Leavening Agent, Microorganism |

Yeast

Saccharomyces cerevisiae Allergen-Free
yeast

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.

Technical Metrics

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.

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.

Buying Guide

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

Flavor Pairings

Flour water sugar salt (for bread); hops malt (for beer).

Recipes Using Yeast

Healthy 2 Healthy Course Low Cholesterol

100 Whole Wheat Bread Low Fat And Good

This recipe yields 3 hearty loaves of incredibly flavorful, 100% whole wheat bread! What makes this recipe so special? It's unbelievably simple, uses minimal ingredients, and delivers consistently fantastic results every time. Perfect for beginner bakers! This recipe is my own twist on a family favorite, enhanced with oats for extra heartiness (ideal with a comforting soup) and ground flaxseed for a boost of omega-3s and fiber. The result? A bread that's wonderfully soft, not dense, perfect for sandwiches, toast, and freezes beautifully. Prepare to be amazed!

See Complete Recipe
Gifts Vegetarian Comfort Food Oranges

2Bleu's Pecan Danish

Indulge in this incredibly easy 2-Bleu cheese and pecan Danish recipe! This delectable treat can be baked as individual rolls or a stunning ring. For a super-speedy version, we're using crescent roll dough for a melt-in-your-mouth pastry that requires NO rising time! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible treat. Get ready for a flavor explosion of creamy blue cheese and crunchy pecans!

See Complete Recipe
Course Breads Low Saturated Fat Low In Something

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!

See Complete Recipe
30 Minutes Or Less Dietary Low Sodium Equipment

55 Minute Dinner Rolls

Whip up these fluffy, delicious dinner rolls in just 55 minutes! Perfect for any meal, this recipe is adapted from the "Carbohydrate Counting Made Easy" cookbook, endorsed by the Knoxville Area Community Hospital's Diabetes Support Group. Each roll boasts only 134 calories, 4g protein, 2g fat, and 26g carbs, making it a guilt-free treat for everyone. Inspired by our experience at Camp Hertko Hollow in Boone, Iowa (515-276-2237), a fantastic diabetes camp providing kids with a supportive and inclusive environment. Learn more and register your child: http://www.diabetes.org/communityprograms-and-localevents/diabetescamps/ia-hollow.jsp

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Grains Rolls Biscuits Taste Mood

90 Minute Rolls

Ready in just 90 minutes! These incredibly soft and fluffy dinner rolls are a family favorite, passed down through generations. Get ready to impress with this easy-to-follow recipe for perfectly golden-brown rolls, warm from the oven.

See Complete Recipe
Healthy 2 Main Dish Equipment Easy

Abm Perfect Pizza Dough

Conquer pizza night with our foolproof, easy-to-make pizza dough recipe! Perfect for both delicious pizzas and savory calzones, this recipe is so simple, you'll be rolling out dough like a pro. Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick and easy weeknight meal anytime the pizza craving strikes!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Preparation Cuisine Main Ingredient

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!

See Complete Recipe
Holiday Event Heirloom Historical Breads Pasta Rice And Grains

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.

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Time To Make Occasion Coffee Cakes

Armenian Easter Bread

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of authentic Armenian Choreg, a sweet Easter bread brimming with tradition. This recipe unveils the secrets to its addictive texture—mahleb and nigella seeds—easily found in Middle Eastern grocery stores. Make two large or three smaller loaves of this incredibly delicious bread, perfect for sharing (or not!).

See Complete Recipe
Course Preparation Course Time To Make

Asiago Cheese Bread Excellent

This Asiago Cheese Bread is a crowd-pleaser! Effortlessly delicious, this recipe features a long, slow rise for maximum flavor and texture. Perfect as hors d'oeuvres with cheese spread or pâté, or as a stunning bruschetta base. Prepare to be amazed – this might just become your new favorite bread! A 3-cheese blend (Asiago, Parmesan, and Romano are suggested) adds extra richness.

See Complete Recipe
Holiday Event Bread Machine St Patricks Day Occasion

Authentic Irish Soda Bread Bread Machine

Bake the most incredible, authentic Irish soda bread in your bread machine this St. Patrick's Day! This recipe, adapted from "Rustic European Bread," delivers a deliciously crumbly loaf with a subtly sweet flavor. Impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Perfect for celebrations or a simple, satisfying treat.

See Complete Recipe
Healthy 4 Hours Or Less Rolls Biscuits Breads

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!

See Complete Recipe
Potluck Cakes Dietary Occasion

Babka Cinnamon Low Sugar Low Carbohydrate

Indulge in the delightful swirls of this low-sugar, low-carb cinnamon babka! This isn't your grandma's babka – it's a lighter, healthier take on a classic, perfect for those watching their sugar and carb intake. While it leans more towards a sweet bread than a yeast cake, the result is a deliciously moist and tender treat. Best enjoyed fresh, this recipe uses minimal fat, so plan to bake and devour it within a few days (or toast and butter leftover slices!). Note: Not all whole wheat flours are suitable; experiment to find one that works best.

See Complete Recipe
Small Appliance Bread Machine Kosher Breads

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!

See Complete Recipe
Occasion 4 Hours Or Less Course Easy

Barb's Cinnamon Rolls

Indulge in the irresistible aroma of homemade cinnamon rolls baking in your kitchen! This recipe boasts a sweet, soft dough that's incredibly easy to make. Get ready for fluffy, gooey, cinnamon-sugar perfection – a true crowd-pleaser for breakfast, brunch, or any sweet treat craving.

See Complete Recipe
Low In Something Vegetarian Italian Low In Something

Basic Cheese Pizza

Craving authentic New York-style pizza but disappointed by local options? This recipe is your solution! Developed over six years of perfecting the art of pizza-making after a move to Kansas City, this foolproof recipe delivers delicious, customizable pies every time. It's so simple, you can make it with your eyes closed! Start with this cheesy base, then get creative with your favorite toppings like Italian sausage, mushrooms, zucchini, or prosciutto for a healthy and flavorful twist. Get ready to experience pizza perfection!

See Complete Recipe
Course Equipment Time To Make Course

Belgian Waffles Texas Style

Experience the magic of the Texas State Fair with this recipe for irresistible Belgian Waffles! Fluffy, golden waffles topped with juicy, fresh strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar – a taste of Texas tradition in your kitchen. This recipe recreates the legendary State Fair treat, delivering that same out-of-this-world flavor you crave.

See Complete Recipe