How to Test the Activity of Yeast
Release time:
2025-11-21
New bakers often struggle with dough that won’t rise. Dough temperature, oil content, and salt amount can all affect how well and how fast dough ferments, while expired (or inactive) yeast is one of the most common reasons.
New bakers often struggle with dough that won’t rise. Dough temperature, oil content, and salt amount can all affect how well and how fast dough ferments, while expired (or inactive) yeast is one of the most common reasons. If your yeast has been stored for a while, here are simple ways to check if it’s still active:
1. Quick Foam Test
Mix the yeast into warm water. Wait 5-10 minutes. If lots of foam forms on top, the yeast is active and ready to use. If there’s little or no foam, it’s not very active - better not to use it.
2. Sugar Boost Test
Grab half a cup of warm water (about the same temperature as your finger). Add ½ teaspoon of sugar (this feeds the yeast) and stir until it dissolves. Then mix in some dry yeast, stir gently, and let it sit. If foam appears, the yeast is working.
3. How to Store Yeast Properly
Big packs: Keep unopened yeast at room temperature. Once opened, put it in an airtight jar and store it in the fridge (5℃ is best). Use it as soon as possible.
For home baking: Buy small packs of yeast. This way, it won’t sit around too long and lose its activity.
These are easy ways to check if the yeast is active. If your dough still doesn’t rise after the testing,the problem is probably something else.
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