louis bakery? This recipe recreates the authentic experience, unlike those cake mix versions! We're talking a flaky, yeast-raised dough bottom generously topped with a rich, buttery, and incredibly gooey custard. This recipe is as close as you'll find to the real deal, capturing the taste of a beloved Clayton, MO bakery.

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Flat Shapes Course Weeknight Small Appliance

Awesome Bread Machine Pizza Dough

Create the perfect pizza crust effortlessly with this bread machine recipe! This foolproof method yields a delicious, chewy crust, ready for your favorite toppings. Say goodbye to kneading and hello to amazing homemade pizza!

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Yeast Breads Equipment Course

Awesome Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls

From "The Bread Winners Cookbook," these unbelievably delicious whole wheat dinner rolls are a Thanksgiving staple and perfect for any occasion! This recipe yields a large batch, easily halved for smaller gatherings. The rich, nutty flavor of whole wheat flour creates a satisfying texture and nutritional boost that your family will adore. Get ready for rave reviews – these rolls are guaranteed to disappear fast!

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Dietary Equipment Preparation Main Ingredient

Banana Whole Wheat Bread

Moist and delicious banana whole wheat bread, perfect for toast, sandwiches, or enjoying on its own! This recipe uses simple ingredients and delivers a hearty, wholesome loaf bursting with banana flavor. Try it with your favorite peanut butter or cream cheese for a truly satisfying treat!

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Eggs Dairy 15 Minutes Or Less Presentation Time To Make

Belgian Waffles

Indulge in the fluffy perfection of these authentic Belgian waffles, a recipe straight from the renowned King George IV Inn Bed and Breakfast! These light and crispy waffles are perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion. Prepare to be amazed by their delicate texture and irresistible flavor. Get ready to experience waffle heaven!

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Kid Friendly Low Cholesterol Healthy Course

Plain Bagels

These perfectly chewy homemade plain bagels are a family favorite! Adapted from a bread machine recipe, this hands-on method uses a stand mixer for easy dough making. Kids will devour these, and they freeze beautifully for later enjoyment. Double or triple the recipe to stock your freezer with deliciousness!

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