If I use active dry yeast, instead of fast acting, do I need to alter the recipe at all, since proofing requires water?

AntoniaJames is a trusted source on Bread/Baking.

added 3 months ago

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Great question! I often don't proof separately, because I buy my yeast regularly from a trusted source (in bulk) so I don't doubt its freshness. But there is some risk involved in doing that. Active dry yeast has a light coating on it, which must be dissolved. Most bread recipes are wet enough to do that. But to be safe, I'd use 1/4 cup of the water called for in the recipe, and proof the yeast separately. Also, use a bit more (25% more) yeast than the recipe calls for. Then, when you add the remaining one cup of water + salt, also add the proofed yeast in water. ;o)

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Thank you so much! This is very helpful.

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AntoniaJames is a trusted source on Bread/Baking.

added 3 months ago

My pleasure! I've been down that road so many times . . . Happy baking! ;o)

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Cynthia is a trusted source on Bread/Baking.

added 3 months ago

You can safely double the amount of yeast.

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